Unlocking Environmental Leadership: A Call to North American Youth

A New Dawn for Young Environmental Leaders

The Commission for Environmental Cooperation (CEC) has recently opened its doors wide for the North American youth, particularly those aged 18 to 35, inviting them to take an active role in environmental stewardship through the Generation of Environmental Leaders Program (GELP). This initiative aims to empower young leaders in Canada, Mexico, and the United States, enabling them to advocate for their communities while addressing pressing environmental challenges.

This second edition of the GELP grants participants access to essential resources, including C$15,000 in seed funding for their projects, a year-long mentoring program, and the opportunity to present their innovations to key environmental decision-makers during CEC's annual Council Session scheduled for the summer of 2025.

What the Program Offers

Selected candidates will embark on an enriching journey filled with networking opportunities and mentorship aimed at honing their skills in project management, budgeting, and outreach. Participants will work with industry experts, gaining guidance on how to effectively pitch their ideas and develop their projects to ensure meaningful community engagement.

Feedback from past participants highlights tremendous personal growth. Alexandre Savard from Canada shared, "The mentorship provided by the GELP has greatly helped me grow as a person and has made me feel more comfortable stepping out of my comfort zone." His sentiments echo those of many who have embarked on this journey, demonstrating the program’s impact beyond just financial support.

Ana Cristina Posadas García, representing a restoration project in Mexico, expressed gratitude for how the seed funding initiated critical activities for environmental management and conservation, indicating how financial support translates into real-world change. In the United States, McKenna Dunbar and Jake Barnet noted how their interaction with diverse individuals and organizations motivated them to be champions for justice in the climate space.

Accentuating Youth Leadership

The GELP framework is not merely about financial aid; it’s a catalyst for establishing a robust network of young environmental advocates. By enhancing community engagement, participants can implement sustainable solutions tailored to their local contexts. The program stipulates that applicants must propose practical strategies capable of addressing environmental issues within their communities—fostering collaboration among diverse youth groups and communities typically excluded from decision-making processes.

How to Get Involved

Prospective participants must ensure their submissions clearly articulate how their solutions will address critical community environmental issues. The guidelines emphasize clarity in objectives and the feasibility of proposed projects over a broad array of factors, including potential impact and innovation. The deadline for applications is set for January 12, 2025, by 11:59 PM local time.

CEC will host a virtual information session on December 17, 2024, to assist applicants in understanding the program's intricacies. This event will include simultaneous interpretation in English, French, and Spanish, ensuring accessibility across the region.

In conclusion, the Generation of Environmental Leaders Program stands as a beacon of hope, encouraging North America's youth to forge paths towards environmental integrity and sustainability. With mentorship, funding, and a supportive network, this initiative is more than just a program; it is a movement towards a greener, more equitable future. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur, activist, or simply passionate about the environment, this is your chance to make a difference. Join in and be part of something monumental for your community and the planet!

For those interested in becoming part of a dynamic network of changemakers, click here to learn more about the program, submission guidelines, and application procedures.

— Patrick Tonissen, CEC Head of Communications