“The San Antonio Mayor’s Youth Engagement Council began in 2020 to foster and include the voices of youth in the execution of our City’s first Climate Action and Adaptation Plan. Since then, the advocacy of the Council members have driven meaningful progress—from advancing renewable energy initiatives to engaging new and diverse communities in climate resilience. I hope our work serves as a bright example to other cities that when we prioritize youth voices, we create a healthier future for all.”
Ron Nirenberg, San Antonio Mayor
In its fifth year, a dynamic group of San Antonio high school students was chosen for the 2024–2025 Mayor’s Youth Engagement Council for Climate Initiatives. 32 Council members engaged with city leaders, nonprofit experts, and community changemakers to deepen their understanding of local sustainability challenges and develop solutions to create meaningful change. From touring urban gardens and nature sanctuaries to exploring food justice, sustainable transportation, and advocacy strategies, these young leaders developed their skills and a profound sense of agency in shaping a more equitable future.
“The most important thing I learned from participating in EcoRise programs
and studying environmental sustainability this year is that small, local actions can
have a powerful impact. Through hands-on projects and real-world problem-solving, I
discovered how issues like waste reduction, energy efficiency, and water conservation
are connected to larger environmental challenges like climate change.”
24–25 San Antonio Council Member
Facilitated by EcoRise in partnership with the City of San Antonio, the Council’s mission is to activate San Antonio’s next generation of climate champions by providing them with tools to engage in community issues around climate, environmental policy, and environmental justice. This year, Council members learned from the City of San Antonio’s Garza Community Center, Office of Sustainability, and VIA Metropolitan Transit, as well as from Eco-Centro, the First Unitarian Universalist Association, Gardopia Gardens, Guadalupe Community Center, the Indigenous Cultures Institute, the San Antonio Food Bank, and the San Antonio River Foundation. At the end of the program, 94% of the Council members reported being more aware of educational opportunities (vocational training and/or college) that can lead to green jobs or careers.
A hallmark of the San Antonio Council experience is the creation of youth-led community advocacy projects. These projects, driven by learning experiences and developed in small teams, address local environmental justice issues with innovation and care. At the 7th Annual San Antonio Student Innovation Showcase, hosted by EcoRise at the UTSA Downtown Campus, students proudly presented their projects to community members, city officials—including Mayor Ron Nirenberg—and local organizations. The result: bold ideas, meaningful collaborations, and a celebration of youth leadership in climate action.
Explore the Council’s projects and how each impacted the community by clicking through the sections below.
🥬 Fighting Food Insecurity with Gardening Kits and a Community Pantry
In response to growing concerns around food insecurity, this team launched “The Pantry Project,” a grassroots initiative designed to empower San Antonio families to grow their own food. They installed a community pantry at Woodard Park and distributed gardening kits filled with seeds, soil, and easy-to-use tools to encourage self-sufficiency and homegrown nutrition. Inspired by the work of local leaders like Community First and Gardopia Gardens, their project paired mutual aid with education—nourishing both bodies and minds.
Alexa G (she/her), 17
Hello, my name is Alexa, and I’m a student at the Young Women’s Leadership Academy. I’m eager to join this Council to become more engaged in my community and make a positive impact. Additionally, I hope to connect with others who share similar interests and goals. This is my second year on the Council, representing District 3.
Camila S (she/her), 16
My name is Camila! I am a junior at Tom C. Clark High School and represent District 5 in San Antonio, Texas. I’m sixteen years old, of Mexican descent, and a part of my high school’s drill team. I absolutely adore my dance team—it’s a huge part of my life, besides my loving family.
Jordan J (he/him), 15
My name is Jordan. I’m currently a sophomore at Young Men’s Leadership Academy, where I enjoy learning everything there is to know about chemistry, history, and of course, football. I’ve lived in the inner city of San Antonio my whole life. On the Council, I represent District 5. My hobbies are fishing, hunting, and listening to good music. My favorite things to do are attending church Sunday mornings with my family and then eating a good meal.
Joy M (she/her), 15
My name is Joy, and I am a 15-year-old homeschool student. I am very passionate about the future of my community, so participating in this program is very important to me. I’m an enthusiastic life-long learner. I am excited to be part of the Youth Climate Council and represent District 5.
Saadhana V (she/her), 17
My name is Saadhana, and I am a senior at Ronald Reagan High School. My interests are in international law, music, and hiking. I love public speaking and getting to know new people, and I’m really excited to be a returning member of the Council, representing District 9.
🧺 Creating Hygiene Kits for Women Experiencing Homelessness
To address the critical shortage of hygiene products and essentials in local shelters, this team organized a donation drive focused on supporting women experiencing homelessness. Through school-based fundraisers and community outreach, they collected over 200 items including feminine hygiene products, blankets, and clothing to donate to local organizations, Black Book Sex Ed and Heaven for Hope. Their project not only provided tangible support but also raised awareness about period poverty and the role of community action in advancing health and resilience.
Julian “JJ” S (no preferred pronouns), 16
My name is Julian or JJ. I am a junior at John Paul Stevens High School and have previously been in the Mayor’s Youth Council the last two years. I like to hang out with my friends, play soccer, and sculpt
Lorenzo P (he/him), 17
I’m a senior at Marshall Law and Medical Services High School, specializing in Legal Governance and Public Administration. During the height of the pandemic, I became passionate about the critical issues affecting San Antonio’s schools and most vulnerable communities, including funding models and services for people experiencing homelessness. Since then, I’ve interned for Congressman Henry Cuellar, spoken as a youth panelist at The State of Education in San Antonio, and studied environmental justice in Washington, DC. Last summer, I served as a Green Careers Academy intern at Eco Centro and helped manage the Garcia Street Urban Farm. I returned to the Mayor’s Youth Council this year to continue researching and advocating for a more sustainable, climate-resilient San Antonio. This is my second year on the Council, representing District 8.
Tanishkaa D (she/her), 15
Hello! My name is Tanishkaa, and I am very excited to be here! My goals for this year include volunteering to help the community, building stronger bonds with those around me, and making a meaningful impact. I hope to achieve some of these goals through this program.
True (she/her) G, 17
Hi! My name is True, and I’m a senior at IDEA Brackenridge. I represent District 4, and I hope to address and bring awareness to how marginalized groups are affected by climate change. I’m interested in finding ways to provide affordable resources and methods to combat climate change locally.
Vex Z (she/her), 17
I’m Kaitlyn or Vex, a senior at Clark High School, representing District 8. I wanted to join the Council to help give voice to my community and assist in the changes they wish to see—as well as my own. This is my second year on the Council.
🐝 Transforming Lawns to Support Pollinators and Urban Biodiversity
This group tackled the loss of urban biodiversity by teaching their communities how to transform suburban lawns into thriving ecosystems filled with native plants, pollinator-friendly flowers, and water features to support local wildlife. Through hands-on restoration work and a step-by-step Instagram guide (check out @projectgreenscape for tips!), they educated the public on how to create sustainable, low-maintenance yards that conserve water and eliminate harmful chemicals. Their project not only revitalized a patch of land—it sparked a broader call to action for San Antonio residents to rethink what a healthy yard can look like.
Aubrey M (she/her), 16
My name is Aubrey, and I am 16 years old. I currently attend Warren High School as an 11th grader and represent District 6. This year, I hope to work with EcoRise and the cohort to build and strengthen the community’s engagement with the current battle against climate change.
Beatrice R (any), 17
I’m a senior at John Marshall High School, excited to pursue forestry and conservation at university in the fall of 2025. Throughout high school, I’ve participated in many clubs and organizations focused on community service and outreach. This is my second year on the Council, representing District 5.
Dazzel M (he/him), 15
My name’s Dazzel. I am very determined in what I do, I love animals, and I like receiving different perspectives. I’m a 10th grader at Young Men’s Leadership Academy and represent District 2.
Lesly H (she/her), 17
I’m a senior at Thomas Jefferson High School and represent District 1. This is my first year on the Council.
Rowan N (she/her), 17
I’m a senior at the NESA Magnet Program at LEE High School, where I double major in dance and musical theatre. While my passion is in the arts, I discovered a love for environmental issues after taking an AP Environmental Science class and starting an environmental awareness club. I hope to study city planning and sustainability in college next year. I feel privileged to be from San Antonio and to serve on this Council, contributing to something greater. This is my second year on the Council, representing District 2.
⚡️ Promoting Renewable Energy Upgrades for Small Businesses
This team set out to “re-power” San Antonio by raising awareness of renewable energy and energy efficiency among local small businesses. They partnered with ReWorksSA, a division of the City of San Antonio’s Solid Waste Management Department, to promote sustainable upgrades like LED lighting and energy consultations. Their work directly engaged restaurants, schools, and community centers to share how small changes can yield big environmental and financial impacts. Along the way, they discovered that meaningful conversations and community connections were key to shifting mindsets and inspiring action.
Angela H (she/her), 16
Hello, I’m Angela, and I’m a junior at Ronald Reagan High School. I’m excited to be part of this year’s Council, representing District 9, and to learn more about taking climate action within our community. In my free time, you can find me playing tennis, hiking, or reading a good book.
Delia E (she/her), 16
I’m a junior at CAST Tech High School, extremely passionate about cultural arts, the environment, and helping my community! I’m always eager to learn more and take on new opportunities! This year, I am representing District 5.
Ever G (he/him), 14
My name is Ever. I live in San Antonio and go to CAST Tech High School, where I’m a 9th grader. I enjoy storm chasing and coding. I’m strong in math-based subjects and do well in all my classes. One day, I hope to become a professional storm chaser and help those affected by extreme weather. I’m representing District 7.
Roland S (he/him), 16
Hello, my name is Roland. I’m an 11th grader at Judson Early College Academy and represent District 2. I wanted to join this Council to help preserve San Antonio and promote sustainability through action and advocacy at a city-wide level.
Saanvi A (she/her), 16
Hi! I’m a junior at BASIS Shavano and a returning member of the Youth Council who represents District 9. My passion for healthy living and admiration for nature’s beauty led me to return to the Council in hopes of learning more about sustainability efforts in San Antonio and how I can contribute.
🚨 Building Climate Resilience Hubs in Schools for Emergency Preparedness
In partnership with local school districts, San Antonio youth launched a micro-initiative to turn public schools into Urban Resilience Hubs—safe, trusted spaces that support communities during emergencies. Inspired by the City’s Resilience Hub Division, the team raised awareness, shared resources, and engaged school leaders across the city to build preparedness at the grassroots level. Through collaboration and advocacy, they’re helping ensure every student, family, and neighbor has access to safety, support, and resilience in times of crisis.
Esmeralda C (she/her), 17
I am a senior at East Central High School, representing District 7. This is my first year on the Council.
Jocelyn T (she/her), 16
I’m Jocelyn, a junior at Judson Early College Academy with aspirations in nursing or neuroscience. I’m passionate about healthcare, environmentalism, and community leadership. I currently serve as Vice-President of Student Council and lead EcoScholars. Outside of school, I volunteer at the hospital and stay active in my church and various clubs. In the Council, I represent District 5.
Kayla D (she/her), 17
Hi, I’m Kayla, a senior at Madla/Davis Early College High School. I was born in San Antonio and love studying literature and film. I’m passionate about being an engaged member of society and giving back to my community. This year, I’ll represent District 5 on the Council.
Olivia A (she/her), 17
I’m a senior at the Young Women’s Leadership Academy, representing District 5. I joined the Council to collaborate with others who share my passion for raising ecological awareness in San Antonio. My commitment to environmental preservation comes from the time I spend outdoors and my desire to protect these spaces for future generations. This is my second year on the Council.
🚌 Promoting Clean Transportation Through Transit Education and Action
Inspired by a tour of the San Antonio VIA offices and in response to San Antonio’s high vehicle emissions, this team launched a sustainable transportation initiative focused on awareness and action. They organized cleanups at local bus stops, led classroom presentations on fuel efficiency, and worked to destigmatize public transit. Through education and community engagement, the group encouraged small, accessible shifts—like carpooling and taking the bus—that collectively move the city toward a cleaner, more sustainable future.
Kirat S (he/him), 17
I am a senior at CAST Tech High School who wants to make a meaningful impact on my local community. I represent District 1.
Prynce S, 16
Since I was young, I’ve been curious about the world around me. I constantly challenge myself beyond the standard curriculum—through advanced coursework, extracurriculars, and self-driven projects. I’m especially drawn to subjects like math, science, and U.S. government that require deep thinking and making complex connections. While I value my school experience, I often feel limited in how deeply I can explore my interests. I am a senior at Harmony Science Academy and this is my first year on the Council representing District 4. I’m excited to push boundaries and grow.
Najia Z (She/Her), 16
I’m a junior at the Young Women’s Leadership Academy, representing District 7. I joined the Council to learn more about climate change and help improve energy efficiency in my San Antonio community.
Siddharth R (He/Him), 15
Hi, I’m Sid—a sophomore at Health Careers High School. I swim competitively, hang out with friends, and love listening to music. I’m also passionate about airplanes and enjoy watching the Tour de France. This is my second year on the Council.
Stephanie C (She/They), 17
I’m in 11th grade at the International School of the Americas. I joined the Council to find new ways to strengthen our community and make sure everyone feels heard. I want to be a voice for people who often feel shut out, especially in a big city like ours. By sharing new ideas and uplifting others, I hope we can create a safer, more inclusive San Antonio—even through small but meaningful change. This is my first year on the Council, representing District 8.
What San Antonio Youth Learned About Climate Justice and Leadership
Over the course of the school year, Council members not only explored the intersections of climate and equity—they also grew as advocates, collaborators, and leaders. Many students described the experience as transformative, empowering them to see themselves as part of the solution to the climate crisis. 100% of students reported personal and professional growth, and nearly all expressed increased environmental literacy, civic engagement, and interest in green careers. Returning Council members Saadhana and Lorenzo, also shared their journey at the 2024 Confluence of Young Conservation Leaders conference, demonstrating how the program’s influence continues well beyond a single school year.
Year five of the San Antonio Youth Climate Council proved once again that when youth are trusted as leaders, they become powerful catalysts for climate resilience and justice in their communities. This cohort stands as a shining example of what’s possible when young people are equipped with the knowledge, tools, and support to lead. Follow their journey on Instagram, @ecorise_youth, and help us grow this movement by supporting student-led climate action.
Supported by
The 2024–2025 Mayor’s Youth Engagement Council for Climate Initiatives was supported by the City of San Antonio Office of Sustainability, the Wayne Hollomon Price Foundation, and the community partners who believe in the power of youth leadership, environmental justice, and community resilience. We are grateful for their contributions, which helped expand opportunities for students to engage in meaningful, place-based climate action and deepen their impact across San Antonio communities.
