The climate crisis is a siren call demanding urgent action, and the UN Climate Change Conference (COP28) represents a pivotal front in this battle. As a young leader from a youthful population, with Saudi Arabia boasting 67 percent of its population under 35, I attended COP28 in Dubai. This experience as a Generation17 young leader was more than an opportunity; it was a mission to represent and empower youth voices demanding climate justice, demanding climate action from around the world.

Attending the Conference for the first time was an exciting blend of responsibility and opportunity. Within this global arena, my role as a Generation17 young leader allowed me to effectively engage in critical conversations, on different platforms, about our planet's future and bring a fresh, youth-led perspective to these global discussions.

My engagement at COP28 was very enriching. Alongside participating in important discussions, I brought to the table my involvement in impactful youth initiatives like the Muatalaf programme. This programme is a beacon of youth empowerment, encouraging young leaders to create purpose-driven communities and drive sustainable change. It’s a testament to what young people can achieve when given the right tools and opportunities – from marketing and finance to leadership and sustainability. The programme has created 12 vibrant communities driven by passionate young minds dedicating hundreds of hours to making a difference.