The Origin Of YouthClimate Connect
Amid a rapidly changing world, where Climate & environmental challenges loom large and the voices of youth cry out for change, the journey of YouthClimate Connect (YCC) began. It was a journey fueled by passion, determination, and a shared commitment to make a difference.
The story of YCC traces back to the early experiences of our co-founders, each driven by their own unique connection to the environment. Abdelslam Taha, inspired by his childhood in western Sudan, where he grew up in harmony with nature, embarked on a mission to protect the environment and empower young minds.
In 2023, Abdelslam participated in the Freshwater and Community Conservation Externship with Paragon One (Currently Known as Extern), supported by the National Geographic Society and the Nature Conservancy.
Roots of Passion and Purpose
Completing the externship in April, Abdelslam received seed funding from NGS+ TNC for his project: the Freshwater Awareness and Community Conservation program for Sudanese students in Egypt (FWAC Program). The program, successfully implemented in September 2023, brought together young minds to tackle pressing Climate & environmental issues.
It was during the FWAC Program that Abdelslam crossed paths with Ibrahim, a passionate participant whose dedication and enthusiasm mirrored his own. Their post-program discussions sparked a realization - the climate crisis knew no borders, and its impacts were felt far and wide. This experience ignited a spark within him, leading to the inception of YCC.
Uniting for a Common Cause
Joined by co-founders Ibrahim, Zeena, Isha, Monib, and Chretianne from Sudan, Canada, India, and USA respectively, YCC was born out of a shared vision to mobilize youth, raise awareness, and drive meaningful change. With a focus on the global south, where the impacts of climate change are most acutely felt, YCC leveraged technology and social media to amplify its message and engage a global audience.
And so, with six co-founders from diverse backgrounds - Abdelslam, Zeena, Ibrahim, Isha, Monib, and Chretianne - YouthClimate Connect (YCC) was born. Together, they embarked on a mission to mobilize youth, raise awareness, and drive meaningful change. From the outset, YCC set its sights on the global south, where the impacts of climate change were most keenly felt. With a firm belief in the power of technology to connect and educate, the team leveraged social media to amplify their message and reach a global audience
Amplifying the Voice of Youth
But YCC was more than just an online platform - it was a community, a family of like minded individuals united by a common purpose. Together, they worked tirelessly to develop educational programs, empower young leaders, and host their annual Global Summit.
As YCC grew, so did its impact. From hosting virtual events to launching educational campaigns, the organization was making waves in the fight against climate change. But the journey was far from over - there were still mountains to climb, challenges to overcome, and victories to celebrate.
A Continuing Journey of Impact and Empowerment
Now, as YCC continues to grow and evolve, its founders remain steadfast in their commitment to creating a more sustainable future. With each new initiative, each new partnership, they move one step closer to their goal: a world where young people are empowered to lead the charge in combating climate change.
Join us on our journey as we write the next chapter in the story of YouthClimate Connect - a story of hope, resilience, and the unwavering belief that together, we can create a better world.
