By During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when the world seemed paused and many were retreating into silence, I felt an intense urge to do something meaningful—something big that could bring youth together and shine a spotlight on us, the youth.
That’s when I encountered the term LCOY, a project of YOUNGO, a youth constituency of UNFCCC.
I vividly remember one desperate call I made to my mentor, Bindu Didi. We brainstormed the idea of a grand youth conference—one that wasn’t just about general discussion but one laser-focused on youth and their role in global climate policy, especially the negotiations under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
That one bold step—filling out that form to start the process—was the beginning of something much larger than I had imagined.
Back then, I sensed something was missing. We, the youth of Nepal, were not part of the policy conversations that would shape our future. It felt like the climate decisions were happening over our heads, without us. I wanted to change that.
At the time, I was involved with the (LCOY) working group under YOUNGO—the official youth constituency of the UNFCCC. This gave me the insight and confidence that focusing discussions specifically on youth engagement in climate policy was not only necessary, but also possible. The idea of organizing Nepal’s very first youth-centered climate conference took root.
That one bold step—filling out that form to start the process—was the beginning of something much larger than I had imagined.
Today, as I look back, I am proud of the legacy we began. The conference is no longer just a one-time event. It has blossomed into an annual tradition that continues to empower young people across Nepal to speak up, engage deeply, and shape climate policy on national and international stages.
Our conversations have evolved into a movement that connects youth voices with decision-makers, bridging the gap we once saw so clearly.
But the journey didn’t stop there. Inspired by the transformative power of this conference, Nepal Climate Hub was launched—a vibrant, youth-driven platform dedicated to climate action and education.
Nepal Climate Hub serves as a dynamic space where young environmental educators, activists, and professionals come together to share knowledge, develop skills, and amplify youth-led solutions to our country’s most pressing climate challenges.
The story of LCOY Nepal and Nepal Climate Hub is really a story of hope — hope that when youth come together with a shared vision, genuine leadership, and sustained commitment, change is possible.
Reflecting on this journey, it has been an incredible learning experience to witness how youth can collectively raise their voices and influence climate policy both nationally and internationally. Organizing and participating in LCOY Nepal has taught me that real change begins when young people come together with shared vision, leadership, and courage to act.
This movement is not just about conferences but about building ongoing connections, nurturing skills, and turning ideas into concrete climate actions.
If you want to learn more about the Local Conference of Youth—what it is, why it matters, and how you can be part of this vibrant movement—please visit the Nepal Climate Hub website. It’s the best place to stay updated, connect with fellow youth leaders, and discover opportunities to join the next chapter of this inspiring journey.
If you’re interested or want details on how to participate in LCOY Nepal 2025 happening in mid September, please comment below, and I’ll be happy to share more! Let’s keep walking this path together.
-Monica Neupane
Read More From Monica Neupane:
How Microplastics Are Polluting Our Planet and Future | Monica Neupane
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