Climate Change and Leadership Training Successfully Conducted

G-SIG was pleased to invite two special speakers, Dircia Sarmento Belo and Miqueias da Conceição, to share their knowledge with participants on these important topics. During the opening of the training, the executive president stated that the session aimed to enhance young people’s understanding of climate change and its impacts worldwide and in Timor-Leste while also strengthening their leadership and communication skills. “We are conducting this session as a full-day event to help participants deeply understand the concepts of climate change and leadership. G-SIG is working in collaboration with the Youth Climate Justice Fund to equip young people with the skills to use geospatial technology in addressing climate change issues in Timor-Leste. Before utilizing these geospatial technologies, it is crucial for them to first understand climate change concepts,” said the executive president. Additionally, the president emphasized that leadership and community engagement are essential for successfully implementing geospatial technology and responding to climate challenges together with stakeholders engagement.

In the morning session, Dircia Sarmento Belo facilitated an interactive discussion on climate change. Participants learned about the impacts of climate change globally and in Timor-Leste, as well as various mitigation activities carried out worldwide, including in Timor-Leste, to address this pressing issue. Towards the end of the session, the speaker facilitated group discussions where participants identified climate-related problems such as floods, landslides, deforestation, and waste management. These discussions helped participants understand risks and develop response methodologies using geospatial mapping activities and stakeholder engagement. Moreover, participants gained valuable insights from the speaker on environmental protection, aligned with the Laudato Si program.

In the afternoon session, Miqueias da Conceição led discussions on leadership and communication, providing participants with the necessary skills to lead projects effectively. He facilitated conversations about the qualities of a good leader within organizations and groups, offering real-life examples of successful leadership. Additionally, the speaker guided participants in improving their communication skills, particularly in the digital era, using platforms that can support young leaders in their advocacy and initiatives.

At the closing of the training, the G-SIG president expressed deep appreciation for the speakers’ willingness to share their expertise and knowledge with the young participants. They also thanked the participants for their enthusiasm and engagement throughout the sessions.

G-SIG also highlighted that this initiative was made possible through strong support from the Youth Climate Justice Fund, which aims to develop and empower young people to lead GIS technology initiatives in responding to climate change challenges in Timor-Leste.