15 resilient communities YOUTH CLIMATE SUMMIT Another key strand of the Climate Leaders programme is the Youth Climate Summit, which was held in Barrow in 2025. Secondary age students led workshops for younger pupils on topics such as fast fashion. Two of those taking part were Marley Brafield and Lucy Grecic, both 18. The pair first got involved with the work of CDEC in 2023, helping to organise a litter pick in Kendal. At the most recent Youth Climate Summit, Marley ran a workshop on biodiversity mapping, while Lucy interviewed other young people to create a film about the event. Marley said being involved with Climate Leaders has really boosted their confidence, particularly when it comes to public speaking, and helped them decide which career path to follow. “The programme has inspired me to to take ecology and conservation at uni. I want to make my impact; I want to do stuff for the planet and I think the best way to do that is being knowledgeable and hopefully be able to inspire other people.” CONNECTED CUMBRIA Lucy also led on a project called Connected Cumbria, visiting businesses and charities across Cumbria to photograph the work they are doing to build a fair and more sustainable world, then displaying these images in an exhibition. She agreed that being involved with the programme has increased her confidence and made her more optimistic about the future of the planet. I was really anxious but now I feel more hopeful. CDEC put me in touch with so many people and groups doing good things. Marley Brafield Lucy Grecic 15
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