Empowering Youth: Highlights from the International Student Energy Summit in the Amazon

The International Student Energy Summit (SES), hosted by BE OPEN in collaboration with Student Energy, has made a remarkable impact during its recent event held from February 18 to 21, 2026, in Manaus, Brazil, nestled in the heart of the Amazon rainforest. Known as the world's largest and most diverse energy gathering for young minds, this summit gathered emerging leaders from around the globe to accelerate the pace of just energy transitions.

The Significance of the Summit

The SES serves as a unique platform where passionate changemakers unite with industry experts, policymakers, and private sector representatives to discuss and develop solutions addressing critical energy issues. The attendees engaged in in-depth discussions about the challenges faced by vulnerable communities worldwide, sharing innovative ideas and collaborative strategies.

BE OPEN, the driving force behind this initiative, has continuously emphasized the importance of harnessing youth-led initiatives to influence communities positively and create sustainable change. The founder, Elena Baturina, expressed her pride in the summit's recognition among peers, highlighting the significant contributions made towards sustainable energy solutions, irrespective of which UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) they aim to address.

Student Engagement and Innovation

At the summit, BE OPEN encouraged delegates to participate in the foundation's annual competition, inviting students and graduates to contribute solutions to pressing global issues outlined in the SDGs. With six concluded competitions and one ongoing, BE OPEN actively supports and rewards young creatives for developing innovative solutions that can transform inadequate systems into models of sustainability and growth.

Celebrating Achievements

This event was not the first collaboration between BE OPEN and SES. In 2023, they partnered for the inaugural summit at New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD), attracting 650 passionate youths from over 100 countries. Among the attendees were four winners of the BE OPEN competition, “Better Energy by Design,” whose participation was part of their reward for exceptional contributions to energy solutions.

Future Aspirations

Elena Baturina reaffirms the mission of providing young people with the networks and skills to tackle real-world energy and climate challenges. "Empowering them to step into leadership roles within the energy sector, by offering platforms for discussions and exchanging ideas, is the true way forward," she states. This reiteration of commitment highlights BE OPEN's dedication to promoting a sustainable future led by today’s youth.

Conclusion

The International Student Energy Summit in the Amazon not only showcased the talent and determination of young leaders but also reiterated the necessity of unity and collaboration among diverse sectors to address the energy crisis. As the summit ended, it left participants with a renewed sense of purpose and optimism, poised to make a difference in the energy landscape and beyond.