”Today’s youth are powerful advocates for a sustainable future. Through the Youth Climate Equity Council, we’re not only equipping them to understand and address climate issues but also to champion equity and resilience within their communities. Their work is vital to Austin’s path forward.
Zach Baumer, the City of Austin’s Chief Sustainability Officer
This year, the Austin Youth Climate Equity Council brought together 34 inspiring high school students from Austin ISD and surrounding districts to lead transformative climate action in their city. Through immersive learning experiences and partnerships with local organizations, these emerging leaders explored the intersections of climate change, equity, and community resilience, and took action to shape a more sustainable and just future.
EcoRise’s Austin Youth Climate Equity Council, supported by the City of Austin Office of Climate Action & Resilience, is a year-long leadership program that activates high school students to become agents of environmental change in their communities. Students engage deeply with the Austin Climate Equity Plan, explore sustainability frameworks, and learn from local leaders. Midway through the year, they split into teams and applied their knowledge through collaborative projects with local frontline organizations.
Council members contributed over 150 hours of site stewardship, participated in educational field trips, supported mutual aid efforts, supported community research, and even hosted a youth roundtable event to collect insights from Central Texas youth on the City of Austin’s next climate action plan. Impressively, 100% of students reported feeling more empowered to lead on environmental issues after participating in the Council. Their efforts culminated in powerful presentations at the 9th Annual Central Texas Student Innovation Showcase, where students shared their work with families, peers, and local leaders.
Explore how each team engaged the community in climate action by clicking through sections below.
🌳 Tree Equity & Reforestation with TreeFolks and The Trail Conservancy
This team took root in hands-on climate action—restoring Austin’s urban tree canopy and deepening their understanding of tree equity, ecosystem health, and the role of urban forests in climate resilience. From participating in volunteer events that planted over 1,000 trees with TreeFolks to educating the community on how they can get involved in supporting and improving public green spaces with The Trail Conservancy, these students made their mark on the landscape and the community.
Jessica G (she/her), 16
I’m Jess, and I’ve loved playing basketball for about four years. I’ve been interested in marine life since childhood. I care deeply about the environment, especially pollution, because I hate seeing ecosystems destroyed. I am a junior at Austin Achieve.
Kyan A (he/him), 17
My name is Kyan A, and I’m a senior at McCallum High School. I represent District 9. Since I was little, I’ve had a fascination and appreciation for all forms of life, big or small, ugly or pretty. I want to study and protect what many won’t or cannot.
Luis T (he/him), 16
My name is Luis, and I’m an 11th grader at Austin Achieve High School representing District 2. I joined this climate council to have a bigger impact on my community and connect with others who care about the same issues. I want more young people to learn about climate change and how it affects us.
Vincent D (he/him), 16
My name is Vincent, and I’m a junior at Akins Early College High School. I am extremely passionate about wildlife, animal welfare, and conservation. This will be my second year on the Council, representing District 1.
Zoe T (she/her), 16
My name is Zoe T, and I’m a junior at the Liberal Arts and Science Academy representing District 6. I joined this council because I want to be a leader and promote change in the Austin community. I’m passionate about conservation and ecosystems, and I want to make a positive impact on the more overlooked biomes.
🥬 Youth-Led Urban Farming with Urban Roots
This team got their hands dirty—literally and figuratively—while exploring food sovereignty, urban agriculture, and sustainability with Urban Roots. By harvesting produce, supporting volunteer programs, and learning from local farmers, students gained a powerful perspective on food as a climate and equity issue.
Andreina G (she/her), 16
My name is Andreina G. I was born in Ecuador and moved to Austin when I was 7 (I like it so far). I plan to go to college here in Texas. This year, I’m a junior at Anderson High School and excited to be part of this Council. I hope to learn new things while representing City Council District 8.
Audrey W (she/her), 16
I am an 11th grader at Anderson High Schoo. I’m from Austin, Texas and represent District 10. I’m passionate about protecting our environment, animals, and clean water sources. I’m a musician, softball player, and lifelong vegetarian. I love my five dogs and jalapeño Cheetos!
Janet C (she/her), 18
My name is Janet C. I’m a senior at Navarro Early College High School, and this is my first time participating in this program. I’m shy and don’t always talk, but I try to be involved in all activities. I’m determined to succeed and make friends. I love learning new things, and I’m very excited to learn about climate and represent District 1.
Naomi H (she/her), 14
I’m Naomi H, a freshman at the Liberal Arts and Science Academy. I’m excited to become more involved in my community and finally make a difference on climate issues I’ve cared about for a long time. I look forward to a year of commitment and change with AYCEC!
Omar A (he/him), 14
My name is Omar A. I’m a freshman at Austin Peace Academy, representing District 8. I joined AYCEC to make an impact for people affected by climate change and to help preserve this city, keeping it thriving and weird!
Safira S (she/her), 16
Hello, I’m Safira, a junior at the Liberal Arts and Science Academy representing District 1. This is my second year on the AYCEC council. I joined because caring for our environment is important. I want to inform people about climate change while learning more about our planet. I hope to see Austin improve in local biodiversity and work together toward sustainable development.
🏘 Mutual Aid and Climate Resilience at The Village Place
Focused on neighborhood resilience and frontline support, this team engaged in mutual aid efforts, organized donation drives, and co-hosted community events with The Village Place. Their work centered human connection and emphasized how environmental justice is inseparable from housing, health, and community wellbeing.
Kaylyn R (she/her), 16
My name is Kaylyn R, and I’m an 11th grader at Bowie High School. I joined the Council because I’ve always wanted to be part of a group with shared goals. I hope to raise awareness of climate issues, inspire others to learn, and create a more sustainable future. This is my second year on the Council, representing District 5.
Lexi N (she/her), 17
I’m Lexi, a junior at McCallum High School. I’m a fine arts music major who loves to sing and play guitar. I’m excited to be part of the Youth Climate Council and represent District 9 this year!
Mkayla S (she/her), 16
My name is Mkayla, and I’m an 11th grader at Crockett High School. I hope to see a brighter future for Austin with improvements in the eco
Odette R (she/her), 17
I’m Odette, a senior at Northeast Early College High School representing District 4. I’m honored to join this Council to take steps toward changing Austin’s relationship with the environment. I hope to find solutions to the social and environmental issues our city faces.
Rahila M (she/her), 17
I’m Rahila, a dedicated member of the Youth Climate Council of Austin for a second year. I’m passionate about promoting sustainability and environmental justice in my community. I collaborate with peers to address local climate issues and advocate for a greener future. I am a senior at Manor Senior High School and represent District 3.
☀️ Solar Equity and Clean Energy Careers with Solar Austin
This group dove into the world of renewable energy, STEM careers, and equitable access to solar power. In addition to supporting Solar Austin’s community outreach, students also explored their own future in green careers—an interest that grew significantly this year, with over 75% of Council members expressing interest in sustainability-focused professions.
Franck C (he/him), 18
I’m Franck, a young man passionate about science, seeking ways to be productive, supportive, and happy within society. I am a senior at Navarro Early College High School representing District 4.
Izzy C (she/her/ella), 15
Hi, I’m Izzy! This is my second year in the Council, representing District 5. I’m very excited to see what my second year on the Council brings — learning about climate change, giving presentations, and more.
Kotaro A (he/him), 16
I was born in Japan in 2008 and moved to Austin in 2019 when I was in 4th grade. I’m currently a junior at Bowie High School representing District 8.
Mahati K (she/her), 14
My name is Mahati, and I’m a freshman at the Liberal Arts and Science Academy. I have a deep interest in climate change and believe in the power of youth voices to influence society. When I’m not learning about climate, you can find me reading or writing with music playing. I’m representing District 10.
Max D (he/him), 16
Howdy! I’m Max, a junior at Lake Travis High School and a new member of the Council. I’m passionate about renewable energy and improving our community through activism. I’m excited to help make Austin the best it can be this year!
Nishtha V (she/her), 17
I’m Nishtha, a Liberal Arts and Science Academy High School senior representing District 5. I’m thrilled to return to this Council for a third year of learning opportunities. I loved being a part of the AYCEC in my freshman and junior years and am even more excited now that I can bring more to the table. I’ve always been so intrigued by big buildings and how they can be multi-purposed and improved to fit the needs of everybody and the planet.
🚲 Safe Streets and Sustainable Transportation in Austin
This team turned its attention to transportation justice and pedestrianization in Austin. They worked with Safe Streets Austin to conduct an urban mobility study focused on pedestrian and cyclist safety and learned about the connection between transportation and environmental equity. Their work brought the youth perspective to conversations around infrastructure and city planning.
Austin P (he/him), 17
I’m Austin, a senior at McCallum High School representing District 9. I’m passionate about urban planning and public transportation. I’ve worked with the City of Austin as a lifeguard, and I’m excited to serve on a council that has the capacity to make meaningful, lasting change. ATX is ready for better!
Elijah S (he/him), 16
Hi, I’m Elijah, an 11th grader at the Liberal Arts and Science Academy High School. I enjoy reading, basketball, and spending time with my best friend. I care deeply about climate issues and the regulatory policies that surround them. This is my second year on the Council representing District 10.
Grace V (she/her), 17
I’m Grace, an 11th grader at McCallum High School representing District 9. This is my third year on the Council and I joined because I want to make a real difference instead of just hoping for change. Climate disruption is one of our biggest threats, and I’m committed to doing everything I can to help create a more environmentally educated Austin that prioritizes its citizens over profit.
Katie W (she/her), 17
My name is Katie, and I’m a senior at the Ann Richards School for Young Women Leaders representing District 9. I joined the Youth Council to engage in climate justice conversations and to do community work that leaves a lasting impact. I hope to see more pressure on those in power to create real changes in how we treat our environment.
Milo E (he/him), 17
I’m Milo, a senior at McCallum High School representing District 5. I believe community resilience is essential, and I love being part of something that brings Austin together. Addressing climate change’s effects is urgent, and I’m excited to be part of the action.
🌿 Food Forest Education and Land Stewardship at Festival Beach Food Forest in Austin
Students in this group supported permaculture practices, food security initiatives, and public engagement at a beloved community greenspace, the Festival Beach Food Forest. From hosting an educational field trip for McCallum High School students to designing interpretive signage, these students blended creativity, advocacy, and sustainability in one vibrant outdoor classroom.
Annika W (she/they), 16
Hi! I’m Annika, a junior at the Ann Richards School for Young Women Leaders representing District 2. I joined the Youth Council three years ago to deepen my understanding of the world and become a better global citizen. I’ve always been passionate about the environment, and I hope to continue building my leadership skills while growing as a learner.
Clara W (she/her), 16
I’m Clara, an 11th grader at McCallum High School in District 9. I’m a visual arts major, a guitar player, and a member of the swim team. I joined the Council because I’m eager to learn more about climate change and how I can make a difference in my community.
Davis M (he/they), 16
Hi, I’m Davis, a junior at McCallum High School representing District 7. I race mountain bikes, play guitar, and am part of GeoForce—a program that has played a big role in shaping my environmental interests and understanding.
Karyme A (she/they), 17
Hello! I’m Karyme, a senior at James Bowie High School in District 8. I joined the Youth Council to step out of my comfort zone, meet new people, and learn more about how environmental conservation intersects with social justice. I’m excited to grow with EcoRise and explore how I can better support my peers and hometown.
Luke S (he/him), 16
My name is Luke, and I’m a junior at Austin High School representing District 10. I joined the Youth Climate Council because I know climate change will have a significant impact on my future, and I want to do my part to help mitigate those effects.
Maddie B (she/her), 17
Hi! I’m Maddie, a senior at James Bowie High School in District 8. I play trumpet in the Bowie Outdoor Performing Ensemble and plan to major in environmental science. I’m excited to deepen my knowledge and make meaningful change through the Council.
Preparing Central Texas Students to Lead
Throughout the program, students gained knowledge, skills, and confidence—not just in their environmental work, but in their leadership potential. As one Council member shared:
“As a result of EcoRise, I’m constantly seeking out opportunities to combat climate
change and help my community in ways that I would’ve never heard of before.”
By the end of the year, 97% of students reported feeling more capable of taking climate action, and many noted personal and professional growth that will stay with them well beyond high school.
The Austin Youth Climate Equity Council continues to cultivate a new generation of climate leaders—young people who are thoughtful, engaged, and ready to shape a more sustainable, inclusive Austin. Follow their journey on Instagram, @ecorise_youth, and help us grow this movement by supporting student-led climate action.
Supported By
The 2024–2025 Austin Youth Climate Equity Council was strengthened by the support of the City of Austin Office of Climate Action & Resilience 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 Austin communities.
