New Youth Council to Provide Key Input, Guidance on Climate Change

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The Climate Equity Collaborative (CEC), a public-private partnership co-founded by the National Wildlife Federation, has formed the inaugural Youth Advisory Council to help engage nontraditional partners - like youth and underserved communities - in climate action and innovation. The council, made up of 14 individuals ranging from 19 to 28 years old, will play a crucial role in shaping the immediate and near-term strategies and activities of the CEC.

"The inauguration of the Youth Advisory Council marks a pivotal milestone in our commitment to fostering a youth-centric approach," said Marley Hauser, senior coordinator at the Climate Equity Collaborative. "This dynamic cohort, committed to driving meaningful change in our world, embodies a wealth of diverse perspectives and insights that will prove invaluable in guiding CEC's strategies and actions moving forward. We extend our heartfelt appreciation for their dedication, passion, and expertise in shaping a more equitable and just future for all."

"Joining the Youth Advisory Council will allow me to use my experience to build inclusive and equitable climate solutions through a youth-driven approach," said Alexa White, CEC Youth Advisory Council Mentor. "I'm excited to collaborate with young leaders to share ideas and strategies to ensure CEC's initiatives represent and meet the needs of all climate change-affected communities."

The following representatives have been welcomed as part of the 2024 Youth Advisory Council:

• Camryn Burke - Duluth, Georgia
• Carmen Berry - San Diego, California
• David Duncan - Los Angeles, California
• Saee Gunjal - Columbus, Ohio
• Lauren Hamilton-Musso - Amsterdam, New York
• Brittany Judson* - Atlanta, Georgia
• Hennessy Martinez* - Los Angeles, California
• Savannah Padilla - Denver, Colorado
• Anna Peach - Iowa City, Iowa
• Tatum Register - New Orleans, Louisiana
• Victoria Wang - Los Gatos, California
• Rachel Warner - New York City, New York
• Alexa White* - Ann Arbour, Michigan
• Zachary Zeller* - Jacksonville, Florida

*Denotes Youth Advisory Council Mentors

2024 council members bring diverse knowledge and experiences to CEC. Throughout their early careers, Youth Advisory Council participants have advocated for community-based solar projects, engaged with urban green space restoration, researched sustainable agriculture methods, and liaised in federal policy climate spaces, among other projects. Four members - White, Judson, Martinez, and Zeller - will serve as official mentors on the council, providing critical sources of information and guidance for other participants throughout the council's term.