A group of youth, part of the 2024 Arctic Youth Dialogues, posing for a group photo.

© Youth Together for Arctic Futures

Events

Youth Together sessions at the 2025 Arctic Youth Conference

  • Arctic youth

The Arctic Youth Conference, hosted by the Norwegian Chairship Arctic Council, will take place 25-26 January 2025. The EU-funded Youth Together for Arctic Futures project will lead two sessions focusing on: (1) young researchers and knowledge holders in Arctic science, including co-development of knowledge and (2) youth leadership in the Arctic. It will take place in Tromsø, Norway, ahead of the Arctic Frontiers conference.

 

Youth sitting in conference hall. The youth are participating in an Youth Together for Arctic Futures event at the EU.

© Youth Together for Arctic Futures

Session: Inclusive Arctic Science: Navigating Ethics, Power, and Collaboration

Conference topic: Young researchers and knowledge holders in Arctic science: Co-development of knowledge
When: Saturday 25 January 2025, 15:45-16:45
Where: Tromsø, Norway, Radisson Blu in room Tromsøsal 2

Are you passionate about Arctic research, whether you’re a student, early-career researcher, or a community member involved in research? Whether your focus is on social or natural science—or even if you’re simply interested in learning more—this session is for you!  Let’s explore how individuals such as yourself can collaborate and co-develop inclusive Arctic research!  We will focus on the ethical aspects, respectful communication and collaboration when doing research and producing knowledge about the Arctic, especially around climate and nature. Who has the power to shape these narratives? How can young researchers and participants tackle existing power dynamics to ensure their research will empower people in the Arctic? Join us for a session of learning, discussion, and shared reflection, offering new inspiration and insights for everyone involved in or curious about Arctic research and knowledge production.

Moderator: Lisa Grosfeld, Project Officer at the Association of Polar Early Career Scientists – Registered

Panelists:

  • Elen Ravna, Masters student, Indigenous Studies UiT
  • Maël Manuel Bueno, Doctoral Research Fellow, UiT; Member & Co-chair of the Board of Directors, Arctic Youth Network
  • Olga Ievleva, PhD Researcher, Arctic Centre, University of Groningen; Chair of the Board of Directors, Arctic Youth Network

Organizers:

  • Youth Together for Arctic Futures
  • Arctic Mayors’ Forum
  • Arctic Youth Network
  • Association of Polar Early Career Scientists
  • European Youth Parliament
  • Saami Council
  • Tromsø Kommune
  • WWF Global Arctic Programme
An image from above of seven youth at a workshop. There are post-it notes on a wooden table. The youth are involved in a discussion.

© Youth Together for Arctic Futures

Workshop: What youth bring to the table in policymaking

Conference topic: Youth leadership in the Arctic
When:
Sunday 26 January 2025, 12:30-13:30
Where:
Tromsø, Norway, Radisson Blu in room Tromsøsal 2

Including youth in policy processes is a legal obligation or ambition in many Arctic states. While it’s often said that youth perspectives inspire fresh thinking and challenge conventional approaches, what does this mean in practice? Join us for an interactive session that explores the unique contributions of youth leadership in policy-making across scales. Participants will be challenged to delve into the various ways that youths’ creativity, innovation, and passion drive meaningful change.

If you are interested in the transformative potential of youth leadership, this session will provide valuable insights and inspiration. Come and discover how youth leadership is not just the future but a force in the present.

What to Expect:

  • Inspiring Stories: Hear accounts from young leaders who have impacted their fields, showcasing the power of youth-driven initiatives.
  • Breakout session: Engage in dynamic conversations in small groups where we’ll unlock the uniqueness of youth perspectives, highlighting how youth challenge and reshape conventional ideas.
  • Audience feedback: Get an impression of the group’s thinking through interactive polls and word clouds during the session.

Moderator: Sissa Palmquist, Project Manager Youth Together for Arctic Futures, WWF Global Arctic Programme

Speakers:

  • Miguel Roncero, International Relations Officer (EU Arctic policy), DG MARE, European Commission
  • Gilbert Castellanos. U.S Head of Delegation to CAFF, Arctic Council
  • Elle Nystad, Leader of NSR-Nuorat youth organisation
  • Vilde Furuhaug Westby, MSc Governance of Sustainability, Leiden University, Former President of European Youth Parliament Norway

Organizers:

  • Youth Together for Arctic Futures
  • Arctic Mayors’ Forum
  • Arctic Youth Network
  • Association of Polar Early Career Scientists
  • European Youth Parliament
  • Saami Council
  • Tromsø Kommune
  • WWF Global Arctic Programme

This publication was funded by the European Union. Its contents are the sole responsibility of the WWF Global Arctic Programme and partners and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union.

By WWF Global Arctic Programme

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