We’re writing with both heartfelt appreciation and thrilling anticipation as we share an important update: The Youth Leadership Council (YLC) of Climate Roots has officially dissolved. This isn’t an ending — it’s a transition — to Climate Roots School Chapters!
Over the past few years, the YLC has been a vibrant engine of youth-driven climate action. Led by passionate young changemakers, the Council played an instrumental role in shaping our organization’s youth programs and amplifying student voices across our initiatives. We’re deeply grateful for their dedication, creativity, and tireless energy.
🌟 What the YLC Achieved:
- Youth Competitions: Under the leadership of Avni Goyal, Zyanya Ortiz and Roland Lee, the YLC helped design, promote, and hosted our Competition for Planet Earth series — empowering young people to present bold solutions to local environmental issues.
- Greenhouse Building: With guidance from Jerry Kuhlman, Arjun Thakur and Pradyun Sethupathi transformed our flagship hydroponic greenhouse — from conceptualizing the hydroponic layout to building a solar powered setup to mentoring student builders and planting the first seedlings.
- AgTech Class: Mushroom Growing at Home: Annika Jain and Aditya Narula co-created and led our wildly popular AgTech workshop, teaching students how to cultivate mushrooms indoors — blending science, sustainability, and fun in one deliciously educational experience.
These programs didn’t just happen — they were born from the vision, sweat, and laughter of YLC members. We thank each one of you for your leadership, collaboration, and unwavering belief in the power of youth to drive climate solutions.
🌱 What’s Next? The Launch of Climate Roots School Chapters!
While the Youth Leadership Council is stepping into a new chapter — perhaps as mentors, volunteers, or future leaders in other roles — we’re excited to announce the launch of our brand-new initiative: Climate Roots School Chapters.
Starting in early 2026, this program will empower schools across the Bay Area to become Climate Roots hubs — places where students can join hands, learn climate science through hands-on projects, and lead local sustainability efforts. Think: school-based greenhouses, community composting programs, student-led climate fairs, and AgTech workshops — all supported by Climate Roots resources, curriculum, and mentorship.
The School Chapters program is designed to scale our impact — bringing climate education directly into classrooms and communities, while giving every student a chance to lead.
We’re already in talks with pilot schools, developing curriculum modules, and building partnerships. And we can’t wait to share the first official launch date — stay tuned!
💌 A Final Thank You
To every member of the Youth Leadership Council: you’ve left an indelible mark on Climate Roots. Your passion, your projects, and your belief in the next generation have helped us grow into a stronger, more inclusive organization. We’re proud to have walked alongside you — and we can’t wait to see what you’ll do next.
Thank you for building greenhouses, growing mushrooms, and growing hope — one student at a time.
Climate Roots 