Small island nations like the Seychelles are among the least responsible yet most vulnerable to climate change, which is expected to only worsen if no appropriate action is taken. Growing up, I witnessed some of the most devastating effects of climate change happen right before my eyes. I saw rising sea levels wash away my favorite beach, I felt the temperature rise to unbearable degrees due to extreme weather patterns, I saw masses of corals get bleached, endemic species go extinct, and friends and families get displaced because of climate- related threats.
In 2013, when a flood struck Anse aux Pins, Seychelles, I was part of the response team. Being an avid volunteer, I was already well involved with local non-governmental organizations such as the Red Cross Society of Seychelles. Heavy rains brought by the tropical storm Felleng combined with a high tide, resulting in severe flooding, extensive devastation to our coastline areas, and widespread damage to infrastructures.
This incident was a wake-up call for us islanders. Attending international youth events also made me realize that issues faced by Seychelles were not unique to us, but shared by other small island nations. This led me to co-found the SIDS Youth AIMS Hub (SYAH), a regional network of youth from seven small island nations. We have collaborated on youth-led projects that have taken place simultaneously across our islands to make our communities, countries, regions, and the planet better places. Through the work of SYAH, I feel my voice is being heard. I’ve felt extremely empowered and like I’m making an important contribution to the world. The chances to meet like-minded individuals have further motivated me to pursue my vision of the planet we need and what future generations will inherit. I would like to see more Seychellois and young people in general empowered to make a difference: demanding more of the government, advocating for green energy, and undertaking sustainable practices to reduce carbon footprints.
My dream is to live in a world where everybody is working to protect today’s resources for tomorrow’s generation. I dream that the world will finally hear the pleas of small island nations and increase their efforts to address climate change. Our very livelihood is at stake, and we need all the help we can get—small and big.
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