FROM AROUND THE WORLD
OFQ : What are the biggest challenges for youth in climate action? SU: One of the significant challenges in climate activism is finding a balance between your advocacy work and your personal life, which includes earning an income, living with family and planning for your future. Realistically, not everyone has the opportunity to work on climate activism full-time with financial support. In reality, it often requires juggling both aspects: being an activist and building a life for yourself. Another challenge in the climate field, in general, is dealing with frustration. Many individuals witness the environmental issues first-hand and experience anxiety, pressure and, at times, a sense of hopelessness. These emotions can be particularly risky for young activists. It’s essential to prioritize self-care, seek support within your community and celebrate small wins to stay motivated and resilient. OFQ : So climate change is a ff ecting the mental health of youth worldwide? SU: Climate anxiety is real and many young individuals experience feelings of depression, anxiety and disappointment due to the environmental challenges they witness. Studies have even demonstrated how prolonged exposure to heatwaves can impact people’s mental health. This issue isn’t exclusive to youth; it a ff ects local communities, leading to a rise in cases seen in hospitals. As a medical doctor, I can attest to this. Therefore, building a strong support system is crucial. Surrounding
PROFILE: SAAD UAKKAS Saad Uakkas, 27, is a Moroccan youth engagement and empowerment expert especially in health and climate issues. He is the Program Coordinator of the COP28 Children and Youth Pavilion, Regional Coordinator for North Africa of the African Youth Initiative on Climate Change (AYICC) and Youth Advisory Board member of the Red Cross Red Crescent Climate Centre.
news consumption and in times of disaster, like the earthquake in Morocco in early September, focus on taking action. Maintain a positive mindset and remember that while you can’t solve all the world’s problems, you can stay dedicated to your own meaningful goals. Stay focused and keep moving forward while not losing sight of the bigger picture. OFQ : What in your opinion is needed to elevate meaningful youth engagement for climate action? SU: We, as young people, must come together and collaborate, supporting one another—this is our first imperative. We also require advocates, whether they be adults, mentors or allies, to join forces with us. These supporters can come from various sources, including agencies and di ff erent groups that align with our cause—a vital aspect of our mission.
E ff ective communication is paramount. Engaging with media influencers and community leaders, and leveraging these communication channels to amplify our voices and reach the right audiences, holds great importance. Furthermore, the power of exchange cannot be overstated, whether it happens on a national or global scale. Sharing best practices, experiences and opportunities allows us to grow and learn collectively, identifying solutions that benefit us all. OFQ : Anything you would still like to add? SU: The climate battle is a long-term one. We may never completely solve it, but the key is to consistently play our part, enjoy the process, learn from our journey, and prioritize self-care. Everyone has a role to play. You don’t have to commit to it full-time; but every small contribution counts.
yourself with friends, colleagues and supportive family members is
essential. Collaborating with others to stay motivated is key. Celebrate small achievements, take breaks from constant
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