The CABES team, led by Prof Mekuria and Dr. Kazaba, attended the 6th IPBES Capacity Building Forum in Nairobi on May 12th, joined by our SPIBES MSc candidates, Angelina Serwaa and Andrew Orina.

The forum’s theme was “Considerations and efforts to develop youth capacities on the findings of IPBES assessments and engagement in the science-policy interface on biodiversity and nature’s contributions to people.” Angelina emphasized the importance of youth in determining the world’s future, reminding us that “we do not inherit the earth from our ancestors; we borrow it from our children.” To that aim, she described the roles that youths may play in the science-policy interface, such as elevating youth voices, strengthening science communication skills, encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration, and cultivating youth leadership. All of this can contribute to a more inclusive and successful IPBES process that really reflects the needs and aspirations of all people, both now and in the future.