WGEO Program at COP29

The Story of Mr. Ali Abdo, the Moto Biker and Guinness Book Record-breaker, Traveling from Dubai to Baku

WGEO Special

Background

The Ride to COP29, a groundbreaking initiative led by Ali Abdo, a renowned moto biker and Guinness World Record-holder, represents a powerful journey of mentorship and commitment to climate action. This journey, stretching from Dubai to Baku, symbolizes the importance of empowering youth as key drivers of change in the face of an escalating climate crisis. While Ali is an experienced climate advocate, his role in this initiative is to inspire, mentor, and equip the next generation with the skills, knowledge, and networks needed to take bold and effective climate action. This session will highlight inspiring youthled initiatives from the Middle East, Caucasus, and Central Asia, showcasing how young people are mobilizing to secure a sustainable future.

In Focus

This interactive workshop is designed to bring together young climate leaders with experienced mentors like Ali Abdo. The session will explore the stories of young changemakers who are shaping climate action in their regions and provide them with practical tools and resources to amplify their impact. Additionally, the discussion will address the barriers young people face in engaging in climate decision-making and offer strategies to overcome these challenges. By fostering a sense of community and creating a supportive network, the session aims to empower youth to drive collaborative action and make their voices heard on the global stage.

Issues to Address

1. Barriers and Solutions for Youth Participation in Climate Decision-Making

• What are the main barriers preventing effective youth participation in climate decision-making at local, national, and international levels?
• What solutions can be implemented to ensure that young people’s voices are not only heard but are influential in shaping climate policies?
• How can events like COP29 be structured to provide more meaningful platforms for youth engagement and leadership?

2. Advocacy, Communication, and Leadership in the Youth Climate Movement

• What are the most effective strategies that young leaders can employ to advocate for climate action within their communities and at broader forums?
• How can young climate leaders use communication tools to mobilize community support and influence public opinion?
• What challenges do young leaders face when stepping into roles of climate advocacy, and how can these challenges be overcome through mentorship and training?

3. Building a Global Network for Youth-Led Climate Action

• Why is collaboration crucial in the context of global climate action, and how can young leaders foster international partnerships?
• What are successful examples of collaborative youth-led initiatives that have led to significant environmental impacts?
• What structures and resources are necessary to support and sustain a global network of youth climate leaders committed to ongoing collaboration and action?