Rhode Island teenagers will gather at Roger Williams Park Zoo on Nov. 8 for a daylong climate action conference designed to empower young leaders to tackle environmental challenges in their communities.
The Rhode Island Youth Climate Conference, hosted by the Rhode Island Environmental Education Association, will run from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and is open to participants ages 14-18.
The free event will feature hands-on climate science activities, skill-building workshops, and interactive sessions led by young professionals in environmental education, advocacy, and the arts. Youth will attend in teams of three to six, accompanied by an adult mentor.
“This immersive experience is perfect for young people who are ready to take action on the issues that matter most,” said Jeanine Silversmith, RIEEA executive director. “Whether they’re passionate or just curious about climate change, this is a chance to grow as leaders and join a statewide network of young changemakers.”
Featured speakers include AGonza, an artist, educator and community leader; Chris Gaynor, community engagement specialist at the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management; Kait Birghenthal, president and project coordinator at NNOCCI; and Sarah “SJ” Jennings, CEO and founder of Halcyon Education LLC.
Teams will develop Climate Action Plans tailored to their communities and can apply for funding and support after the conference to implement their ideas.
Registration is open through 5:30 p.m. on Nov. 3 at www.rieea.org/programs/youth-leadership. Space is limited.
