RIYADH: The Saudi Local Conference of Youth 2024 took place in Riyadh recently with a focus on equipping young Saudis with tools for sustainable entrepreneurship in climate innovation.
The event was hosted by the Saudi Youth Climate Network in partnership with the Global Shapers Community Jeddah Hub.
“It's amazing to see the excitement among (the) youth to participate in this conference,” said Aishah Alsamdani, representative of the Saudi Youth Climate Network, in an interview with Arab News.
“Connecting youth with environmental experts is crucial; there are many enthusiasts in Saudi Arabia. This conference serves as a hub to bridge ideas between business, the private sector and government, particularly for (young people) starting their careers.”
This year’s theme, “Empowering Climate Entrepreneurship: From Knowledge Capital to Financial Capital,” brought together young, enthusiastic climate advocates and industry experts to foster intergenerational dialogue, explore green technologies and provide pathways to convert knowledge into financial capital.
Alsamdani emphasized the need to involve young people youth in building a sustainable future, stating: “They are the future, bringing innovative ideas and creativity. Addressing sustainability challenges requires fresh ideas, and (the) youth can significantly contribute.”
A panel discussion, “Entrepreneurship and Environmental Knowledge,” featured moderator Faisal Al-Shehri, founder and CEO of learning and employment platform OLO. Alongside him were Batool Albar, general manager of Terraxy, which provides integrated solutions for agriculture and soil sustainability in arid regions, and Sultan Al-Shayie, CEO of atmospheric water harvesting company Airwa.
They discussed cutting-edge technologies such as sustainable water solutions and highlighted the importance of cross-sector partnerships and government support.
Hassan Qadi, curator of Global Shapers Community Jeddah Hub, said: “KSA LCOY 2024 marks a pivotal moment for Saudi youth-led climate action. We are nurturing startups that address climate challenges while aligning with Vision 2030’s goals to diversify the economy and boost non-oil GDP.”
As part of the conference, the Global Shapers Community led the National Youth Statement, gathering input from attendees.
“The youth statement addresses key areas aligned with this year’s theme of entrepreneurship and climate change,” said Alsamdani. “This initiative aims to make youth impact more tangible.”
The statement will be submitted to the MENA Regional Conference of Youth in Amman and the Global Conference of Youth in Baku, amplifying Saudi youth voices ahead of COP29 climate negotiations. Alsamdani will attend the Regional Conference of Youth to share the conference results.
The event concluded with a Memorandum of Understanding signing, aimed at increasing youth involvement in climate action, between the Saudi Youth Climate Network, Prince Sultan University’s Center of Sustainability and Climate, and Vision for Africa.
