In an era where climate change and environmental concerns dominate global discussions, the Green Youth Majlis stands out as a beacon of hope. This initiative, spearheaded by the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD), is not just another program; it’s a movement to empower young leaders to tackle environmental challenges. In line with the International Youth Day theme of fostering youth involvement in sustainable development, the Green Youth Majlis has unveiled its Youth Committee structure for 2024-2025, signalling a new chapter in environmental leadership.
Introducing the Youth Committee Leaders
The newly elected leaders are set to take the reins and drive the EAD’s mission forward. Ahmed Al Shaibah, a veteran member since 2015, will serve as the Main Youth Advisor, bringing a wealth of experience and dedication. Majid bin Saad, renowned for his exemplary contributions last year, has been chosen as the Youth Advisor of the Youth Committee. Dana Al Dhaen, whose unwavering passion for environmental issues has been evident over the years, will assume the role of President. Joining her is Moza Salem Al Harrasi, an active environmentalist who will serve as Vice President. The Climate Change Main Committee will be led by Merah Alhefeiti, a well-versed expert in climate matters, while the Biodiversity Committee will be headed by Maithah Alhefeiti, known for her active participation in environmental initiatives.
A Diverse Committee with a Singular Vision
The committee’s structure reflects diverse skills and passions, with each member bringing something unique to the table. Maryam Al Ansari, an adept communicator, will lead the Communications team. Saif Al Ameri, the youth champion, will spearhead the Recycling Committee, focusing on waste reduction and recycling initiatives. Finally, Omar Al Hashemi, a passionate young member, will take on the role of Excellence Leader, striving to enhance the overall effectiveness of the Green Youth Majlis.
Engaging the Community for a Sustainable Future
The Green Youth Majlis isn’t just about leadership roles; it’s about community engagement and fostering a culture of sustainability among the youth. The committee members will be instrumental in organizing environmental campaigns, encouraging community participation, and launching innovative projects to address pressing environmental issues. Their activities are designed to align with the broader goals of the EAD, focusing on promoting environmental sustainability and climate action.
The Vision of the Green Youth Majlis
Rasha Ali Al Madfai, the Acting Director of the Environmental Awareness Department at EAD, emphasized the pivotal role of the Green Youth Majlis. “The Green Youth Majlis reinforces our commitment to educate and encourage young people to take environmental action. The new Youth Committee members have displayed passion, enthusiasm, and excitement, steering us in a successful direction. Their support has been pivotal in advancing key environmental strategies, such as implementing the UN Decade on ecosystem restoration and various citizen science initiatives. We are proud of the Green Youth Majlis’s achievements and look forward to future successes and impactful initiatives that they will undoubtedly lead,” she said.
A Platform for Youth Empowerment
For the Green Youth Majlis members, this initiative is more than just a platform for environmental action; it’s a space for personal and professional growth. As Majid bin Saad, the Youth Advisor, puts it, “I am honoured to embark on a new journey with the Green Youth Majlis, where I am serving as Youth Advisor this year. My re-election has encouraged me to continue advocating for a sustainable future for our generation and others. I’m excited to work alongside a dedicated and inspiring group of individuals as we strive to positively impact our planet’s future.”
Harnessing Local Insights for Global Impact
The committee members are not just focused on local challenges but also on the bigger picture. Dana Al Dhaen, the President, highlights the importance of leveraging local insights for global impact. “Creating sustainable solutions inspired by the surrounding environment will safeguard our future. We can develop innovative strategies that address pressing environmental challenges by drawing upon our region’s natural resources, ecological insights, and unique environmental contexts. These solutions will enhance our climate change resilience and ensure that we maintain the delicate balance of our ecosystems for generations to come. It is through this deep connection to our environment and a commitment to sustainable practices that we will forge a path towards a more secure and thriving future,” she says.
The Reach and Impact of the Green Youth Majlis
With over 650 members aged 18-35, the Green Youth Majlis convenes every quarter, fostering open dialogue and proactive learning. Since its inception, the initiative has seen 232 members dedicate over 970 hours across more than 60 events, ranging from beach cleanups in Abu Dhabi to informative sessions on single-use plastics. These efforts underscore the Majlis’s commitment to nurturing a new generation of environmentally conscious citizens.
A Call to Action for a Sustainable Future
The Green Youth Majlis is more than a committee; it’s a call to action for the youth of Abu Dhabi and beyond. Under the umbrella of EAD’s naha platform, the initiative seeks to transform climate intentions into tangible actions, engaging youth and community members in activities that drive sustainable outcomes.
