Mentorship is necessary in today’s job market and key for driving innovation, career development, and access to professional opportunities. However, many young professionals struggle to secure mentorship, a critical missing piece from their professional development. 

According to Forbes, 76% of people think mentorship is vital to early-stage professional success, but only 37% have a mentor. Inequitable opportunities,  lack of experience, and restraints caused by the COVID-19 pandemic have made securing employment for youth more dependent on networking and privileged social capital. This creates greater exclusivity in the workforce, given systemic issues that lead to inequitable opportunities in networks and education. 

Companies and organizations benefit greatly when they provide support to young professionals and build leadership skills at every stage of their careers. Mentorship enhances the development of soft and technical skills critical to employment, and encourages diversity to create a well-rounded team, improving team dynamics.

Since 2009, Student Energy has worked with over 50,000 young people from more than 120 countries, empowering them with the skills, knowledge, and connections they need to lead the energy transition. Mentorship is a cornerstone of this mission – by connecting mentees with experienced professionals, we ensure our global youth network gains access to tailored guidance for their unique projects and challenges, practical advice on navigating the climate and energy fields, and the opportunity to learn directly from leaders in the industry. 

What are the Mentorship Models?

Student Energy will offer three streams of mentorship for a flexible commitment from mentors and mentees:

1. Flash Mentorship: 1 x 1-hour mentorship session every 1-3 months focused on gathering necessary information, securing connections, or learning a skill. Flash mentorship will likely occur with a different mentee each session. 
2. Project & Career Development: Monthly, 1-hour recurring meetings supporting a team project or advising on career goals and professional development. 
3. Committed Mentorship: Weekly or bi-weekly meetings building a solid mentorship relationship, supporting a team project through completion, or young professionals through their early stage career development. 

Commitment levels can change throughout the cycle, and the change can be agreed upon by the mentor and the mentee.

How the Mentor Matching Process Works

• Mentor Registration: Bloomberg staff interested in becoming mentors must complete the Mentor Registration Form (linked below). All staff who apply are added to our database designed to help us create mentor matches. We may contact you anytime between March and December 2025 about mentor matching with our program participants.

• Mentor Requests: The Student Energy community can submit a detailed mentorship request form outlining their goals and areas where they are seeking support. 
• Matching and Introduction: Student Energy will review and screen all requests, and facilitate the matching process. Matches will be made based on your skills and experiences and the mentee’s needs. Once a match is made, we will introduce you to the mentee via email, and we will help schedule and facilitate the initial meeting

Why become a Student Energy Mentor?

By registering as a Student Energy Mentor, you will:

• Provide guidance to youth-led projects, professional development, and career exploration.
• Connect with a global community of innovative youth and professionals dedicated to addressing challenges in the energy transition.
• Strengthen your coaching and mentorship abilities while making a meaningful impact.
• Plan an active role in shaping the workforce of tomorrow and driving the sustainable energy transition forward.

This is a great opportunity to inspire, engage, and innovate alongside the next generation of energy leaders.

This is your opportunity to play a direct role in shaping the future of energy. By becoming a mentor, you’ll directly contribute to youth-led solutions and gain unparalleled access to a network of passionate, forward-thinking young leaders.

Become a Student Energy Mentor Today

Becoming a Student Mentor is an easy process. Simply complete the Mentor Registration Form below and we will follow up with you with for more details and possible mentees to work with.

APPLY NOW

If you have any questions about Student Energy Mentorship, please contact us at mentorship@studentenergy.org.

In celebration of Student Energy’s 15th anniversary, we interviewed Executive Director Helen Watts to reminisce on Student Energy’s 15 years of progress and what’s next for our burgeoning youth-empowerment and clean energy charity. We also had the opportunity to catch up with Janice Tran and Kali Taylor, two of Student Energy’s founding members, to reflect on their time with Student Energy and how this organization helped them excel in the energy industry.

The Birth of a Movement

Student Energy was established during a time when the global conversation around climate change was in its early stages. The organization’s founders, including Taylor and Tran, recognized the need to connect energy systems with environmental challenges and saw young people as critical drivers of this transformation. As Taylor recalls, the idea for the first “International Student Energy Summit” in 2009 was born out of a desire to create a space where youth could engage meaningfully in energy discussions. The overwhelming response from young people worldwide led to the formal creation of Student Energy.

“The idea for clean energy is born over 15 years ago. It was a recognition that the impacts of climate change was going to be the greatest for young people and the students were in a unique position to change it and become the leaders that the world needs.”

Janice Tran

At its core, Student Energy’s mission has been twofold: to address the climate emergency by transforming energy systems and to empower young people to take the lead in this transformation. From the outset, the organization has emphasized youth empowerment, recognizing that young leaders, with their creativity and passion, have the potential to drive innovative solutions. Many early members, like Tran, did not come from energy backgrounds but were united by their desire to make a difference. As she reflects, “It really was just a leap of faith… and the rest is history.”

Student Energy’s Growth and Evolution

From its humble beginnings, Student Energy has grown into a global organization with over 30 full-time staff and a presence in numerous countries. Helen Watts, Executive Director of Student Energy, recalls the early days when the organization operated more like a startup, with only a few staff members juggling multiple roles. “We were chasing opportunities, always on the lookout for new funding,” she explains. Today, the organization no longer has to ask for permission to be part of critical energy discussions—now, it is invited to the table.

“Student Energy has had such a massive impact on me, both personally and professionally… it’s taught me the importance of putting those big visions out there and going for them. It’s the only way we’re going to make change.”

Kali Taylor

The organization’s growth has also allowed it to focus more on long-term strategic planning. With a dedicated and expanding team, Student Energy has been able to develop programs that directly respond to the needs of young people worldwide. Watts highlights that the organization has shifted from merely surviving to thriving, allowing it to proactively create opportunities for youth to engage in the energy transition.

Empowering Youth to Tackle the Climate Emergency

Central to Student Energy’s mission is the belief that young people are key to addressing the climate emergency. Youth are disproportionately affected by decisions made today regarding energy systems, climate policies, and sustainability efforts. Yet, as Watts points out, young people are often excluded from decision-making processes. “Young people…are provided with very little agency to have decision-making power,” she notes, emphasizing the need for intergenerational equity.

 “Young people are often disregarded or thought of as disruptors who don’t understand what’s going on…even though these decisions will impact their lives more than older generations.”

Helen Watts

Student Energy has made it a priority to ensure that youth voices are not only heard but are given real influence in shaping the future of energy. The organization advocates for an energy transition that is not only sustainable but also equitable, ensuring that communities worldwide are supported and that no one is left behind.

Building a Global Network and Impact

One of Student Energy’s most significant achievements is its ability to build a global community of young leaders. Through its various programs, the organization has connected youth from different regions, providing them with the knowledge, tools, and networks needed to create change in their communities. Watts emphasizes that this sense of community is one of the organization’s most powerful assets, noting that “there is such a sense of family, kinship, and camaraderie” among those involved.

“Here we are 15 years later, seeing some of those early connections making a real impact. Soon, Energy alumni are creating companies, leading multinational organizations, investing in startups, writing forward-thinking policies. I am an example of this.”

Janice Tran

Student Energy’s impact is evident in the countless success stories of youth who have taken action in their regions. For instance, students from the University of Manitoba collaborated with peers in Algeria to develop clean cooking solutions for their communities. Others have launched high school education initiatives or joined Student Energy’s board to continue shaping the organization’s future. These examples highlight the ripple effect of Student Energy’s work—by empowering one individual, the organization sparks change that reverberates through entire communities.

Looking Ahead: The Vision for 2030

As Student Energy looks toward the future, its focus is on ensuring that young people have the resources and support they need to stay engaged in the energy transition for the long term. One of the organization’s top priorities is addressing burnout among young climate activists. Watts expresses concern that young people are not receiving the support they need to sustain their involvement in the movement. To address this, Student Energy is expanding its programs to provide more comprehensive career training, mentorship, and funding opportunities.

“A big focus for us is going to be how we create more staying power in the youth, energy transition and climate movement. A real fear of mine and many, many around me is that young people are burning out very quickly and they’re not getting the support that they need to really have agency and staying power in this space.”

Helen Watts

By 2030, the organization aims to create a robust ecosystem for youth involvement in the energy sector. This vision includes expanding its careers platform to connect young people with employment opportunities and building a mentorship network that provides ongoing support. “Young people deserve to have purposeful work that’s meaningful to them,” Watts says, underscoring the importance of creating sustainable career paths in the energy transition.

Charging Forward

As Student Energy celebrates its 15th anniversary, the organization’s impact on the global energy landscape is undeniable. From its beginnings as a grassroots initiative to its current status as a global leader in youth empowerment, Student Energy has remained steadfast in its commitment to creating a just and sustainable energy future.

“What I would tell young people who are thinking about getting into this space is we need you .We absolutely need your energy, your passion, your talent in order to make the massive transition that is required of us to be able to protect the planet and give people the future that they deserve.” Kali Taylor

 Looking ahead, the organization’s vision for 2030 is clear: to continue empowering young people, fostering global connections, and ensuring that youth voices remain at the forefront of the energy transition. As Watts puts it, “This is a crisis that will not be solved by an individual… It will be solved by collective action.”

Given its strategic timing on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, New York Climate Week also offered a fantastic venue for celebrating Student Energy’s 15th anniversary, reflecting on our remarkable achievements in activating young people to accelerate the clean energy transition while at the same time looking toward our future through the release of our 2030 Vision. 

This vision centres around four key pillars we plan to prioritize over the coming years, including fostering global and local community-building through our Chapters network and bi-annual Student Energy Summit; expanding career pathways for young people in clean energy through our Career Training and Fellowship programs; providing grants to high-impact and needs-driven energy projects through our Guided Projects program; and creating new educational opportunities for youth through intergenerational collaboration and meaningful youth inclusion.

It’s these core thematic areas that guided our efforts and advocacy during New York Climate Week. In particular, Student Energy announced a new Commitment to Action as part of the Clinton Global Initiative’s (CGI) 2024 Annual Meeting, which took place in New York between September 22 and 23. This commitment, Equipping Young Leaders for Clean Energy Innovation, aims to advance youth-led clean energy deployment in the Global South, directly engaging 2,500 young people from 2025 to 2027 through job training, skill-building, and project development, with far-reaching benefits impacting thousands more in local communities. Student Energy is delighted to join organizations such as Imagine Worldwide, Ashley Lashley Foundation, and Young Activists Summit in making a Commitment to Action, and we’ll be monitoring our progress toward our goals over the coming years. 

We also had the opportunity to learn from a number of inspiring leaders and experts in the space, through events like the Global Renewables Summit, Resilience Day: Innovating and Investing for People and Planet, and EnergyNow SDG7 Action Forum, as well as those hosted by partners and organizations like Trottier Foundation, Youth Climate Justice Fund, Women Leading on Climate, Time for Better, Rockefeller Foundation, and more. 

Speaking & Moderating Engagements

Sharing Benefits of An Inclusive Renewable Energy Transition

Helen was a speaker at the Global Renewables Alliance’s roundtable discussion, Sharing Benefits of An Inclusive Renewable Energy Transition, hosted as part of the Global Renewables Summit, in which representatives from both the private sector and civil society presented case studies and best practices for accelerating the deployment of renewable energy technologies, while also exploring how to ensure the energy transition is inclusive, the importance of collaboration, and how to ensure that its benefits are distributed equitably to all. 

Flipping the Script: Mobilising the Youth Perspective on Positive Tipping Points

Helen also took part in the Global Optimism-hosted event, Flipping the Script: Mobilising the Youth Perspective on Positive Tipping Points, as moderator, diving into the importance of youth leveraging storytelling and creative communications in order to amplify messages of agency and hope that are founded in the concept of positive tipping points. 

A Multi-Stakeholder Dialogue on Climate Action: Young Practitioners and Their Role in Technology Transformation

Grace spoke at the event A Multi-Stakeholder Dialogue on Climate Action: Young Practitioners and Their Role in Technology Transformation, hosted by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), which explored the technological transformations that must take place in order to address pressing sustainability issues and catalyze climate action.

Mainstreaming Gender & Youth for SDG 7: Challenges & Opportunities for Young Women Entering the Workforce

Grace further moderated a session during the Energy Now SDG 7 Action Forum, Mainstreaming Gender & Youth for SDG 7: Challenges & Opportunities for Young Women Entering the Workforce, which featured dialogue on the challenges and opportunities for mainstreaming gender and youth perspectives in support of the achievement of SDG 7 – which calls for access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all – and focused on the empowerment of women within the energy transition.

Hosted Events 

Clean Energy Career Pathways for Youth in the Global South

Student Energy was thrilled to host our very own event during New York Climate Week, in partnership with New Energy Nexus and Linked In, titled Clean Energy Career Pathways for Youth in the Global South. Drawing perspectives from Andrew Chang (Chief Growth Officer, New Energy Nexus), Hamd Akmal (Student, NYU), moderator Cammie Erickson (Senior Director of Social Impact, LinkedIn), and our very own Executive Director, Helen Watts, this event offered both inspiring and critical dialogue on the importance of engaging meaningfully with young people and providing them with necessary green skills and support to drive an inclusive and equitable clean energy transition, while also acknowledging the unique ways in which youth from the Global South are positioned to foster radical change. 

We are immensely proud of the outcomes our partnerships with both of these organizations have achieved in this regard, and we look forward to many future collaborations which continue to work to enable young people as agents of change.

Intergenerational Roundtable on the Future of Climate

On Friday, we also supported an Intergenerational Roundtable on the Future of Climate, which brought together a number of young leaders and senior leaders from various sectors and organizations to foster meaningful dialogue and collaboration in order to empower youth in driving impactful climate solutions, while also amplifying youth voices and emphasizing the need to allocate resources effectively to address the climate crisis. 

This conversation developed from an understanding that youth largely remain tokenized and deprived of meaningful representation within decision-making spaces – despite the growing role they play in tackling the climate crisis and addressing the energy transition – and builds off of conversations Student Energy hosted last year in partnership with the Climate Emergency Collaboration Group, which brought together youth and philanthropy to explore existing challenges, opportunities, and collaborative strategies to spur the energy transition through impactful youth-driven projects. 

Stay tuned for a full report with findings from both of these conversations! We hope that these outcomes will catalyze broader gatherings between youth and a variety of industries and sectors and foster meaningful support for youth as drivers of a sustainable energy transition and climate change action. 

Looking Forward

New York Climate Week highlighted the role and power that partnerships play to disrupt climate narratives and to ensure that we are centring the voices of youth and underrepresented communities. By mobilizing support for young people across different platforms, we aim to mainstream youth-forward perspectives, programs, and policies that support a just transition.

With New York Climate Week now behind us, we’re looking forward to rest and rejuvenation as we prepare for the end of 2024 and are excited to carry forward our successes into another impactful year. If you’re interested in learning more about our work and engagements at events, please connect with us at michelle@studentenergy.org. 

At Student Energy, we believe that we can always further the just energy transition, and the role youth play in that transition, by pointing to positive examples where we see youth-led change already taking place. This blog explores how four diverse countries—Kenya, Ireland, the Netherlands, and Timor-Leste—are promoting youth involvement in climate and energy issues, reflecting on the unique approaches and common themes that characterize their efforts.

Kenya

Kenya, a country that has faced significant environmental challenges, has been proactive in engaging its youth in climate action and energy transition. The involvement of young people in these areas is seen as crucial not only for addressing current environmental issues but also for ensuring a future that young Kenyans feel they will be adequately represented in.

Youth in Kenya demand stronger action on climate change.

One of the key platforms for youth engagement in Kenya is the Kenya Youth Climate Action Network (KYCN). This network brings together young people from across the country to advocate for climate action and participate in environmental decision-making. KYCN members are involved in policy discussions, climate forums, and environmental campaigns, ensuring that youth voices are heard at both local and national levels. The Youth Congress of Kenya provides another important avenue for youth engagement. This platform gives young people the opportunity to engage with policymakers on various issues, including climate and energy. By amplifying youth voices in national development processes, the Youth Congress plays a vital role in ensuring that the perspectives of young people are included in decision-making.

Kenya has made significant strides in ensuring youth representation in climate policy-making. The National Climate Change Council includes youth representatives, ensuring that the concerns and perspectives of younger generations are considered in national climate policies and strategies. This inclusion is further supported by the Kenya Climate Change Act, 2016, which mandates the participation of marginalized groups, including youth, in climate-related decision-making processes.

Ireland

Ireland, a country with a strong commitment to environmental sustainability, has been at the forefront of involving youth in climate and energy decision-making. Recognizing the importance of youth perspectives, Ireland has implemented a range of initiatives to ensure that young people are active participants in shaping the country’s environmental policies.

One of the key initiatives in Ireland is the National Youth Assembly on Climate, which brings together young people from across the country to discuss climate issues and provide input into national policies. This assembly ensures that youth voices are heard in shaping Ireland’s climate action plans, allowing them to contribute to the country’s response to climate change.

Scenes of Dublin, Ireland and the homepage for Comhairle na nÓg.

Ireland has a strong tradition of supporting youth organizations that focus on climate and energy issues. Comhairle na nÓg, a nationwide initiative, gives young people a voice in the development of local and national policies. Members of Comhairle na nÓg have been involved in discussions on climate action and environmental policies, contributing to the country’s efforts to address climate change.

Youth representation in policy-making is a key priority for Ireland. The country appoints Youth Delegates to the UN, who represent Ireland at international forums such as the UN Climate Change Conference (COP). These delegates ensure that the perspectives of Irish youth are brought to the global stage, advocating for stronger international action on climate change. Ireland’s Climate Change Advisory Council also includes youth representatives, ensuring that the concerns of younger generations are considered in the country’s climate policies. This inclusion is a reflection of Ireland’s commitment to intergenerational equity and the recognition that young people have a vital role to play in shaping the future.

The Netherlands

The Netherlands has taken significant steps to involve youth in the country’s energy transition and climate action. The Dutch government recognizes that young people are essential stakeholders in achieving the country’s sustainability goals and has implemented various initiatives to ensure their active participation. The Youth Climate Summit is one of the key platforms for youth engagement in the Netherlands. This summit brings together young people from across the country to discuss climate challenges and propose solutions. The outcomes of these summits are often presented to government officials and integrated into national climate strategies, ensuring that youth perspectives are considered in decision-making processes.

The Netherlands also appoints Youth Delegates to the UN, who represent the country at international forums such as the UN Climate Change Conferences (COP). These delegates play a crucial role in bringing the perspectives of Dutch youth to global climate negotiations, advocating for stronger international action on climate change. Dutch youth have been actively involved in the drafting of the National Climate Agreement, which outlines the country’s strategy for reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. Youth organizations were consulted during the development of this agreement, ensuring that the perspectives of young people were included in the final policy.

The Dutch Youth Council (NJR) is another important platform for youth engagement in the Netherlands. The NJR represents Dutch youth in various policy discussions, including those related to climate and energy. By collaborating with government agencies, NGOs, and international organizations, the NJR ensures that youth voices are considered in decision-making processes. The Dutch government’s Climate Agreement includes provisions for the participation of young people in its implementation. The agreement recognizes the importance of intergenerational equity and the role of youth in achieving the country’s climate goals. Additionally, the National Youth Policy emphasizes the involvement of youth in all areas of national development, including environmental sustainability and energy.

Timor-Leste

Timor-Leste, a young and developing nation, has been increasingly recognizing the importance of involving youth in decision-making processes related to climate change and energy. While the country is still building its institutional frameworks and capacities, several initiatives have been launched to engage young people in these critical issues. The National Youth Council of Timor-Leste (CNJTL) serves as a platform for young people to engage in discussions on national policies, including those related to the environment and sustainable development. The council advocates for the inclusion of youth perspectives in decision-making processes at both local and national levels.

Mangrove restoration projects are an essential part of Timor Leste’s resilience plan.

Timor-Leste’s National Adaptation Programme of Action (NAPA), which focuses on climate change adaptation, has involved youth in its consultations and planning. The program acknowledges the role of young people in building resilience to climate impacts in communities across the country. Timor-Leste’s government, in collaboration with NGOs, has integrated environmental education into the school curriculum, teaching students about climate change, energy conservation, and sustainable practices. Programs focused on Climate Resilience and Adaptation Training, often supported by international organizations like the UNDP, equip young people with the knowledge and skills needed to address climate-related challenges in their communities. This and more is outlined in Timor Leste’s National Adaptation Plan that outlines how the country will meet the challenges of climate change and foster resilience among its citizens in the process.

Youth in Timor-Leste are actively involved in community-based initiatives, such as Mangrove Restoration Projects and agricultural adaptation initiatives. These projects not only contribute to climate adaptation but also provide young people with opportunities to engage in environmental conservation and sustainable agriculture practices.

A Shared Commitment to Youth Engagement

Across Kenya, Ireland, the Netherlands, and Timor-Leste, there’s a shared belief that youth must be involved in climate and energy decisions. Despite different approaches, the core idea is the same—youth are essential stakeholders, not just future leaders. 

These countries show that when young people have the platforms and support to engage, they can make a real impact. As we tackle climate change, the voices and actions of young people are crucial for shaping a sustainable future.

To learn more about how you can further the just energy transition in your community, head to www.studentenergy.org/research and get reading! We have numerous youth-focused reports that will help you build your energy transition toolkit!

CHECK OUT OUR 2023 ANNUAL REPORT

Highlights

Here’s a sneak peak to our 2023 Annual Report!

From our Board Chair

From our Executive Director

2023: Our Impact at a Glance

Here’s a glimpse of Student Energy’s 2023 impact in numbers:

• Global Reach: Our Programs Ecosystem (7 active programs) engaged a total of 826 participants from 116 countries, 78 of which are developing economies.
• Youth Empowerment: Supported 9 global youth delegations at prestigious events, and 407 youth delegates from 95 countries attended SES 2023, the largest youth-led energy summit.
• Global Community Engagement: Reached 32,730 people through our global Chapters network, with a membership of 4,369 students from different universities across the world.
• Mentorship, Early Career and Project Development: 32 graduates completed the first cohort of the Guided Projects program, received 1,604 Career Training and 1,063 Fellowship applications from youth interested in joining our capacity-building and mentorship-oriented programs.
• Networking: Spoke at 34 panels and events in the climate and energy space worldwide, including the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) UAE, Climate Week NYC, and Africa Energy Forum, among others.
• Recognition: Received 3 individual awards and one organizational accolade, “Best Nonprofit Employer: Youth Advancement for an organization with 20+ staff”, awarded by CharityVillage.

5 accomplishments we’re celebrating:

1. Successfully hosting SES 2023 in Abu Dhabi, bringing together 407 young people from around the world.

Making history as the first International Student Energy Summit held in the MENA region – a global hub for energy, SES 2023 featured 407 youth delegates from all over the world to meaningfully collaborate with sector and community leaders on energy solutions. We are proud to work with several partners for the first time, including Bezos Earth Fund, the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP), and coordinated with NYU Abu Dhabi and the COP 28 UAE team as the Summit took place as an official side event of the UN Climate Change Conference for the very first time.

2. Activating a first cohort of youth-led clean energy projects in solar PV through the Guided Projects program and expanding the program’s offerings and reach.

With 32 graduates from 6 teams representing Kenya, Canada, and Peru, the Guided Projects program provided teams with the firsthand experience of developing solar PV projects to solve local energy problems in their communities. After a successful first cohort, Student Energy focused on retooling and securing additional resources for the program’s continuation in February 2024.

3. Releasing and disseminating our first round of the three research projects with active stakeholder engagement throughout.

Under Student Energy’s newly launched Research and Youth Engagement program, we launched the Global Youth Energy Outlook (GYEO), the Youth Impact Framework, and the Energy Transition Skills Project.

VIEW THE REPORTS

4. Integrating mentorship as a core aspect of our Programs Ecosystem, offering our youth network platforms to build connections through mentorship offerings.

Mentorship is the foundation of the Student Energy Career Training (SECT) program, and regional and language-specific mentorship is necessary and achieved through individual recruitment from program coordinators who are globally dispersed.

5. Amplifying youth-led action on energy on global stages and decision-making spaces

Student Energy attended 23 global energy and climate events, including the New York Climate Week, Berlin Energy Transition Dialogue, and the Africa Energy Forum among others. We participated as speakers and moderators at 34 events, and hosted 11 events at COP 28 and the Student Energy Summit. We acted in an advisory capacity for several youth councils, and hosted the very first Youth Energy Narratives Council under the Research and Youth Engagement portfolio.

We’ve got so much more in store for you! Explore our 2023 Annual Report:

STUDENT ENERGY'S 2023 ANNUAL REPORT 

Thank you for standing by us as we empower the next generation of leaders in driving a just and equitable energy future! Your continued support fuels our mission and inspires us every step of the way.

Follow us:

Instagram: @studentenergy 

Twitter: @studentenergy 

LinkedIn: Student Energy

Facebook: Student Energy

YouTube: Student Energy

TikTok: @studentenergy

Threads: @studentenergy

Website & Blog: https://studentenergy.org/

The Youth Council’s recommendations are intended to help climate philanthropists better understand youth perspectives and consequently shape their priorities to become more responsive to the needs of youth, as youth are among the most climate-vulnerable groups globally.

Between September 2023 and March 2024, the Youth Council will focus on:

• Conducting research, synthesizing their own knowledge, and engaging in Student Energy-led workshops to prepare actionable recommendations for climate philanthropists to effectively engage with young people.
• Developing their initial findings and recommendations into a creative story to be shared on the ground at the Student Energy Summit 2023 (SES 2023) in Abu Dhabi; using SES as an opportunity to liaise with other young people and climate and energy leaders on the ground to receive feedback and further improve on and enhance their pieces.
• Presenting their recommendations to Student Energy’s partner organizations, with support from Student Energy in February 2024, incorporating learnings from SES 2023 in the Council’s final set of recommendations.

Meet the 5 Youth Energy Narratives Council

Abul Bashar Rahman

Bashar is an Economics student at the University of British Columbia (UBC) carrying a quiet passion for climate solutions. Hailing from Bangladesh, a nation deeply affected by climate change, he has sought to understand the resilience of his people better.

As a youth delegate at COP27 in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, he noted the disproportionate representation of Bangladesh as compared to the impact of climate change on its people. Passionate about equitable climate solutions, he is utilizing storytelling to advocate for climate-vulnerable communities in the Global South. One of the ways is through a heartfelt project where he cycled across Bangladesh, absorbing tales of hope and hardship. He’s also working on an atlas, weaving in stories of change from climate-impacted communities with an emphasis on the Global South.

His dedication has led him to humbly represent Bangladesh, Stories of Change, and UBC through multiple platforms. Bashar hopes to share the stories of those often unheard in the larger discourse on climate change.

Cathleen Jeanty

Cathleen is currently an Innovation Fellow at The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees; the Director of Communications at the Progressive Democrats of New Jersey; a Chapter Co-coordinator at Women of Color Advancing Peace, Security, and Conflict Transformation’s (WCAPS) New York chapter, a National Climate Fellow at Change the Chamber; and a globally emerging leader for climate action. She is also a United States LCOY delegate, where she will be drafting the 2023 U.S. National Youth Statement on Climate.

In the past, she was a Public Information Editor at the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei, an Obama Organizing Fellow, and the Assistant Media Coordinator at the Campaign for a National Presidential Youth Council. She has been a youth delegate at various summits at The World Bank, The United Nations, NATO, and The International Monetary Fund.

Adebambo Micheal

Micheal is a dynamic renewable energy professional driven to expand energy access and sustainability in marginalized communities. Hailing from Nigeria, he earned his B.Sc in Physics from the Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta. His undergraduate studies and thesis project focused on solar energy applications.

Micheal is passionate about driving innovation in clean energy technologies to uplift lives in underserved areas. He has hands-on experience as a solar technician and installation engineer designing and deploying solar PV systems to electrify homes, businesses, and villages. He also participated in STEM education outreach initiatives and drug abuse prevention programs.

He aspires to pioneer affordable clean energy solutions, advance renewable energy adoption on a national scale, and train youth to lead sustainability efforts across Africa.

Anushka Nagle

Anushka is a final-year Architecture student on a transformative journey driven by a passion for sustainability and a curiosity about innovative ecological technologies and materials. Her dedication extends beyond the classroom as she actively seeks opportunities to collaborate with a diverse global community of like-minded individuals.

Her mission is crystal clear: she is driven to bridge the gap between theory and practice, leveraging the collective wisdom of professionals worldwide to tackle common global challenges. 

She aims to unite people together towards a greener, more sustainable future—a journey where architecture and ecological consciousness converge to reshape the world for the better. She believes that together, we can embark on a voyage of exploration, innovation, and the practical application of sustainable solutions in our daily lives. 

Amanda Nogueira Moreira de Souza

Amanda is a Black Brazilian woman raised in a favela in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. At the age of 17, she received a full scholarship to study for two years at United World College (UWC) ISAK in Japan, where she concluded her high school education. A first-generation student and the first person in her family to live and study outside of Brazil, she is now a junior at Macalester College in Minnesota, where she is pursuing a double major in Political Science and Environmental Studies.

In all three countries Amanda has lived in — Brazil, Japan, and the US, she dedicates herself to working for equity, racial justice, and Indigenous rights. She participated in Black Movements, founded a Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion (DEI) committee in Japan, and currently works to empower Afro-Latinos in the United States.

She has a range of experiences – from sailing for a month from Hawaii to California where she researched plastics and how they disproportionately affect Indigenous communities, to becoming an intern at the Great Plains Institute in Minnesota during the 2023 legislative session where she advocated for clean transportation, to becoming an intern at The Nature Conservancy in Minnesota where she crafted an inventory of tribal engagement and created a best practices guide on how the organization can conduct work with tribal nations.

During the summer of 2023, Amanda received a full scholarship to participate in the Youth Assembly through the Climate Entrepreneurship Package held by the New York University (NYU). She had the opportunity to celebrate International Youth Day at the UN headquarters in New York and participate in a series of workshops on climate change. Recently, she interviewed Hindou Oumarou, Chadian Environmental Activist and Geographer, for the ActNow film which will be showcased in the upcoming COP28.

Meet the former president of the Student Energy Chapter at Monterrey Institute of Technology (Tec de Monterrey) – Benjamin Betancourt Tovar! He was president of the Chapter from August 2022 to July 2023. Currently, he is studying Nanotechnology Engineering at his University in Monterrey, Mexico.

“In January of 2023, I had the opportunity to be selected and attend the 13th IRENA Assembly as an IRENA Youth Delegate in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. In the same event, I was able to participate in the IRENA Youth Forum: The Next Generation of Decision Makers, where I was part of a panel discussion, expressing how we, the youth, face challenges in the development of science, innovation and technology for energetic affairs. Apart from the assembly, the Youth Delegation had the opportunity to attend the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week and visit Noor Abu Dhabi, the world’s largest stand-alone operational solar plant. During my trip, I was thrilled to meet new people from all over the world with different perspectives, meet high level representatives from different organizations and also to learn about the energetic sector developments and challenges from IRENA representatives from all over the world. After this exciting experience, I came back to Mexico with fresh ideas and motivation to design and implement solutions in my community towards the youth-led energetic transition, working within my chapter and also in the development of “ANSE: México Joven por la Energía” [Mexican Youth for Energy], a youth-led energy network within Mexico!” – Benjamin Betancourt Tovar

Interested to start a Student Energy Chapter at your university? Head over to Starting a Chapter on our website and fill out an Expression of Interest form!

Get to know the recently graduated president of the Student Energy McGill Chapter, Chloe Guo, based in Montreal, Quebec. Chloe just finished her last year of undergraduate studies in Biochemistry at McGill University and will be staying at McGill for two more years as a Master’s student. She will remain in the SE McGill Chapter as a Graduate Student Advisor.

“I first joined the McGill chapter as the Vice President of Events two years ago during my first in-person semester at McGill. Going into university without having much interaction with others during the COVID pandemic, I wanted to get to know more peers with similar interests. I have always been interested in sustainability and sustainable energy in general.

…As VP Events, I organized several campus-wide in-person and virtual events. When I joined the McGill chapter, it was still a very young student group that many didn’t know about. Hoping to attract more like-minded students, the first event I organized was a virtual info session featuring some of the members on the Student Energy Management Team! After this event, we went on to host many more engaging workshops, webinars, and in-person networking events in collaboration with professionals from outside of the McGill community on topics such as climate migration and climate justice. During my time as VP Events and later on as the president, I learned so much from my teammates and energy leaders that I had the chance to talk with at our events. I’m glad that we have come thus far in the past two years and matured so much together as a team!” – Chloe Guo

If you want to connect with the Student Energy McGill Chapter, check them out on Instagram at @studentenergyatmcgill

Interested to start a Student Energy Chapter at your university? Head over to Starting a Chapter on our website and fill out an Expression of Interest form!

The ASES Solar conference held space for presentations, discussions, and speakers for both working professionals and youth to co-learn about social justice aspects of the energy sector– such as women in solar, intergenerational discussions on mentorship, and youth entering the labour market to name a few. The event ran from August 8-11th but I arrived in Boulder on the 10th, leaving me with little time to enjoy the rest of the conference. I was, however, lucky enough to listen in on a “Young Professionals” panel discussion on youth sharing their strategic ways on networking, and navigating their early career challenges in the renewable energy sector. The latter half of the session allotted for a rotating speed networking session with the youth panelists, where I participated and learned some common, yet relevant challenges that young people face in entering the green jobs market. Youth with backgrounds in engineering, public policy, and STEM research find it challenging to find meaningful work, and shared various ways such as pitching project ideas or research topics as a way to show their initiative and proactiveness in their work-learn opportunities and internships. Connecting with these young professionals informed me the same stories of all other young people globally who are passionate change makers, and have grit to make meaningful difference in the energy transition movement, but are struggling to enter the industry. Feeling even more inspired by this experience, I channeled the same level of positivity into delivering Student Energy’s workshop that speaks to the very nature of this conversation– how young people can enter the energy transition labour market. 

The workshop drew key insights from Student Energy’s recently published report “Energy Transitions Skills Project” and its own 14 years of youth engagement to provide some actionable recommendations on how youth can take hold of their own energy careers. I walk through the importance of reflecting values, desires, and skills before job searching as a way to remind young people what is important to them when selecting a career; and relating their values to the labour market demand will make it easier for them to target their job search. Later, I facilitated a storytelling session where participants pitch their stories amongst themselves as a practice run for future networking opportunities with industry professionals. While there was low attendance in the workshop, the youth who participated were very engaged and happy to share their stories and connect with one another. 

Sharing recommendations to young people to be part of the energy movement gives me joy as I was in the same position a couple of years ago–I did not know how to apply my own unique skills and lived experiences in the energy transition industry, and felt severe imposter syndrome as a result. I still am continuously navigating through this rhythm of learning collectively as I engage with other youth on how we can intercept high-level decision-making spaces, and make our voices heard through our work. From learning about energy education through the Leaders Fellowship Program, to now working as Research and Youth Engagement Special Projects Coordinator, Student Energy has expanded my potential in the way I see myself, and how to creatively apply my own unique skills in the energy space. This experience has given me the opportunity to connect with other brilliant minds that give me the optimistic feeling of a positive transformation of the energy industry, and preparing for the next generation of leaders to confidently reclaim and re-write their futures. 

Student Energy’s Shakti Ramkumar, Senior Director of Policy and Communications, had a conversation with Chris Palliser, host of The SolarPVcast podcast by Shift Energy Group in a podcast episode “Empowering Future Leaders: Student Energy’s Impact on Sustainable Energy Transition” published August 4 on Spotify and YouTube. The conversation delves into how Student Energy, a global, youth-led non-profit organization, is empowering young people to become leaders accelerating the transition to a just and equitable energy future.

The conversation begins with the humble beginnings of Student Energy – how a team of three students (Janice Tran, Kali Taylor, and Sean Collins) in Calgary back in 2009 managed to build the world’s largest organization working on energy with a network of 50,000+ global youth 14 years later. Starting with the first International Student Energy Summit, the founders successfully brought together 350 young people from over 30 countries to gather in Calgary and provide a space for collaboration alongside world leaders and energy experts. And so, Student Energy was born as a non-profit with a mission to empower aspiring young leaders to take an active part in a just energy transition.

Shakti shares the organization’s many initiatives, including the impact of Student Energy’s programs ecosystem engaging thousands of global young people in building the skills, education, training, and project development experience to empower them in tackling various energy, climate, and equity issues both at a local and global level. In particular, Shakti talked about Student Energy’s Guided Projects program, with the first cohort installing solar PV projects within their local communities in varying contexts. A pre-pilot solar PV project was successfully installed by students at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) in Edmonton, Alberta before the official cohort launch. Led by students Jack Harding and Ethan Buchanan, power generated from the solar array is now being sold to the University, and the students are using the proceeds to fund their Chapter’s work. Since then, the Guided Projects program brought on six teams from all over the world as part of the first cohort. Two of these solar projects are now successfully installed – the Shames Mountain team providing power for a community-owned ski hill in Northwestern BC, and the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) team’s project aiming to electrify Gachororo Primary School in their community in Juja, Kenya.

At the core of Student Energy’s work is education. The aim is to demystify the energy system by leveling the playing field on who gets to understand the energy system by simplifying technical jargon, making energy education accessible to anyone, and empowering people to feel comfortable explaining the energy system. The Energy System Map, the Energy 101 series on Student Energy’s social media platforms, and energy education videos on Student Energy’s YouTube channels are the many ways the organization shares educational resources so anyone can be empowered to learn about the energy system.

Listen to the full podcast on Spotify and watch the full episode on YouTube!

Spotify

YouTube