About YEA
To position Hong Kong’s younger generation at the forefront of creating a more sustainable future, Civic Exchange created HongKong2050isNow Young Environment Ambassador (YEA) Programme, which runs every summer.
This initiative fosters greater awareness of climate change among Hong Kong’s youth and equips the next generation of climate leaders with comprehensive knowledge in climate science, design-thinking skills, and invaluable hands-on experience.
Launched in 2021, this programme focuses on educating and engaging local students in Forms 3 to 5. We believe that the future of climate action rests in the hands of young leaders who will drive innovation and navigate through uncertain climate scenarios.
Programme Summary
Over the course of five months, the programme equips participants with knowledge across four key topics: decarbonisation, nature-based solutions, waste management, and sustainable consumption, aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 and 17.
The 2026 edition builds on feedback from previous YEA participants, who expressed strong interest in deeper engagement, structured project mentorship, professional exposure, and continued development opportunities beyond the core training.
In response, this year’s programme strengthens its Learn–Act–Lead framework. Participants will receive expert-led design thinking and project development training, engage in curated field visits that demonstrate sustainability in practice, and take part in the Human Library series connecting them with professionals from NGOs, government, business, and professional bodies.
By designing and implementing their own sustainable projects under professional mentorship, participants will gain valuable hands-on experience, build leadership and workplace competencies, and contribute meaningfully to environmental solutions as youth changemakers.
Graduates may continue through the YEA Alumni and selected students may further develop their initiatives under the YEA Impact Lab.
Climate Literacy
Strengthen youth understanding of climate science, biodiversity, and sustainability challenges at local, national and global levels
Leadership Development
Equip students with design thinking, project management, collaboration, and communication skills
Community-based Action
Support students in developing and delivering impactful sustainability projects within their schools and communities
Career Exploration
Provide exposure to sustainability professionals, green career pathways, internship opportunities
LEARN-ACT-LEAD Phases
The YEA programme is structured into three progressive phases: LEARN, ACT, and LEAD, spanning from July to November and beyond. Together, these phases cultivate a community of informed, action-oriented Young Environment Ambassadors equipped to drive real sustainability impact.
Through interactive workshops, field exposure, and professional dialogue, participants develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence required to become Climate Changemakers.
Applying these competencies, students design and implement sustainable projects with structured mentorship from Civic Exchange and its partners.
LEARN
Learning Phase (July-August 2026)
Throughout 8 sessions, participants gain an understanding of basic climate science while exploring four main topics: decarbonisation, nature-based solutions, waste management, and sustainable consumption. They develop a leadership skillset encompassing design thinking, project management, public speaking, and stakeholder engagement. Additionally, they become more aware of local case studies in addressing climate change, including government-led initiatives, environmental NGOs, corporate sustainability strategies, and biodiversity action efforts aligned with global frameworks.
ACT
Acting Phase (September-November 2026)
With strengthened knowledge and skills, participants work in teams to implement 3-month sustainability projects. These may include community initiatives, awareness campaigns, applied research, or school-based interventions. Civic Exchange and industry professionals provide structured mentorship, feedback sessions, and peer learning opportunities to ensure projects deliver measurable and meaningful outcomes.
LEAD
Leading Phase (November 2026 and beyond)
The programme culminates in a closing ceremony recognising the achievements of each Young Environment Ambassador and the impact of their projects. Beyond completion, graduates may continue their development through the YEA Alumni, with selected participants advancing their initiatives under the YEA Impact Lab. Outstanding ambassadors may also be considered for internship opportunities with Civic Exchange and partner organisations, extending their leadership journey and professional growth.
Through the course of the programme,
participants will gain:
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Leadership skills including public speaking, design thinking, project development, and stakeholder engagement
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Hands-on project implementation experience under structured mentorship from experienced professionals
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Networking opportunities with sustainability leaders across government, business, academia, and civil society
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Applied knowledge in climate science, biodiversity, circular economy, and sustainable development aligned with global frameworks
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Ability to initiate and lead their own sustainable projects, delivering measurable impact
Upon programme completion,
participants will receive:
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A certificate of completion*
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For outstanding participants, a chance to intern with Civic Exchange’s partner organisations
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An opportunity to win exciting prizes
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Eligibility to join the YEA Alumni for continued learning and professional exposure
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For outstanding participants, consideration for internship placements with Civic Exchange and partner organisations
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The YEA Impact Lab provides participants with the opportunity to advance their projects in real life by submitting proposals. Funding will be available for selected initiatives.
*Participants must achieve an 80% attendance rate, pass the test and complete the group project
Programme Rundown
Induction
Date: 18 July 2026 (Saturday)
Time: 10:30-12:30
Venue: Hong Kong Maritime Museum, Central Pier 8
Highlights:
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Introduction of the programme
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Welcome speech by the Guest of Honour
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Sharing by YEA Alumni
Ideal Candidate Profile
YEA welcomes motivated secondary students who:
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Secondary 3-5 students (going into S.4-6)
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Demonstrate genuine interest in sustainability
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Are curious, proactive, and open-minded
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Show leadership potential and collaborative spirit
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Are committed to developing and implementing a sustainability project
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Intend to bring impact back to their school community
Prior experience is not required. Commitment and readiness to act are essential.
Why Schools Should Nominate Students
YEA is a structured leadership development platform that enhances student competencies while strengthening a school’s sustainability culture.
By nominating students, schools can:
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Cultivate student leaders capable of initiating campus sustainability projects
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Align development with international, national and local sustainability frameworks
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Strengthen student portfolios for university and career pathways
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Expand networks through engagement with sustainability professionals
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Demonstrate commitment to whole-person education and climate responsibility
Apply Now
Fee: Free of charge, however a HKD500 refundable deposit will be collected upon acceptance. The deposit will be returned upon successful completion of the programme, which requires a minimum of 80% attendance, pass the test and completing the group project.
Language: Cantonese.
Application deadline: Friday 26 June 2026.
Please fill in and submit the online application form.
Funding Organisations
Education Partner and Co-Organiser
Supporting Organisations
