Youth Leaders from Cyprus Inspire Action on Sustainability and Leadership

In the final week before the Christmas break, two youth leaders from Cyprus, Anastasis and Nefeli, conducted workshops promoting sustainability and leadership among high school students. Representing CARDET, they applied the knowledge and skills they had gained during the International Youth Leaders’ Meeting in Malaga, Spain, in October 2024, as part of the EU-funded UxGE project, to deliver impactful sessions at Lykeio Latsion. The workshops engaged 16 students, all aged 17, focusing on two key themes: leadership in environmental action and sustainable consumption.

The first workshop began with an introduction to leadership, highlighting its significance, various types, and examples of green leadership. Students participated in practical activities, including ranking leadership styles and analyzing case studies to identify different leadership approaches in various scenarios.

The second workshop shifted the focus to sustainable consumption. Through an interactive game, students categorized products based on their sustainability. This was followed by a presentation on sustainable shopping practices, which covered criteria for choosing environmentally friendly products and examples of best practices.

Despite it being their first time facilitating workshops, Anastasis and Nefeli excelled in engaging the participants through dynamic presentations and hands-on activities. Their efforts inspired the students to actively participate, fostering a deeper understanding of sustainability and leadership. This initiative not only demonstrated the potential of youth-led action but also empowered participants to take responsibility for promoting environmental sustainability and leadership in their communities. Anastasis and Nefeli’s dedication and creativity highlighted the critical role of youth leadership in shaping a sustainable future.

These workshops were part of the UxGE Project, which aims to holistically develop youth leaders and stakeholders. By focusing on leadership, critical thinking, sustainability, and environmental awareness, the project strives to create a robust framework for personal and professional growth. The ultimate goal is to cultivate young leaders who are not only aware of environmental challenges but also equipped to lead their communities toward sustainable practices and policies.

Learn more about the UxGE Project, here.