51Talk Empowers Youth to Voice Climate Concerns at COP30 in Brazil
51Talk Empowers Youth at COP30 in Brazil
In an inspiring move towards fostering global dialogue on climate change, 51Talk, an innovative online English education platform, brought young voices from the Middle East and Southeast Asia to the forefront at the United Nations COP30 climate conference held in Belém, Brazil.
The COP30 event, taking place from November 15 to 21, 2025, showcased the initiative known as GreenTalk Speak for Future. This program aims to provide young learners, aged 3 to 15, with a platform to express their perspectives on climate change and environmental protection. Since its launch in 2023, this initiative has successfully engaged participants from countries including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Turkey, Thailand, and Vietnam, highlighting the unique experiences and observations of youth regarding the climate crisis.
Bridging Education and Global Issues
Through tailored training and the opportunity to speak on such a significant international stage, these children were able to bring local insights into a global forum. Their speeches not only highlighted how climate challenges affect their communities but also introduced creative solutions to these pressing issues. The program emphasizes that learning English is not just an academic exercise; it's a vital tool for participating in global conversations about the future of the planet.
As part of the COP30 program, attendees engaged in various activities, such as exploring the Brazilian rainforest and participating in local cultural events. This hands-on experience provided deeper insights into biodiversity and sustainability practices, thus bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world environmental issues.
CEO of 51Talk, Jack Huang, expressed his belief that every child should have the opportunity to speak to the world. Through various instructional strategies, including one-on-one sessions and interactive speaking exercises, children gain confidence in expressing their thoughts and engaging with complex global issues.
Student Highlights
Among the young representatives was twelve-year-old Osman Batu from Türkiye. Osman’s journey began with strong family support, allowing him to learn English from a young age. His dedication culminated in being selected to represent his nation after a rigorous multi-stage process that included submitting a video and competing against peers in Istanbul.
At COP30, Osman shared his poignant observations on climate change, discussing concerns like the wildfires in Türkiye and the shrinking butterfly populations in his grandmother’s garden. His proposed solutions included the establishment of student-led Climate Labs and the creation of “Climate Roofs” equipped with solar panels and green spaces, embodying the spirit of innovation and responsibility that younger generations are prepared to rise to.
Osman’s speech not only impressed attendees but also attracted media interest, showcasing his fluency in English and ability to communicate effectively about critical issues. For him, speaking on such a prestigious platform was a transformative experience that reinforced his commitment to learning and engaging with global challenges.
The Road Ahead
This initiative by 51Talk is more than just an educational program; it aims to empower children to find their voices and engage in significant conversations about the future of the planet. The determination and insights of these young learners underscore the urgent need for youth involvement in climate action and sustainability discussions.
51Talk is dedicated to creating a nurturing education environment where children can thrive in their English learning journey. Such initiatives not only prepare them linguistically but also instill the confidence needed to advocate for their rights and opinions on the world stage.
The success of the GreenTalk Speak for Future initiative exemplifies how innovative educational platforms can galvanize young people, ensuring their perspectives are included in global dialogues on critical issues like climate change. Interested individuals can explore more about 51Talk through their website or download the app to begin their journey of language learning and global engagement.