YOUTH CLIMATE AMBASSADORS 2024/2025
In a world where connectivity is becoming increasingly vital, the call for solidarity echoes across all fronts. Today, as we confront the urgent global challenge of climate change, this call resonates stronger than ever. It’s not just about protecting our environment; it’s about safeguarding our collective future. The rallying cry for youth engagement in climate action underscores the profound truth that the climate crisis transcends mere environmental concerns — it’s a call to action that touches every aspect of our lives.
As we embark on this journey of advocacy and activism, we recognize the power of local action in driving global change. That’s why we are thrilled to announce our commitment to fostering youth engagement right here in the Bahamas. By empowering Bahamian youth to take the lead in climate action initiatives, we aim to ignite a spark of change that will radiate far beyond our shores. Through education, advocacy, and community outreach, we will work tirelessly to mobilize young minds and hearts toward a more sustainable future.
Together, as the 2024/2025 Youth Climate Ambassadors, we stand ready to champion the cause of climate action with unwavering dedication and resolve. Let us join hands, unite our voices, and forge a path towards a greener, more equitable world — for ourselves, for future generations, and for the planet we call home.
In solidarity,
Waynisha Saunders & Jervon Sands
JERVON SANDS
Jervon Sands is a 2023 graduate of the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University in Minnesota. He completed his B.A. in Applied Physics summa cum laude. As an undergraduate, Jervon promoted cultural awareness as co-chair of the Archipelago Caribbean Association and
encouraged campus sustainability with the Eco-House community, as an undergraduate. Since graduating he has worked with Yale Young Global Scholars as a resident advisor and served as a Benedictine Volunteer at Colegio San Antonio Abad in Humacao, Puerto Rico. Jervon is passionate
about climate justice. He is excited to amplify the voices of young Bahamians while bolstering climate change response and inspiring national resilience through his work in this role. He possesses research and professional experience in the environmental sector and aims to develop
holistic initiatives that engage and connect Bahamian youth within this sector and beyond. Jervon was recently named the 2024 Commonwealth Caribbean Rhodes Scholar which will afford him graduate studies at Oxford University. At Oxford he aims to understand how small island nations can improve their response to pressing environmental challenges. He is open to connecting with
youth climate activists, organizations, and other actors locally, regionally and globally to facilitate this work.
WAYNISHA SAUNDERS
Waynisha Saunders, a bold and passionate 23-year-old from Nassau, Bahamas, is a renowned activist, humanitarian, and youth leader. She stands as a beacon of inspiration, tirelessly advocating for positive change within her community and beyond. As the founder of impactful organizations like Girls in Faith and Gen-Z Arise, Waynisha empowers young minds to defy limitations and pursue their dreams with unwavering determination. Her journey of empowerment began when she was crowned Miss Teen Bahamas 2017, using her platform to champion the cause of “Youth Empowerment” and inspire a generation to believe in their potential, guided by the words of 1 Timothy 4:12.
In her dedication to global challenges, Waynisha has taken on the role of Climate Youth Ambassador for the Bahamas, passionately advocating for climate action and environmental sustainability. She understands that the fight against climate change is one of solidarity and collective action, and she brings her trademark enthusiasm and determination to this vital cause.
Waynisha’s commitment to social justice extends to her roles as a Women United Representative and U.S Embassy Woman in Politics Representative, where she tirelessly advocates for women’s
rights and gender equality. Additionally, she serves as a Global Youth Ambassador and Mental Health Advocate, amplifying marginalized voices and striving to create a more inclusive society.
Recognized for her outstanding contributions, Waynisha has been honored as a Baha Mar Hero 2021 and Ministry of Youth Rising Star (2016), showcasing her dedication to making a difference. Her story, featured in esteemed publications like “Unlock” (2020) and “She is Light” (2019), serves as a testament to the transformative power of passion and purpose.
In every endeavor, Waynisha embodies resilience, grace, and unwavering determination, inspiring hope and resilience in all who encounter her light.
OUR PLATFORM
- To continue raising awareness to the climate crisis in the Bahamas, particularly among Bahamian youth.
- To collaborate with regional and international youth organizations and programmes in the climate change and the environmental space.
- To provide capacity-building opportunities to allow our Bahamian youth to actively participate in the climate discourse.
- To motivate more young people to become involved in the Action for Climate Empowerment (ACE) Space.
- To continue the National Education & Outreach Programme already established in order to bridge gaps where needed between students and academic institutions.
