On October 17, 2025, students from JCU had the opportunity to participate in a dynamic simulation event organized by ProVeg International, a global NGO committed to raising awareness of sustainable food systems. The event featured two panels focused on youth participation in environmental policy.
The first panel introduced YPARD (Young Professionals for Agricultural Development), a global network that empowers young professionals to advocate for the sustainable transformation of agri-food systems. YPARD’s Policy Program Coordinator, Edoardo Corriere, presented the organization’s mission and structure, its regional chapters and the many opportunities available for youth engagement. He encouraged students to consider joining as volunteers, emphasizing the importance of grassroots involvement and international collaboration in shaping the future of food systems.
The second speaker, Axel Eriksson, an environmental justice advocate and member of the UN Secretary-General’s Youth Advisory Group on Climate Change (YAG), delivered an inspiring talk on the role of youth in environmental advocacy. “Young people must be persistent, curious, and deeply committed to the issues they care about,” said Eriksson. “Achievements take time, but they are worth the effort.”
Following the presentations, students took part in a simulation of the Conference of the Parties to the Paris Agreement. They were divided into negotiation blocs representing the European Union, the African Group, the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS), the Umbrella Group, G77+China, the Presidency, and NGOs. Each group worked on negotiating a joint agreement aimed at enhancing ambition for agricultural methane mitigation. This simulation offered a hands-on experience in international climate diplomacy, allowing students to grapple with the complexities of multilateral negotiations and the challenge of balancing national interests with global environmental goals.
Catalina Zaza, a graduate student in the International Affairs MA program, shared her highlights of the experience: “This event deepened my understanding of climate diplomacy and the role of youth in shaping policies for change. It also strengthened my interest in agri-food systems and grassroots engagement as key levers for sustainability. I left feeling more equipped to contribute meaningfully to international climate initiatives.”
JCU student Nina Schaeffer shared: “The event hosted by ProVeg was both enlightening and fun! It showed the incredible feats that young people are taking to make positive changes through agricultural advancements and knowledge transfer. The speakers were encouraging and really gave us the hope that, even though it is an uphill battle and change is very slow, we still can make a difference. It is extra important in the current climate that we hear these messages and keep pushing for optimism.”
Learn more about Sustainability at JCU.
