Sustainable Cayman is proud to announce the successful return of its first official delegation to the Global Sustainable Islands Summit (GSIS) 2025, held in St. Kitts and Nevis from May 23–31. This landmark summit convened leaders from island nations across the globe—governments, NGOs, and private sector partners—to address urgent challenges around climate resilience, sustainable development, and inclusive governance.
As an official summit partner, Sustainable Cayman was represented by Executive Officer Melanie Carmichael and two of our Youth Sustainability Ambassadors, Leanni Tibbetts and Dani Seales. Together, they engaged in key sessions, bilateral meetings, and a two-day Youth Forum dedicated to empowering young islanders.
Summit Themes & Relevance to Cayman: The summit’s focus on water security, energy transition, food resilience, circular economies, nature-based solutions, and social protection offered critical insights for the Cayman Islands. While Cayman’s economic position may set it apart from typical SIDS profiles, our national response to climate change often lags behind our more resource-challenged neighbours. GSIS 2025 offered both a reality check and a pathway forward.
Youth Forum Highlights:
• Policy Access: Cayman’s delegates echoed regional calls for youth to be part of the planning process—not just late-stage consultation. They urged clearer communication, earlier inclusion, and institutional support for youth-led initiatives.
• Green Innovation: Delegates explored initiatives like St. Kitts’ recycling program with Taiwan, sparking ideas for circular economy approaches and entrepreneurship in Cayman.
• Climate and Equity: Sessions focused on the disproportionate impact of climate change on women, youth, and persons with disabilities, highlighting the need for inclusive planning tools such as sign language integration and targeted support frameworks.
Cayman’s Takeaways & Forward Agenda: Sustainable Cayman welcomes the opportunity to discuss and collaborate with policymakers on youth-informed proposals shaped by the summit:
1. Quick-Win Initiatives for the Cayman Islands Civil Service
2. A Climate-Aligned Tourism Strategy that balances sustainability, waste reduction, and cultural resilience
3. Composting Education in schools and community gardens, in partnership with the Department of Agriculture
4. A youth-led Green Business Spotlight Series to promote local sustainability champions
Why This Matters: GSIS 2025 was a transformational moment for Cayman’s youth. Our Ambassadors returned with fresh insights, new networks, and a deeper understanding of how small island states can lead in climate innovation. Youth participation in these forums isn’t symbolic—it is strategic. They are ready to implement, collaborate, and scale ideas that directly strengthen Cayman’s national resilience.
“We can’t afford to sit back and assume our economy will shield us from the climate crisis. What we saw at GSIS 2025 were small nations doing big things—integrating circular economies, protecting and restoring ecosystems, empowering youth. Cayman can and should be leading that charge,” said Melanie Carmichael.
Support & Acknowledgements: This impactful delegation was made possible through the generous support of our sponsors: Island Innovation, Ministry of Wellness, Island Waste Carriers, Mike’s Ice, Island Recycling, Cayman Islands Football Association, and Grant Thornton Cayman.
We extend our sincere gratitude for their commitment to youth empowerment and sustainable development.
Looking Ahead: COP30 & UN Ocean Conference: Sustainable Cayman is seeking support to enable youth representation at two critical upcoming events:
• UN Ocean Conference* – Nice, France, June 9–13, 2025
• UN Climate Change Conference (COP30) – Brazil, November 2025
*Ambassadors have secured accreditation and will advocate for climate-resilient coastlines, bio-restoration techniques (such as Biorock), and small-island voices in shaping the Nice Ocean Action Plan.
This builds on the work of Ambassador Isabela Watler, who led Honouring Coasts, a youth-produced storytelling project spotlighting the cultural heritage of Cayman’s beaches and a policy discussion paper by Matthew Feitelberg “Between Sand & Sea” – examining solutions for Seven Mile Beach, including the importance of sediment systems, managed retreat, and nature-based restoration.
Sustainable Cayman, founded in 2014 and officially recognised as a charitable organisation in April 2022, remains committed to providing sensible solutions to sustainability challenges. With the continued support of the Cayman Islands’ community, international organisations and the dedication of a diverse team of youth volunteers and professionals, the grassroots organisation looks forward to making a lasting impact in the Cayman Islands of today and for future generations. Visit sustainablecayman.org to learn more and get involved.
We appreciate your feedback. You can comment here with your pseudonym or real name. You can leave a comment with or without entering an email address. All comments will be reviewed before they are published.
Comments (0)
We appreciate your feedback. You can comment here with your pseudonym or real name. You can leave a comment with or without entering an email address. All comments will be reviewed before they are published.