Meet the inspiring Members of the Regional Youth Parliament on Climate Action (RYPCA) whose diverse expertise and commitment are driving transformative climate action in the Asia-Pacific region
In a recent initiative to elevate youth voices in climate governance, UNDP in Asia and the Pacific, the Youth Empowerment in Climate Action Platform (YECAP), Climate Parliament, Climate Parliament Bangladesh, The Earth, UNICEF East Asia-Pacific, UNICEF Regional Office for South Asia, UN Women, and the World Assembly of Youth (WAY) launched the call for applications for the Regional Youth Parliament on Climate Action (RYPCA) in Asia and the Pacific. RYPCA represents the collective effort to empower young leaders across the Asia-Pacific region to meaningfully engage in political participation.
RYPCA aims to provide a safe and inclusive platform for these young changemakers to engage in climate policy discussions, influence national and regional climate strategies, and foster meaningful action on pressing environmental issues. Over the next 12-18 months, these dedicated individuals will work together to drive impactful climate solutions in the decision-making processes.
Here is an inspiring group of 15 youth leaders whose diverse expertise and commitment will drive transformative climate action:
Amira Aisya Binti Abd Aziz
Amira Aisya, Deputy President of MUDA and Johor State MLA, is a prominent advocate for women’s rights and climate change from Malaysia. As the youngest MLA in Johor, she brings a fresh perspective to state climate policies and disaster management.
Carly Leung
Carly Leung, Co-Founder of the Climate Incubator and Member of the Asia-Pacific Youth Advisory Group from Hong Kong SAR, empowers youth to tackle climate challenges through skill-building and collaborative learning, driving a just climate transition.
Dikshya Subedi
Dikshya Subedi is a passionate climate justice activist and sustainable food advocate from Nepal. With six years of experience in global climate advocacy and policy, she works to strengthen food systems and advance youth engagement in environmental issues.
Duncan Wohwiehembe
Duncan Wohwiehembe, an Urban and Regional Planner from Papua New Guinea, is committed to advancing climate policies and contributing to National Adaptation Plans (NAPs) and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) in the Asia-Pacific region.
Emmanuel Causon
Emmanuel A. Causon, Development Management Officer II at the Climate Change Commission of the Philippines, specializes in waste and water management. His work on national GHG inventories and climate strategies guides crucial policymaking for the Philippines.
Fithriyyah
Dr. Fithriyyah, an Indonesian medical doctor and environmental activist, brings invaluable experience in climate health. Honored as a UN Women 30 for 2030, she serves on the ASEAN Youth Forum’s Regional Executive Board and advises the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine on climate change and planetary health.
Gnana Sri Bhavani G
Gnana Sri Bhavani G is a dedicated climate change advocate from Tamil Nadu, India. With a focus on climate change mitigation and community engagement, she brings a strategic approach to environmental governance and strives to protect vulnerable communities through innovative solutions.
Kenley Kerbai Rudimch-Kenneth
Kenley Kenneth, an AOSIS Fellow and Ocean and Climate Adviser for Palau, combines his expertise in environmental advocacy with diplomatic engagement, representing Palau at international conferences and contributing to global climate discussions.
M S F Shamla
M S F Shamla is a renowned young changemaker and entrepreneur from Sri Lanka. Founder of Global Youth Climate Connect, she has spearheaded numerous climate initiatives, including COP28 delegations and local awareness campaigns on seabed mining.
Nuzulia Fajriningrum
A professional energy modeler from Indonesia, Nuzulia Fajriningrum excels in the intersection of energy, economy, and environment. Working with Indonesia’s Ministry of Energy, she supports vital energy transition and decarbonization initiatives, leveraging her MSc from UCL in Economics and Policy of Energy and the Environment.
Sakib Mahmud
Sakib Mahmud, Assistant Chief at Bangladesh’s National River Conservation Commission, leverages his expertise in water management and transboundary ecosystems to advocate for effective climate governance and environmental sustainability.
Singye Wangchuk
Singye Wangchuk, an Environment Officer from Bhutan, enforces environmental regulations and conducts impact assessments for development projects. His work ensures sustainable development while mitigating environmental risks.
Sobita Gautam
Sobita Gautam, a trailblazing member of parliament in Nepal, advocates for climate justice and anti-corruption with a fearless approach. Her dynamic leadership and data-driven insights are reshaping Nepal’s political landscape and championing underrepresented voices in climate policy.
Samantha Thian
Samantha Thian, founder of Seastainable, leads marine conservation efforts in ASEAN and contributes to global climate programs through her role with the UN IPCC. Her passion for environmental stewardship drives impactful initiatives and advocacy.
Wan Nin Cheung
Wan Nin Cheung, founder of a data science startup and social enterprise, focuses on enhancing rural education in China through innovative tech solutions. Recognized in Forbes China’s 30 Under 30, he is dedicated to sustainable investment and education.
Learn more about RYPCA here.
Stay tuned for exciting updates on RYPCA’s upcoming activities and how you can support youth leadership in climate governance here.