Registration Opens For Youth Climate Summit
The Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute [BUEI] is excited to announce that registration is now open for the Island’s milestone 5th Annual Youth Climate Summit, taking place November 17-22, 2025.
A spokesperson said, “This week-long event for students ages 13-22 engages and educates young people on global climate issues and serves as the foundation for a year of youth-led activities focused on local climate matters.
“Registration is open through October 22 at www.ycsbda.com.
A Milestone Year of Climate Leadership
“As the Youth Climate Summit [YCS] marks its fifth year, the programme has grown into Bermuda’s premier platform for youth environmental engagement and leadership development. Since 2021, YCS has welcomed more than 150 young Bermudians annually, bringing together students from across the island’s public and private schools to engage with local and global climate and environmental experts, leaders and young activists.”
“Five years ago, BUEI set out to create a platform where Bermuda’s young people could find their voice on climate action,” said Traci Burgess, BUEI CEO. “What we’ve built together— with our incredible partners and participants—has exceeded our hopes. YCS is not just an event, it’s an opportunity for Bermuda’s youth to learn directly from global experts, to be inspired, and to join a growing community of young people committed to protecting our planet.”
Opening with The Hip Hop Scientist
The spokesperson said, “This year’s Summit kicks off with an electrifying opening session featuring Maynard Okereke, MD, known globally as ‘The Hip Hop Scientist’. Dr. Okereke brings a unique blend of science education and hip-hop culture that engages young audiences on critical environmental issues. His dynamic presentation style has inspired youth around the world to see themselves as scientists and environmental leaders.
New Partnership Expands Opportunities
“For the first time, YCS has partnered with the United Nations Development Programme [UNDP] Multi Country Office in Jamaica, significantly expanding the Summit’s Caribbean reach and impact. This collaboration brings exciting new programming, including an exclusive ‘Green Jobs of the Future’ masterclass panel for YCS alumni, featuring career pathways in the growing green economy.”
“BUEI is both honoured and elated to expand YCS throughout the Caribbean and connect like-minded young people, many of whom face similar climate challenges living in small island nations that are on the front lines of battling climate change,” said Traci Burgess, BUEI CEO. “This significant collaboration provides greater opportunities for youth from Bermuda and around the region to connect, educate and inspire each other.”
Special Alumni Programming
The spokesperson said, “This milestone year includes enhanced programming for YCS alumni, recognising the growing community of young climate leaders who continue their engagement beyond their initial experiences during the week-long Summit event in November. In addition to the UNDP green jobs panel, alumni will participate in exclusive environmental education deep-dive sessions and contribute to developing a youth-driven climate action declaration.
Continued Support from Valued Partners
“BUEI’s Youth Climate Summit maintains strong support from its corporate and NGO partners who have remained committed since the programme’s inception. Founding Partners AXA XL and HSBC Bermuda continue to champion young people pursuing systemic climate solutions, contributing knowledge, expertise and resources alongside financial support.
“Visionary Partners Aspen Bermuda, Renaissance Re, and Deloitte, along with Inspire Partners Conduit Re, Chubb, and Neuberger Berman, continue their support of this vital programme.
A Call to Action
“Parents, educators and community leaders: we need your help identifying and encouraging the young people in your lives to participate in this transformative experience. Whether they’re already passionate about environmental issues or just beginning to explore climate concerns, YCS provides the tools, knowledge and networks to turn interest into meaningful action.”
“As hurricanes increase in size and frequency, and ocean temperatures and sea levels continue rising, Bermuda is by no means free from the threats of climate change,” said Ms. Burgess. “The ocean regulates climate and Bermuda, with our tiny 21-square miles in the middle of the deep blue Atlantic Ocean, is at just as much risk of the negative impacts from climate change as anywhere else in the world. Our unique biodiversity, delicate eco-systems and geographical positioning, combined with an abundance of professional experience in fields like re/insurance and finance, places Bermuda in a prime position to continue leading on climate initiatives, thus resulting in a greater impact on the environment and all life above and below water. The Youth Climate Summit is one of the lasting ways to achieve these objectives.”
The spokesperson said, “Throughout the week, students ages 13-22 will connect with subject matter experts and youth activists in areas related to Conservation, Sustainability, and Climate Justice. Most importantly, YCS equips students with a voice and provides the necessary tools for young people to act with intention and a sense of hope that their efforts are contributing to real and positive changes.
Register Now
“Registration for the 5th Annual Youth Climate Summit is open through October 22, 2025. Space is limited. Register at www.ycsbda.com.
“For more information about the 2025 Youth Climate Summit, visit www.YCSBDA.com.”
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Category: All, Environment
