Youngsters learnt about climate change and its impact on their futures in a hands-on event at the University of West London.
About 180 teenagers aged 16-17 took part in ‘Ignite’ - an event for graduates of the Government’s National Citizen Service (NCS) programme which provides ongoing opportunities for community engagement and personal development.
As one of a series of events being organised as part of The Challenge Society, a year alumni programme for NCS graduates, the day was focused on social action, volunteering and work and training opportunities available within their areas.
It started with a TED Talk delivered by author of The Carbon Diaries Saci Lloyd, which led into several interactive workshops where the young people discovered their carbon footprint and debated issues surrounding climate change.
Also, NCS graduates networked with industry professionals and inspiring organisations that showed them next possible steps in a career, voluntary opportunity or social action.
Amongst these organisations were Greenpeace, British Airways , Heathrow, UK Youth Climate Coalition, VSO, London Climate Change Partnership and Friends of The Earth.
Yalda Farhad, 17, said: “After spending a whole summer, our wave became a family. Ignite was the perfect reunion, we had a chance to rekindle, meet new people, but also have aid in learning not only about the future of the planet through environmental awareness but also our future as individuals.
“I’m sure many like me benefitted from meeting businesses, professionals, learning about internships that are available to young people and making some crucial contacts for future careers. Overall the day was eventful, informative and enjoyable.”
The event took place on November 29.
