Our Speakers and Agenda

Our Speakers

Ruth Scott

Conference MC

I'm delighted to host the Codling Wind Park and Wicklow County Council 'Our Climate, Our Future' youth conference and I'm looking forward to being part of the journey supporting the youth of Wicklow to be part of the climate challenge solution.

Ruth is one of Ireland’s most professional, well-known, and respected media personalities. She has a knack for making people instantly comfortable, regardless of the magnitude and topic of the event. A Roscommon native and University of Limerick graduate, she has had a starring role on the 2fm radio schedule for almost 20 years. Ruth currently hosts one of RTE 2fms biggest radio shows, which often features in the lists for the Top 20 most-listened-to radio programmes in the country.

Mary Fleming -Founder and CEO of Change Clothes

Founder and CEO of Change Clothes

Mary Fleming is the Founder and CEO of Change Clothes, a social enterprise clothing reuse hub on Thomas Street, Dublin. Change Clothes works  to prevent clothing waste at community level before it becomes a global problem, and creates opportunity and change in the process. Earlier this year Change Clothes won the ‘Emerging Category’ at the RDS Circular Economy Awards. 

Mary holds a certificate in Circular Economy from MTU and through her work with Change Clothes, she is a Sustainable Development Goals Ambassador 24/25 with the Department of the Environment, Climate & Communications, and sits on the Departments Textiles Advisory Group.

Nina McGowen -Freediver and Environmental Advocate

Freediver and Environmental Advocate

Nina took home Gold for Ireland and a world record at the Freediving World Championships in 2022. Reaching new heights, and depths, in 2022, freediver Nina made national headlines for her record-breaking achievements by diving to 43m in two minutes and 10 seconds. Making this remarkable feat even more impressive is the fact that she only took up the sport in 2019.

Beyond her achievements in the water, Nina is also a passionate advocate for environmental conservation and climate change activism. Through her platform as a freediver and artist, she raises awareness about the urgent need to protect our oceans and preserve the planet for future generations.

Nina McGowen’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and the human spirit. As she continues to push the boundaries of what is possible, she inspires others to embrace their passions, overcome obstacles, and make a positive impact on the world.

David Lawlor - Green Ocean Coffee & Champion of Environmental Sustainability

Green Ocean Coffee & Champion of Environmental Sustainability

David Lawlor champions environmental sustainability through impactful Green Ocean marine initiatives across Ireland. Focusing on Dublin Bay and Clew Bay, he collaborates with communities, universities, and local councils to drive meaningful local action and highlight the role of marine environments in combating climate change. David’s work empowers communities to take steps toward a greener, more sustainable future for Ireland’s coastlines.
Victory Luke - Trinity College Student & Youth Sustainability Ambassador

Trinity College Student & Youth Sustainability Ambassador

Victory is a 3rd Year film and history student at Trinity College Dublin and a Climate Action spokesperson. 

“I want to share my journey in the climate space because it is important to show young people they aren’t alone, and that there is strength in numbers. As well as that, I’ve encountered and experienced so many amazing people and opportunities through this work! I’d love to have more people join this space.”

Leah O Donoghue, Conference Illustrator

Conference Illustrator

Leah O Donoghue is a Visual Notetaker and Artist from West Cork. Through her Note Taking practice, she doodles, distils and democratises information – making it accessible to everyone in the room. Leah is a Gaeilgóir and has a real grá for promoting the language. You’ll catch Leah doodling all over Ireland, but she is currently based in Limerick.
 
“I love to doodle at all sorts of conferences, but I’m always excited to work in Climate-conscious spaces. It’s great to learn about the positive advancements in the field and to be part of the change to a greener future for all.”
 
10.00
Youth Climate Conference opens
10.15
Official Opening

Host Ruth Scott and East Glendalough Youth Climate Committee

10.25
Welcome Address
Councillor Paul O’Brien, Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council

Paul O’Brien, Wicklow County Council Cathaoirleach

10.35
Why Is Climate Action Needed?
Scott Sutherland, Director Codling Wind Park

Scott Sutherland, Codling Wind Park Project Director

10.45
Our Climate, Our Future
East Glendalough School Youth Committee

Noah, Angus, Síofra, Evie, Daniel, Kristina, Hayley, Grace, Lucy, Tom, Ruby, Amelia, Rosie, Isabella, Sarah, and Mia.
10.55
Preventing Clothing Waste At Community Level Before It Becomes a Global Problem
Mary Fleming -Founder and CEO of Change Clothes

Mary Fleming, CEO of Change Clothes

11.15
Interactive Poll

Are We Doing Enough? Have Your Say

11.25
How To Turn Coffee Into Clean Ocean Beds
David Lawlor - Green Ocean Coffee & Champion of Environmental Sustainability

David Lawlor, Green Ocean Coffee

11.45
Break
12.00
Panel Discussion

Exploring Career Paths in Climate Action

12.20
My Sustainability Journey
Victory Luke - Trinity College Student & Youth Sustainability Ambassador

Victory Luke, Youth Sustainability Ambassador

12.40
A World Worth Saving
Nina McGowen -Freediver and Environmental Advocate

Nina McGowen, Irish Freediving World Champion & Climate Activist

13.00
Conference Close

Our Agenda

Our Climate, Our Future

Wicklow's 2024 Youth Climate Conference
East Glendalough School, Wicklow Town
November 26th, 10am - 1pm

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