By Abigail Headley
When Alisha Koulen stumbled on the opportunity to participate in the pre-COP28 event held in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE), she had no idea it would be a life-changing experience. The October 30 to 31 event was designed to provide a space for facilitating climate change dialogues and collaboration among a diverse group of delegates, party members, and representatives from various constituencies in a single location.
“Representing Guyana as the sole youth delegate was both an honour and a profound responsibility. I felt the pressure, but I knew it was a unique opportunity to share from my country’s perspectives and experiences. I was acutely aware of the significance of this role in advocating for the interests and priorities of Guyana and the Caribbean region as a whole. Overall, it was an empowering experience, but also a source of pride to represent my country in such crucial discussions,” she said.