About us
Our Mission
Our Youth For The Climate ↳also known as OY4C
is a global grassroots and youth-driven organization. We aim to catalyze systemic change by providing high-quality, accessible, and comprehensive climate education to the next generations, creating widespread awareness and action towards our future.
Our Story
OY4C was born out of urgency for climate education. As young people, we saw firsthand how our education systems were failing to prepare us for the climate crisis we’re inheriting. With only 53% of national curricula worldwide even mentioning climate change (1), we were left underinformed and unprepared about how to lead and navigate a world facing a crisis of this scale.
But waiting was no longer an option. We knew that for change to happen, we had to create it ourselves. In 2021, our founder, Ava Langridge, began hosting Zoom classes on climate topics for youth in the same position as her—those eager to take control of our learning and prepare for the challenges ahead. What started as a small group quickly grew into an empowered organization. Today, OY4C is a team of over 50 young leaders with a shared mission to bridge the gap left by traditional education systems and equip ourselves and our peers with the climate understanding we desperately need.
At OY4C, we believe that knowledge is power. Our theory of change is simple: by educating youth, we catalyzes informed action, cultivating generations of climate advocates ready to lead toward a sustainable tomorrow.
But time is running out—not only because of the crisis but because we didn’t receive this education soon enough.
Together, we’re changing that.
(1) United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). (2021). Learn for our planet. A global review of how environmental issues are integrated in education
Our Values
1. Accessible Education
We are committed to bringing climate education to the forefront, focusing on empowering younger generations with the knowledge and tools they need to build a sustainable and just future. Our mission is to ensure that the youth are equipped to lead the fight for change.
2. Collaborative Community
We believe in the power of collective action and making decisions together as a united community of youth leaders and advocates. By working to support each other, we amplify our voices and create impactful change on both local and global scales.
3. Intersectional Environmentalism
We champion a diverse and inclusive approach to climate action, recognizing the interconnectedness of climate, social, racial, and environmental justice. We prioritise supporting marginalised communities most affected by the climate crisis, ensuring their voices are heard in the fight for climate justice.
4. Inclusive & Welcoming
We welcome individuals from all backgrounds and experiences, creating an open and supportive space where everyone can contribute to meaningful change. Our strength lies in unity, and we believe that everyone, regardless of their starting point, has the power to make a difference.
5. Systemic Change
We are dedicated to driving systemic transformation through peaceful, impactful actions. We recognize the urgency of the climate crisis and use our voices to push for radical change while adhering to ‘non-violent’ advocacy.
6. Data-Driven Solutions
Grounded in science and evidence-based research, our initiatives are informed, effective, and capable of making a lasting impact. We focus on solutions that address the root causes of the climate crisis, ensuring sustainable, data-backed outcomes
Our Demands
1.Initiative in your Climate Education
We call on individuals to actively seek out and engage with climate education. It's crucial that everyone, especially young people, is equipped with the knowledge needed to understand and combat the climate crisis. If it's not provided, it becomes our individual responsibility to learn and share, ensuring we are aware and educated in the biggest crisis of our time.
2. Mandatory Climate Education in Schools
We demand that all schools worldwide incorporate comprehensive climate education into their curricula. It is essential for students to learn about the science, policy, and social impacts of climate change to prepare for the future challenges they will face.
3. All Jobs must be Green Jobs
We advocate for a transformation in every sector to prioritize sustainability. Every job, regardless of the industry, must contribute to a greener economy and world. Transitioning to a fully sustainable workforce is key to addressing the climate crisis and ensuring a just future for all.
4. Shift Power to the Youth
We demand that decision-making power be given to the youth, who will inherit the consequences of the climate crisis. Youth voices must be at the forefront of policy-making and climate solutions to ensure a future that prioritizes people and the planet.