Build Leadership

Group of EE 30 Under 30 awardees at NAAEE conference

The GEEP is committed to developing leaders who have the 21st century skills required to address the complex sustainability challenges we face. We work to strengthen the leadership pipeline to enable environmental education change makers to develop and succeed. To accomplish this, we provide awards, professional development opportunities, and serve as a convener to bring the brightest environmental education minds together. 

Youth Innovation Challenge 

In 2021, we launched the Youth Innovation Challenge, a program in partnership between GEEP and the Taiwan Ocean Conservation Administration (OCA). The Youth Innovation Challenge invited applicants from 15 to 30 years of age to propose a solution to address climate change, marine litter, or both issues, using environmental education as a key element. Twelve YIC finalists received wide recognition through social media and at GEEP’s 2021 Asia Pacific Virtual EE Forum, and four YIC winners received a $1,000 USD prize for their solution. 

Learn more about the Youth Innovation Challenge here. 

EE 30 Under 30

Since 2016, EE 30 Under 30 has recognized 30 individuals every year from around the world who are making a difference through environmental education. The program works to shine a spotlight on the inspiring next generation of leaders, and support them with a network, resources, and other professional development opportunities to advance their careers. The alumni span a wide range of countries, sectors, and environmental issues. This program is made possible by the GEEP, North American Association for Environmental Education, and US Forest Service.

Learn more about the program here. Download the brochure here.

In 2022, drawing on the EE 30 Under 30 model and with support from the GEEP and NAAEE, Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful launched the Northern Ireland 30 Under 30 Climate Change-Makers program—the first of its kind existing in the UK—to empower and engage young people making a difference for the environment. Learn more about the NI 30 Under 30 here.

  • Get to know EE 30 Under 30!

    EE 30 Under 30 recognizes leaders under 30 years old from around the world working in their communities to address environmental challenges using the power of education.

  • Convening Thought Leaders

    The GEEP hosts in-person meetings throughout the year to convene environmental education thought leaders around specific topics. Through an annual GEEP Advisory Group meeting held in a different region each year, Advisors work to advance the GEEP’s strategic priorities. Advisors and other invited delegates also meet during the international NAAEE Annual Conference to discuss key environmental education issues and to promote collaboration and networking. All meetings are by invitation-only.

     

    GEEP Advisors and delegates gather in Spokane, Washington, US (October 2018)