BukSU Information Officer Represents PH at Global Climate Youth Hub in Germany

Bukidnon State University’s (BukSU) Information Officer Ms. Nova Thirdy E. Agravante was selected to represent the Philippines among other 34 nationals at the ‘Action for Climate Empowerment Youth Hub (ACE AYH)’ at Bonn, Germany, in June 2024.

The three-day United Nations event is designed to equip young climate activists with the communication skills necessary for effective advocacy and negotiation.

Agravante, a BukSU Development Communication graduate whose interest for the environment began during her undergraduate internship at the Bukidnon Environment and Natural Resources Office (BENRO), in 2011, was among a select group of participants who had the opportunity to learn from climate experts and connect with like-minded individuals from around the world.

Her previous roles at BENRO and her involvement in socio-civic organizations like the Rotary Club and the BukSU Institute for Environmental Governance (IEG) project have prepared her for this important role.

Since 2021, she has been remotely and actively contributing at the YOUNGO (Youth Non-Government Organizations) which led her to be selected at the AYH as part of the SB60. YOUNGO is the official children and youth constituency of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). YOUNGO is a vibrant, global network of children and youth activists (up to 35 years) as well as youth NGOs, who contribute to shaping the intergovernmental climate change policies and strive to empower youth to formally bring their voices to the UNFCCC processes.

The AYH provided a platform for participants to develop their skills in crafting compelling narratives, and building strategic relationships. Agravante participated in workshops and activities focused on actor mapping, six handshakes, and-but-therefore storytelling, 40-second elevator pitches, and a climate walk in Düsseldorf.

“The Bonn Climate Conference – ACE Youth Hub 2024 was a life-changing experience. Personally, it’s fired me up to continue the work my workplace has been doing on the ground. We stand firm on the sacred utterance, ‘Climate Action Now!’, she said.

Agravante’s participation in the AYH not only equipped her with essential communication tools but also inspired her to continue her work on climate action. Upon her return to the Philippines, she is poised to contribute to BukSU’s and the country’s efforts in combating climate change. (Dr. Joanna Ruth S. Paloma/ Head, Information Services Management Staff)