In a world where climate change continues to shape our future, one thing is clear: today’s youth are at the forefront of the environmental movement. While their passion and energy are undeniable, the role that corporate partners play in supporting these initiatives is often less visible – but no less vital.

The fourth annual Youth Climate Summit, running from November 18 to 23, will again host over 150 students, aged 13 to 22, from public and private schools across Bermuda.

These students come together to engage in a week of learning, discussion, and action, all focused on climate change. This year’s summit promises to be especially inspiring, featuring interactive panel discussions with leaders from the reinsurance, insurance, and global financial sectors, all deeply committed to sustainability and climate action.

But beyond the students’ dedication and the summit's impactful content, none of this would be possible without the strong support of corporate partners. These partnerships are a critical ingredient for success when it comes to climate action.

Corporate partners: more than just sponsors

It’s easy to view corporate partners as financial backers who make events like the YCS possible, but their contributions go far beyond writing a cheque. The real value lies in the expertise, mentorship, and strategic guidance these companies provide. Participating organisations not only fund the event but actively engage with the students by sharing knowledge and experience in climate resilience, sustainability, and corporate responsibility.

For example, at this year's summit, students will have the opportunity to hear directly from professionals at leading firms who are driving change in their industries. These discussions will help young people visualise career paths in climate resilience, sustainability, and environmental conservation. They’ll learn how their interests in Stem, Steam, and even trade skills can play a pivotal role in addressing global environmental challenges. This is more than a classroom lecture – it’s real-world insight into how the next generation can turn their passion for the planet into meaningful careers.

The participation of YCS founding partners Axa XL and HSBC Bermuda ensures that students not only leave the summit more knowledgeable, but also confident their goals can be supported by a network of professionals already paving the way. Their involvement is a powerful reminder that corporate investment in climate solutions goes hand in hand with empowering the next generation of leaders.

Building bridges between youth and industry

This year's summit will also highlight how corporate partners are actively investing in innovative solutions to protect Bermuda and other island communities from the impacts of climate change. For Bermuda’s youth, who are witnessing the environmental vulnerability of their island home, these discussions offer hope and a road map for tackling local challenges with global solutions.

Partners such as Aspen Bermuda, Renaissance Re, and Deloitte have been at the forefront of developing climate strategies that safeguard not only their business interests but also the communities in which they operate. These strategies involve cutting-edge research in sustainability, green technologies, and policies that reduce environmental footprints – efforts that students will learn about first-hand.

Moreover, these companies’ involvement in the summit is not just a show of good corporate citizenship; it’s a strategic move to ensure that tomorrow’s workforce is prepared for the challenges ahead. By showing students how today’s industries are evolving to address climate risks, they provide young people with a clearer vision of how they can align their skills and interests with careers that make a difference.

Inspiring the next generation

The youth who attend the summit leave feeling more informed, inspired, and empowered to take on leadership roles in environmental advocacy. This is, in no small part, due to the powerful examples set by corporate partners. When students see companies like Conduit Re, Axis, Neuberger Berman, and Chubb Bermuda investing both time and resources into climate action, it sends a message: environmental stewardship is not just the responsibility of individuals or governments – it’s a collective effort that spans industries and sectors.

BUEI’s YCS is more than an event; it’s a call to action for young people to recognise their potential in the fight against climate change. But without the support of corporate partners, these efforts would be much harder to sustain. The collaboration between youth leaders and business innovators creates a dynamic force for progress that benefits everyone involved. Together, they are building a bridge to a more sustainable future – one where young people are not just participants but drivers of change.

As we prepare for our fourth YCS, we hope you will encourage the students in your life to attend. They’ll have the chance to learn, engage, and be inspired by the real-world solutions being implemented by corporate leaders, as well as gain insights into how they, too, can play a vital role in the global effort to combat climate change.

We look forward to seeing the impact of this year’s Youth Climate Summit and are grateful to all the companies who make it possible. With corporate partners, we are not just investing in Bermuda’s youth – we are investing in the future of our planet.

• Karla Lacey is the CEO of the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute. BUEI is a registered non-profit that delivers educational programmes and initiatives including the Eco-Schools Bermuda programme, Young Reporters for the Environment, and the Youth Climate Summit. For more information on the Youth Climate Summit, visit www.YCSBda.com