RCOY Costa Rica
Regional Conference of Youth
In 2022, I had the privilege of participating in the Regional Conference of Youth (RCOY) held in Cartago, Costa Rica. This conference was a pivotal learning experience where I deeply engaged with Latin American perspectives on climate change, particularly focusing on Indigenous viewpoints. One of the critical issues discussed was the lack of participatory approaches in developing programs that affect Indigenous communities, as well as how climate change impacts different Latin American regions.
The conference was incredibly enriching, providing me with the opportunity to participate in specialized workshops on loss and damage, and others where we developed documents concerning agriculture and its effects on communities and Indigenous people who maintain ancestral practices.
UN 2023 Water Conference
United Nations Water Conference in New York, United States
In 2023, I achieved accreditation to participate in the United Nations Water Conference in New York. At this conference, I led a side event discussing various Central American perspectives on water and sanitation. I also presented findings and discussed the situation in Nicaragua regarding water and sanitation, which was even broadcast virtually. This presentation allowed me to highlight the challenges and innovative solutions being explored within the region, showcasing the urgent need for sustainable water management and sanitation practices.
These experiences at the United Nations conferences not only enhanced my understanding and commitment to addressing environmental and social challenges but also provided platforms for voicing critical regional issues and sharing effective solutions with a global audience. Engaging with diverse stakeholders and experts in these forums deepened my resolve to continue advocating for sustainable development and environmental justice, particularly for underrepresented communities.
Central America Vulnerable Forum
Section Subtitle
In 2023, I participated in the "Central America Vulnerable" forum, a significant event that brought together NGOs from across Central America to discuss the region's most pressing challenges. This forum was particularly focused on highlighting the diverse issues faced by communities within the region, including environmental degradation, social inequality, and economic vulnerabilities.
A central theme of the forum was the Indigenous perspective on globalization and the impact of externally imposed development programs. Indigenous representatives shared their experiences and concerns about how such programs often overlook their traditional knowledge and rights, leading to policies that do not align with their needs or respect their cultural heritage. These discussions shed light on the necessity for inclusive approaches that genuinely consider Indigenous voices in the planning and implementation of development initiatives.
As a participant, I engaged actively with various stakeholders, listening to their insights and contributing to the dialogue on how to better integrate Indigenous perspectives into broader development agendas. The forum served as a crucial platform for airing the unique challenges faced by Indigenous communities, particularly in terms of environmental conservation, legal rights to land, and cultural autonomy.
One of the key outcomes of the forum was a collective call for greater advocacy and policy-making that supports the rights and aspirations of Indigenous peoples within the framework of sustainable development. It emphasized the need for creating development programs that are not only sustainable but also culturally sensitive and participatory.
The "Central America Vulnerable" forum was a deeply enlightening and motivating experience, reinforcing my commitment to supporting vulnerable communities in Central America. It underscored the importance of building resilience through cooperation, respect for cultural diversity, and an inclusive approach to addressing the region's environmental and social challenges.
LCOY Nicaragua
Local Conference of Youth
In my continued commitment to environmental and community advocacy, I had the honor of moderating the water and sanitation segment at the Local Conference of Youth (LCOY) in Nicaragua. This role not only aligned with my expertise in environmental engineering but also deepened my understanding of the local challenges facing Nicaraguan communities.
During the conference, I focused on facilitating discussions that highlighted the critical water issues in Nicaragua. Participants from various communities shared their experiences, particularly emphasizing the drastic changes they face during the dry season. They reported that rivers dry up and even well levels drop significantly, indicating a severe depletion of aquifers. These discussions brought to light the urgent need for sustainable water management practices and the need to address groundwater sustainability.
Another significant issue discussed was the legalization of land and water sources. Many communities expressed concerns over legal rights to their land and associated water resources, which is crucial for their survival and well-being. By moderating this space, I was able to bring these local voices to the forefront, showcasing the interconnectedness of land rights and water access in the context of environmental sustainability.
The conference provided a vital platform for local communities to articulate their struggles and seek collaborative solutions. My role as a moderator was instrumental in ensuring that these discussions were not only heard but also addressed in the broader context of policy and community action plans.
Through this experience, I gained a deeper appreciation of the complex dynamics that influence water and sanitation issues in Nicaragua. It reinforced my dedication to leveraging my expertise to advocate for and develop solutions that cater to the specific needs of Nicaraguan communities, ensuring that water resource management and sanitation become integral parts of sustainable development initiatives.