The Youth for SDGs scholar position brought the opportunity to have contact and learn from so many communities, including youth leaders, Indigenous groups, and scientists. The internship has taught me about the guiding principles and skills needed for leading an international non-governmental organization, and how partnerships are essential in building long-lasting and impactful movements. It also allowed me to raise my voice on matters that are important to me.

This internship has been formative for me both personally and professionally, and I will carry what I learned with me as I continue my studies and future work in global affairs.

I truly felt like a global citizen through this trip, as I learned about local contexts, stories, and experiences, and realized we are dealing with shared problems with different backdrops, and that we have solidarity, ideas, and hope to share together. I was proud to have shared information on movements coming from the UN and global leadership that explicitly named and documented the commitment to youth leadership globally.

I will cherish forever the friendships I have made during this trip. It has been a unique opportunity to connect, create relationships and network with people all around the world.

We, the youth, have the power to change the course of climate change. With the knowledge we have today, learning from each other and growing together, we symbolize hope for generations to come.

I have truly enjoyed the chance to learn from all of the other youth participants. Their work has given me tremendous insight on how I could effect change in my home community.

I really enjoyed not only learning about environmental issues in the Arctic, but also inspiring passengers onboard.  It was a great opportunity to present in front of passengers and tell them that every small action matters.

This has been a truly unique and inspiring opportunity to meet with passionate individuals from all walks of life working to preserve our oceans and the life within it.