THE Guyana Environment Initiative (GEI) hosted its two-day inaugural ‘Youth Environmental Ambassador’ training event at the Pegasus Hotel on July 7 and the National Park on July 8.
According to a press release, the training was one of several activities being executed by GEI as the implementing partner for Guyana under the United Nations Democracy Fund (UNDEF) project “Advancing Climate Democracy in Guyana, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago” to develop climate champions.

Similar trainings are being executed in partnering countries, Suriname and Trinidad. The project seeks to advance advocacy related to environmental and climate-related issues in the region.
With over 50 participants in attendance, the training sought to equip the youths with knowledge, skills, and materials to execute their new roles as environmental ambassadors.

The content covered during the two-day training included an introduction to environmental concepts, public speaking and presentation skills, pathways to being a youth ambassador, digital communication, the importance of wildlife, grey and green sea defence systems, environmental laws, careers related to the environmental field and the next steps towards climate action.
The participants benefitted from presentations and interactive activities, which were all delivered by young professionals from various fields, including environmental, legal, communications, public and private sectors, and international relations background.
Additionally, the young people had the opportunity of in-person interaction with the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr.

During the live interview session, the participants asked Ramson about his path to leadership as a young government minister.
During the session, Ramson urged the participants to continuously develop their talents, skills, and knowledge in order to reach their full potential and achieve their goals.

The founder of the organisation, Gomin Camacho, called on the youths to take their learning back to their communities and schools to share with others and execute meaningful action towards fostering sustainable environmental practices.
She urged that as Youth Environmental Ambassadors, they must lead by example and ensure their daily actions are geared toward creating a cleaner and healthier environment.

Notably, the participants, ranging from ages 13- 21, were representatives of the rich diversity of the country. Youths came from as far as Regions Five, Six and 10. Many more from Regions Three and Four were also in attendance.
At the end of the training, the participants shared their excitement and motivation to put what they had learned into action. They were extremely appreciative of the training.