On June 21 2024, the Coral Triangle Center (CTC) hosted the Bali Youth Environmental Conference in collaboration with the Green School Foundation, creating a vibrant platform for youth leadership in environmental conservation. This conference was a significant step in empowering young changemakers from across Bali to address the pressing environmental challenges facing our planet.

The Bali Youth Environmental Conference brought together passionate youth leaders to engage in dynamic discussions, workshops, and collaborative projects. The event aimed to explore sustainable solutions and raise awareness about critical environmental issues. Participants had the opportunity to connect with like-minded peers and share their innovative ideas and projects focused on creating a sustainable future.

The conference kicked off with an inspiring opening ceremony, where the importance of youth involvement in environmental conservation was highlighted. This set the tone for a series of engaging sessions that followed. Workshops covered a range of topics, including waste management, renewable energy, and biodiversity conservation. Participants were encouraged to think critically about these issues and brainstorm practical solutions that could be implemented in their communities.

A highlight of the conference was the presence of distinguished speakers and panelists, including Sri Auditya Sari, Joseph Wijaya, Ni Wayan Purnami Rusadi, Duhitta Hayyuardhini, Kristina Komala, and I Gede Oka Adnyana Nathanjaya. These visionaries shared their expertise and insights, inspiring participants to embrace their roles for positive change in environmental stewardship. Their presentations covered a wide array of topics, from sustainable development practices to the role of youth in driving environmental policies.

The interactive panel discussions allowed participants to ask questions and engage directly with these experts, fostering a deeper understanding of the complexities of environmental issues and the various ways to address them. The speakers emphasized the power of collective action and the importance of youth leadership in creating a resilient and environmentally conscious society.

One of the most exciting aspects of the conference was the showcase of innovative projects and initiatives led by the youth participants. These projects demonstrated the creativity and commitment of young people to environmental conservation. From community recycling programs to sustainable agriculture initiatives, the showcased projects provided tangible examples of how youth can make a significant impact.

The conference also included collaborative project sessions, where participants worked together to develop new ideas and strategies for addressing local environmental challenges. These sessions emphasized the importance of teamwork and the sharing of diverse perspectives in finding effective solutions.

The Bali Youth Environmental Conference emphasized the important role of young people in shaping a sustainable future. The event highlighted the power of collaboration and collective action in addressing environmental challenges. By providing a platform for youth to voice their ideas and connect with experienced leaders, the conference empowered participants to take on active roles in environmental stewardship.

The success of this conference is a testament to the potential of youth to drive positive change. The Coral Triangle Center remains committed to supporting and nurturing young environmental leaders through future initiatives and events. By fostering a community of informed and motivated youth, CTC aims to contribute to the creation of a more sustainable and resilient world.

Writer: Emma DeBenedictis
Photos: Green School Foundation