Esperanza Garcia

UN urges achieving sustainable energy for all as International Year kicks off

noreply@blogger.com (Esperanza Garcia) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 09:09:00 PST

UN urges achieving sustainable energy for all as International Year kicks off

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon speaks at the opening ceremony of the World Future Energy Summit 2012 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. UN Photo/Evan Schneider

16 January 2012 – As the International Year of Sustainable Energy for All kicked off today, United Nations officials called on governments, the private sector and civil society to help expand energy access, improve efficiency and increase the use of renewables.
Globally, one person in five still lacks access to modern electricity and twice that number – three billion people – rely on wood, coal, charcoal, or animal waste for cooking and heating.

“We are here to build a new energy future… a future that harnesses the power of technology and innovation in the service of people and the planet,” Mr. Ban said inremarks to the opening of the World Future Energy Summit, which is taking place in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

Sustainable energy for all is within our reach.

“Sustainable energy for all is within our reach,” he told the summit, which also serves as the global launch of 2012 as the International Year.

Mr. Ban stressed that energy is central to everything, from powering economies to achieving the anti-poverty targets known as the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), from combating climate change to underpinning global security.
“It is the golden thread that connects economic growth, increased social equity and preserving the environment.”

2012 International Youth Council Global Youth Networking Event

noreply@blogger.com (Esperanza Garcia) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 09:02:00 PST

Proud of my colleagues at International Youth Council who have worked hard to plan this!

Global Youth Networking Event

The International Youth Council is celebrating the 10th Annual Youth Assembly at the United Nations with a global networking event on Thursday, January 19, 2012. Please join us and other young leaders from around the world, UN officials, IYC Board members, and special guests for an engaging evening in the heart of New York City.

Speakers will include the Director of the Office of the Special Adviser on African Affairs to the United Nations, and the Bangledeshi Ambassador to the United Nations.

Date: Thursday, January 19, 2012
Time: 7:00 - 10:00 p.m.

$20 – At the door
$15 – Advance tickets

Light Food will be Available
Cash Bar for 21+!
If you haven't purchased a ticket yet please do so at: PayPal link. Due to the popularity of the event, we cannot guarantee entry to anyone who has not purchased a ticket in advance. Tickets are selling out quickly due to popularity and an intimate venue, please let me know if you have any problems with the payment process. For advance tickets please contact IYC finance director Eric Dales eric@internationalyouthcouncil.com.

Location:
Rooftop Lounge (great views!)
160 East 38th Street Floor 36
[Between 3rd and Lexington Avenue]

Save the date and see you there!

IYC 2012 Global Youth Networking Flyer

2012 IYC Global Youth Networking Programme

November 2011 Highlights

noreply@blogger.com (Esperanza Garcia) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 20:57:00 PST

In comparison to last semester's events, I've taken a full-spin on my priorities this month. I'm still not used to being back in an academic setting and it's taken so much of myself in trying to solely focus on school. I am looking forward to the end of this semester so I can finally be home with my family and my little girl. I hope she knows that all my hard work is due to the life that I want to provide for her. Here are this semester's highlights...

Columbia University

Sustainability Management:
"Global Sustainability" Presentation

"Global Sustainability: A case for Collaboration" Presentation

Our Sustainability Management class

with team: Lee Trotman, Derrek Clarke, Solomon Kleinman, and Harry Mclellan

with Professor Steven Cohen, Executive Director of Columbia's Earth Institute (among many other things)

Here's a short video of the presentation

Columbia University

Financing the Green Economy:

Renewable Energy in Developing Countries Presentation

with team: Ashley Claro, Sunsarae Smith, Shawne Cooke, and Steven Burke

Fairleigh Dickinson University

"Global Youth Mobilization and Global Climate Politics"

Fairleigh Dickinson University's International Relations Club team who gave me this awesome shirt and clock!

Esperanza Garcia Speaking at Fairleigh Dickinson University

Florida A&M University

Environmental Law & Justice Symposium

"Global Youth Mobilization and Global Climate Politics"

with the other speakers of the Environmental Law & Justice Symposium: Atty. Randall S. Abate; Florida A&M University College of Law, Itzchak Kornfeld, Esq.; University of Jerusalem’s Faculty of Law, Dr. Svitlana Kravchenko; University of Oregon School of Law, Atty. John E. Bonine; University of Oregon, Dr. Albert Mumma; University of Nairobi Faculty of Law.

Program here: http://law.famu.edu/download/file/Program210611.pdf

With Atty. Carlton Waterhouse, Dr. Albert Mulma, and Atty. Randall Abate

http://law.famu.edu/download/file/Poster10611.pdf

UNCSD Rio + 20

"The Future We Want"

with Tara DePorte; Executive Director, Mobilize US!, Ella Tamufor; Coordinator, Sustain Nigeria, Ambassador Ojiambo, President of the UN General Assembly High-level Committee on South-South Cooperation, and Aimee Christensen; CEO of Christensen Global Strategies.

The next day Ella Tamufor and I had a meeting with Ambassador Ojiambo to discuss Rio+20 youth initiatives.

Sha Zukang; Secretary General of UNCSD, Hon. Ban Ki-Moon; UN Secretary-General,

Extremely proud of my good friend Ella Tamufor who spoke at the Rio+20 launch at the UN speaking on behalf of youth. Here she is with Kiyo-Akasaka, UN Under Secretary-General for Communications and Public Information.

Happy to see my classmates and students in the Columbia program in the audience!

Yale & Columbia

Passing physics & engineering at Yale Summer '11 (Thank God!)

Never always been the model student- always surprised to see when I pass my papers!

Getting accepted in Columbia's Master of Science Sustainability Management Program! Whew... Surreal!

Ecohope's top readers by countries. Where is the love Africa & S.America?

Rio+20: The Future We Want

noreply@blogger.com (Esperanza Garcia) — Sat, 19 Nov 2011 04:21:00 PST

The Future We Want - Launching a Global Conversation

The Future We Want

22 Nov 2011 - 22 Nov 2011
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Dag Hammarskjold Auditorium, New York

Watch live here on Tuesday, 22 November, 10am EST.

Link to Webcast

In the lead-up to the UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20) to take place in Rio de Janeiro in June 2012, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon is launching a global conversation on issues of sustainability and the future we want.

2012 UN Year for Sustainable Energy for All

noreply@blogger.com (Esperanza Garcia) — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 12:36:00 PST

Sustainable Energy for All
UN General Assembly has designated 2012 as the International Year of Sustainable Energy for All

Energy is central to nearly every major challenge, and opportunity the world faces today. Be it jobs, security, climate change, food production or increasing incomes , access to sustainable energy for all is essential for strengthening economies, protecting ecosystems and achieving equity.

In fact, more than 1.4 billion people worldwide have no access to electricity, and 1 billion more only have intermittent access. Some 2.5 billion people – almost half of humanity – rely on traditional biomass for cooking and heating.

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon made sustainable energy one of his five priorities that will guide his second 5-year term. Specifically, he will direct the United Nations to extend energy’s reach in order to combat endemic poverty. Universal access to energy, improved efficiency and enhanced deployment of renewable sources are ambitious goals, and the Secretary-General is leading a Sustainable Energy for All initiative to make them achievable.

This initiative will call for private sector and national commitments and attract global attention to the importance of energy for development and poverty alleviation. The goal is to meet three objectives by 2030:

• Ensuring universal access to modern energy services.
• Doubling the rate of improvement in energy efficiency.
• Doubling the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix.

In recognition of the importance of energy access for sustainable economic development and supporting achievement of the Millennium Development Goals, the United Nations General Assembly has designated 2012 as the International Year of Sustainable Energy for All.

Also, as part of the Sustainable Energy for All Initiative, the United Nations Foundation has launched a new global Energy Access Practitioner Network. This group will bring together practitioners from the private sector and civil society working on the delivery of energy services and solutions related to electrification in a range of developing country contexts to develop a more integrated approach to energy access planning and execution in support of the Sustainable Energy for All Target to achieve universal energy access by 2030. The Network will focus on both household and community level electrification for productive purposes, incorporating specific market-based applications for health, agriculture, education, small business, communities and household solutions.

Ensure universal access to energy

Access to energy transforms lives. Sustainable energy affords new opportunities for the poorest to escape the worst impacts of poverty. It provides people the means to generate income, provide health care services, improve education, and protect the environment. Lack of access to energy hinders development and poses risks to human health and safety. For example, smoke from polluting and inefficient cooking, lighting, and heating devices kills nearly two million people prematurely every year, primarily women and children, and causes a range of chronic illnesses (for more information visit: www.cleancookstoves.org).

Reduce global energy intensity

Efficient and renewable sources of energy are often the best and most cost-effective option for providing access to energy. The use of energy-efficient products reduces the amount of energy that must be supplied for lighting and other needs. Similarly, more efficient distribution and use of energy could free up power that is now lost or wasted, as well as capital to invest in additional energy supply or economic development.

Increase renewable energy use

Energy sources such as wind and solar can provide energy without negative impacts to the environment, reach remote rural areas particularly via distributed generation and the use of mini-grids, and generate employment. At present, renewable energy sources provide 19 per cent of global energy consumption. If supported by strong enabling policies, renewable energy could supply more than three quarters of the world's energy by 2050. Small-scale renewable technologies could reach a large number of people currently without access to energy.

UN Alliance of Civilizations Online Youth Consultation

noreply@blogger.com (Esperanza Garcia) — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 11:44:00 PST

The International Youth Council

Join this exciting youth forum where the reports & recommendations will be made to heads of State and public-private sector leaders this December!

Launch of Online Youth Consultation

Leading up to the 4^th UNAOC Forum in Doha in December

The United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), the International Youth Council (IYC) and the Friendship Ambassadors Foundation (FAF) have partnered up to hold an online youth consultation regarding the three themes of the upcoming UNAOC’s 4th Annual Forum to be held in Doha, Qatar this December.

This 4th UNAOC Forum in Qatar will bring together over 2,000 participants, including political and corporate leaders, civil society activists, youth groups, faith communities, research centers, foundations and journalists, will come together to agree on joint actions to improve relations across cultures, combat prejudice and build lasting peace.

The three themes of this 4th UNAOC Forum are:

• Theme 1: How Does Cultural Diversity Matter to Development? The missing link

• Theme 2: Promoting Trust and Tolerance to Advance Development Goals

• Theme 3: New Strategies for Intercultural Dialogue, Understanding & Cooperation

We are inviting youth partners from all around the world to share their viewpoints on these 3 themes from November 10 to November 30, 2011, on the “Community” section of the UNAOC Youth Website. Please note that you need to register on the UNAOC Youth Website before posting any comment.

For each of these three themes, a panel of youth leaders and academics developed three specific sub-questions. The goal for the consultation regarding these nine questions is to yield concrete, focused and pertinent recommendations for the Youth Event at the Doha Forum. For each question, you can count on the support of two youth co-moderators chosen through a selective application process. These youth co-moderators will be easily identifiable on the UNAOC Youth Website.

The most helpful and poignant viewpoints from this consultation process will be shared with the youth participants who will then interact directly with world leaders at the Doha Forum.

We want to work with you to ensure the voices and viewpoints of youth partners around the world be noted and heard at the Doha Forum! We look forward to hearing from you before November 30 on the Community section of the UNAOC Youth Website atwww.unaocyouth.org/community!

Isabelle Legare (UNAOC), Jamie Ansorge (IYC) and Yin-Chu Jou (FAF)

For more information about this online consultation, please contact Isabelle Legare, Youth Program Manager for the UNAOC atisabellel@unops.org.

Visit The International Youth Council at: http://www.internationalyouthcouncil.com/?xg_source=msg_mes_network

Speaking at Fairleigh Dickinson University

noreply@blogger.com (Esperanza Garcia) — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 10:06:00 PST

YOU ARE INVITED! (For those of you in New Jersey and interested)

I am speaking at Fairleigh Dickinson University on November 10 at 8 PM. FDU is the the first university in the world to be granted special consultative status by ECOSOC (United Nations Economic and Social Council). It's exciting to be hosted by the International Relations Club to talk about the UN Millennium Development Goals & International Climate Politics and how our young generation are mobilizing, impacting, and influencing the process!

Esperanza Garcia Speaking at Fairleigh Dickinson University

Esperanza Garcia is invited to speak at international conferences, including the UN, on the importance of young people’s engagement in global affairs and environmental sustainability. The topic she presents on "Youth Mobilization and Global Climate Politics" tells the story of how our young generation is mobilizing all over the world to find solutions of the greatest challenges our time. In this talk, she will highlight how young people are engaging themselves in international affairs and international climate negotiations and how their participation are impacting the progress of these events. She also gives examples on how the international experience of these young leaders inspire and motivate them in making a difference in their own communities and home-country.

Agenda:
- Global Youth Mobilization & UN Millennium Development Goals: International Youth Council
- Youth engagement & UNFCCC: International Youth Climate Movement & Global Climate Politics
- Local Youth mobilization: Philippine Youth Climate Movement & International Youth Council Chapters

FAMU Environmental Law & Justice Symposium

noreply@blogger.com (Esperanza Garcia) — Sun, 30 Oct 2011 01:17:00 PDT

Environmental Law & Justice Symposium

http://law.famu.edu/download/file/Poster10611.pdf

“Green Justice for All:

International and Comparative Dimensions of Environmental Justice"

November 3-4, 2011

What: “Green Justice for All: International and Comparative Dimensions of Environmental Justice” -the second annual Florida A&M University (FAMU) Environmental Law and Justice Symposium, hosted by the Florida A&M University’s Environment, Development & Justice Program and Center for International Law and Justice at the College of Law, and School of the Environment.

When: Thursday, November 3, 2011; Registration begins at 4:30 p.m.
Friday, November 4, 2011; Registration begins at 8:30 a.m.

Where: FAMU College of Law (201 Beggs Avenue).

Who: The symposium will feature the following speakers and events:

Dr. Albert Mumma, Senior Lecturer, University of Nairobi Faculty of Law, Kenya – Distinguished Lecturer for Thursday;
Carlton Waterhouse, Associate Professor of Law, Indiana University School of Law – Opening Keynote for Friday;
Climbing Poetree (www.climbingpoetree.com), Environmental and Social Justice-Based Performers – Friday Luncheon Keynote Presentation;
Esperanza Garcia, Climate Change Negotiation Delegate, Youth Climate Movement Organizer, Philippines – Friday Closing Keynote

Why: The Environmental Law and Justice Symposium will feature an overview of the latest international, national, regional, state and local developments in environmental justice. The panelists and moderators for the symposium are also leaders in the environmental law and justice field from government, academia, private practice and nonprofit organizations. Attendees can anticipate the symposium to address domestic and international dimensions of environmental justice. The event is $50 for general attendees seeking CLE credit; $35 for FAMU alumni and members of the Environmental and Land Use Law Section (ELULS) of the Florida Bar; $25 for the general public not seeking CLE credit; and $10 for general students. Eligible attendees will receive 7.0 Florida Bar CLE Credit hours and 3.5 State/Federal Government Administrative Practice Certification.

Click here to Register for the 2011 Environmental Law and Justice Symposium

Click here to view the Environmental Law and Justice Symposium 2011 Poster

Click here to view the Environmental Law and Justice Symposium 2011 Program

Click here for the Environmental Law and Justice Symposium 2011 "Save the Date "

Click here to view the Environmental Law and Justice Symposium 2011 Issue

Click here to view the Environmental Law and Justice Symposium 2010

If you require additional information, please contact FAMU College of Law Associate Professor Randall Abate, event coordinator, atrandall.abate@famu.edu.

UNDP Equator Prize 2012: Call for Nominations

noreply@blogger.com (Esperanza Garcia) — Sun, 23 Oct 2011 10:28:00 PDT

UNDP Equator Prize 2012: Call for Nominations

The Equator Initiative is pleased to announce the call for nominations for the UNDP Equator Prize 2012, which will recognize 25 outstanding local initiatives that are working to advance sustainable development solutions for people, nature and resilient communities.

The 25 recipients of the Equator Prize 2012 will each receive $5,000 (USD), with 10 selected for special recognition and a total of $20,000 (USD).

Representatives of winning communities will participate in the UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20), which will be held in Brazil in June 2012.

Eligibility and Selection Criteria

In order to be eligible for the Equator Prize 2012, nominees must:

Have been in operation for at least 3 years
Be a community-based or local group, operating in a rural area
Be located within a country receiving support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), excluding countries with a high level of development

Before submitting a nomination for the Equator Prize 2012, please review the complete list of eligible countries, eligibility requirements and selection criteria.
**Please note that eligibility and selection criteria have been significantly broadened to accommodate a wider range of community-based initiatives, fields of work, and countries of operation.

How to Nominate
Nominations for the Equator Prize 2012 may be submitted directly by the initiative, by a partner organization, or by any third party that is familiar with the activities and achievements of the initiative.
Nominations may be completed, saved and submitted using our online nomination system. Online nominations are encouraged and may be submitted in Arabic, Chinese, English, Tagalog, French, Haitian Creole, Hindi, Indonesian, Malay, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Swahili, Thai, or Vietnamese.

Click here to nominate online

Completed nominations may be submitted via e-mail, fax or post to:Attention: Whitney Wilding
Equator Initiative
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
304 East 45th Street, Room 640
New York, NY 10017
Fax: +1 212 906-6642
Email: prize@equatorinitiative.org
Deadline
The nomination period for the Equator Prize 2012 will close on 31 October 2011.

LIVE NOW! Webcast on High-Level Global Sustainability Panel w/ UN General Assembly

noreply@blogger.com (Esperanza Garcia) — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 07:56:00 PDT

Global Sustainability Panel Interactive Dialogue w/ UN General Assembly

LIVE NOW! Webcast: 20 Oct 11:00am-1:00pm EST

www.un.org/webcast

Members of the High-level Panel on Global Sustainability at their Fourth Meeting
held on 18-19 September 2011, United Nations Headquarters, New York

H.E. Mr. Nassir Abdulaziz Al-Nasser, President of the UN General Assembly, will host an Interactive Dialogue of the General Assembly with the Secretary-General’s High-level Panel on Global Sustainability (GSP) on Thursday, 20 October 2011 from 11:00am-1:00pm at UNHQ in New York. This event will be web cast live at www.un.org/webcast. The web cast recording can also be viewed after the event from the UN web cast archive at the same web address.

Programme
11 – 11:15am Opening Remarks
• H.E. Mr. Nassir Abdulaziz Al-Nasser, President of the General Assembly
• H.E. Mr.Ban Ki Moon, UN Secretary-General

11:15am – 12:50pm Moderated by H.E. Mr. Nassir Abdulaziz Al-Nasser, President of the General Assembly
I. H.E. Mrs. Tarja Halonen, President of Finland and GSP Co-Chair
II. H.E. Mr. Jacob Zuma, President of South Africa and GSP Co-Chair (by video)
III. H.E. Mr. Kevin Rudd, Foreign Minister of Australia (by video)
IV. H.E. Mrs. Luisa Diogo, former PM of Mozambique

12:50 – 1pm Closing Remarks
• H.E. Mrs. Tarja Halonen, President of Finland and Co-Chair of the Global Sustainability Panel
• H.E. Mr. Nassir Abdulaziz Al-Nasser , President of the General Assembly

The Interactive Dialogue with the Global Sustainability Panel offers an opportunity for Member States to hear some initial views of the Panel members on the work of the Panel so far as well as to share their suggestions.

Background
The Secretary-General’s High-level Panel on Global Sustainability (GSP) is currently drafting its final report and will have its last meeting in November 2011, before handing the report to the Secretary-General in January 2012. Co-chaired by H.E. Mrs. Tarja Halonen, President of Finland, and H.E. Mr. Jacob Zuma, President of South Africa, the GSP is looking into cross-cutting strategies to address the interconnected sustainability challenges of today and tomorrow. The final report will feed into relevant intergovernmental discussions such as the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20).

For more information about the Global Sustainability Panel, including detailed reports about its prior meetings, please visit www.un.org/en/gsp as well ashttp://www.un-ngls.org/spip.php?article3257.

The World at 7 Billion: Sustaining Our Future

noreply@blogger.com (Esperanza Garcia) — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 13:15:00 PDT

Dr. Jeffrey Sachs; Quetelet Professor of Sustainable Development, Professor of Health Policy and Management, and Director of The Earth Institute, Columbia University, Klaus Lackner; Director of Columbia Lenfest Center for Sustainable Energy, Upmanu Lall; Albert & Carol Silberstein Professor of Engineering and Director of the Columbia Water Center; Jean-Marie Guéhenno, Population And Conflict, Ruth S. DeFries is Denning Professor of Sustainable Development and Chair for the Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Environmental Biology.

The World at 7 Billion: Sustaining Our Future
October 17, 2011, 3:00 to 5:00 pm, Columbia University

This year we reach another milestone in global population growth, 7 billion inhabitants of Earth. It has only taken us 12 years to add an additional 1 billion people to the planet. This kind of rapid population growth puts strains on environmental, political, and financial resources. This event highlights key issues related to rapid population growth and offer a look at current solutions.

More info & live webcast link: http://www.earth.columbia.edu/7billion/

Sustainable Management

noreply@blogger.com (Esperanza Garcia) — Sun, 02 Oct 2011 13:18:00 PDT

Sustainability represents the biggest business opportunity of the 21st century. Our overall objective should derive economic benefits from improved environmental and social outcomes by incorporating business decisions that create long-term value. A market-based network approach is necessary for climate change because it is an especially complex & costly problem.It’s not an environmental approach, it’s a business strategy.

Impromptu...

noreply@blogger.com (Esperanza Garcia) — Sat, 24 Sep 2011 19:39:00 PDT

Highlights of August & September 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Esperanza Garcia) — Fri, 23 Sep 2011 12:02:00 PDT

In the past two months, I've been juggling both work and school full-time. Work has been time-consuming and school has been intense. I am also on the "board" of a few organizations both in my hometown and internationally that I am committed to help manage (all volunteer consultancy work!). On top of everything else, with the (little) free-time that I had, I spent looking for apartments! Summer/beginning of Fall was definitely overwhelming, and I'm glad it's over!

The most valuable lesson I learned from this experience is learning how to FOCUS. In the ensuing months, until the end of the Fall semester (and up until I graduate with my degree), I will be focusing solely on my studies. I do not know what the consequences will be for giving up work, but one thing I am certain of is knowing that work will always be there, education however is something that can never be taken away from me.

"The best of all things is to learn. Money can be lost or stolen, health and strength may fail, but what you have committed to your mind is yours forever." --Louis L'Amour (1908-1988)

Here are some of August-September's highlights:

(Picture captions have been copied and pasted from my twitter/facebook pics)

July - August '11: Summer 2011 marked the beginning of my post-baccalaureate studies. I took courses on Green Engineering and Physics with a focus on Energy at Yale University.

Being back in school has been an amazing & exciting experience. Engaging with my professors & classmates has been incredibly enriching and i'm learning so much in my classes.

August 2011: Presenting Ron Bruder of Education for Employment, Time Magazine 100 most influential people in the world, our very first International Youth Council recognition award at The International Youth Council Global Youth Leader Mixer in NYC. For more pics on the event, visit link.

August 5, 2011: Finding out that I'm closing keynote speaker at the Environmental Law & Justice Symposium in Florida this November -Intimidating!

August Summer 2011: Being one of the guest speakers in my "Green Engineering class" and passing my classes on "Green Engineering & Renewable Energy" and "Physics: Energy, Society, &Technology" at Yale.

Sustainable energy is the most important issue facing the human race in the 21st century. I hope to apply the knowledge I am gaining in my classes to help my country and other developing and emerging markets move forward with the development and implementation of renewable energy and other sustainable ventures & initiatives.

August 2011: Being featured as "Global Changemaker" at Bakitwhy.com
Article on this link.

August 2011: Holding a workshop on "Youth Mobilization & Global Climate Politics" at the UN Headquarters during the High-Level Meeting on Youth. Special thanks Jean Paul Affana and Dr. Miroslav Polzer for inviting me.

August 2011: At Charles Rengel's Birthday Gala at the Plaza Hotel with Congressman Charles Rengel & Queen Mother Dr. Delois Blakely, Ambassador of Goodwill for Africa.

August 2011: South South News interview by Afaf Konja with Ambassador Jean-Francis R. Zinsou of Benin & other youth leaders.

To watch interview go on this link

August 2011: Reuniting with mentor, Dr. Rajendra Pachauri, IPCC Chairman/Nobel laureate and meeting UN US Ambassador Susan Rice.

August 2011:Holding a workshop at the UN Headquarters for Youth Assembly UN on International Youth Council Global Chapters. We started this organization at the Youth Assembly in 2007. Today, we have chapters all over the world.

August 19, 2011: International Youth Council co-founders, Jamie Ansorge & Esperanza C. Garcia had a successful meeting with United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) & Friendship Ambassadors Foundation on bridging mutual understanding & MDG's through an upcoming youth conference in Doha this December.

September 1, 2011: One of the perks of studying at Columbia- bumping into great minds like Prof. Jeffrey Sachs. I took the opportunity to invite him to the South South Awards, where he was awarded for his work on ICT, Health & development.

September 2, 2011: Failed at maintaining composure when Van Jones asked for my advice on a project he is working on at our Skype meeting.

I had met Van Jones years ago at a time when I first began my "environmental activism" - his work had been an instigating force in my desire to pursue a career in sustainable development. To have someone that influential in my life recognize the work that I do - Surreal!

September 2011: I love hearing the dreams & aspirations of our young leaders and having them reach out for mentorship and to help them pursue their dreams. It is always an honor.

September 2011: In my "Policy & Legal Context in Sustainability Management" class. Having negotiated in international climate negotiations (via UNFCCC COP) makes it even more interesting to learn environmental policy and the resulting documents in an academic setting.

Public policy shapes how the man-made and natural environments are managed and regulated. Sustainability practitioners must be able to understand public policy and its effects on what they are charged to do. This course is designed to provide students with an understanding of environmental sustainability policy and the resulting law and regulations in order to strengthen their ability to understand, interpret, and react to future developments.

September 6, 2011: Presenting an International Youth Council (IYC) recognition award to Ambassador Josephine Ojiambo from the Permanent Mission of Kenya the UN.

September 7, 2011: At my "Sustainability Management" class with Prof. Steven Cohen at the Columbia Law school.

Sustainability management matters because we only have one planet, and we must learn how to manage our organizations in a way that ensures that the health of our planet can be maintained and bettered.

September 13, 2011: Taking my first finance class, ever. Taking a course on "Financing the Green Economy" from the Sustainability Management graduate program.

In the 21st century, countering the threat of global climate change, increasing energy independence, and providing good jobs for our citizens are all reasons why green energy is important. But a host of complications will make sustaining and growing the transition to a green economy challenging. These complications involve technology, finance, politics - and simply the low cost and convenience of our existing fossil fuel based infrastructure. "Financing the Green Economy" emphasizes on the financial aspects of green energy, but in doing so, will bring together many of the other factors that affect whether and how much the green economy takes hold.

September 14, 2011: I reached top 5% in about.me profile voting competition! Didn't think I had that many friends (who cared at least! lol). http://about.me/esperanzagarcia

September 15, 2011: UN Protocol briefing with Ambasasdor Oscar de Rojas at the South South News office

September 2011: International Youth Council Executive Directors with our mentor & advisor, Ambassador Francis Lorenzo, President of South South News

September 16, 2011: A partner of a colleague of mine, Gerard McKeon of Black Tie Magazine, helped organized Couture Fashion Week held at the Waldorf-Astoria. Coincidentally, on the same day of the Fashion Couture Show, I was touring around 50 of our volunteers for the South South Awards at the Waldorf and it was also my birthday. He gave my crew and friends access to this stunning show! Special thanks to Gerard for treating our hard-working volunteers to the beautiful fashion show. http://www.couturefashionweek.com

September 16, 2011: Overwhelmed by all the love, birthday greetings & friends who came to my birthday party. Im so blessed. Thank you is not enough.

September 16, 2011: Thanking my sister for surprising me on my 25th!

September 2011: Proud of my younger sister, with whom I managed, as she helped organize a UN- High Level Meeting side-event, breakfast for First Ladies at the Waldorf Astoria.

September 19, 2011: Kenny G & I at South South Awards rehearsal

September 19, 2011: At the South South Awards with Ambassador Williams of Grenada and 1/3 of the 75 people I helped recruit, train, & manage over the past two and a half weeks in preparation for the South South Awards. It was an honor to work with such a brilliant team made of cum laudes, scholars, global leader awardees, executive directors & presidents of organizations, Master's & PhD graduates educated in the world's best universities, and individuals that are surely going to make an impact in our global community in the near future (if-not already). www.southsouthawards.com

September 19,2011: The South South Awards honors governments, organizations, and individuals, who have succeeded in scaling-up and replicating the implementation of the health-related Millennium Development Goals and beyond at the national level. This year, the preparatory committee has recommended Digital Health 4 Digital Development as the main theme for the awards. http://southsouthawards.com

September 20, 2011: In business & sustainability management class.

One of the things I enjoy most about class is having professionals who are working in related/relevant fields as classmates. This guy is just one of 170.

September 22, 2011: My third year covering the Clinton Global Initiative! For the recent times, unfortunately, I have been bogged down by life. CGI reminded me of my priorities and put my life back into perspective.

September 22, 2011: Two legendary activists Desmond Tutu & Aung San Suu Kyi discuss their struggles against oppression at Clinton Global Initiative.

September 22, 2011: President Bill, Clinton Hillary Clinton, and Chelsea Clinton at the closing plenary of the Clinton Global Initiative.

Bill is a lucky man, to have women in his life who embody strength & beauty and use their power to make a social impact that benefits society.

September 22, 2011: Trudy Syler & Sting receiving the "Leadership in Philantrophy" Award at the Clinton Global Citizen Awards from Morgan Freeman.

September 22, 2011: Iman introducing fellow Ethiopian, K'naan, at the Clinton Global Citizen Awards.

September 22, 2011: K'naan's performance at the Clinton Global Citizen Awards and his plea to help those suffering from drought & hunger in his country, Somalia, was truly inspiring.

September 22, 2011: ‎Sting's mind-blowing performance at the Clinton Global Initiative Awards.

Towards the end of his performance, the audience (world leaders including) stood up from their chairs and began to dance!

September 2011: My amateur blog reaches 28K readers ? Yikes! I wasn't aware people were interested in what I had to say. Even worse, my writing skills are horrible! Double yikes!

Life for the next two years... Am I ready???

Everything that I do is for you, I miss you little one...

South South Awards Press Release

noreply@blogger.com (Esperanza Garcia) — Sun, 18 Sep 2011 20:11:00 PDT

South-South Awards Media Alert- FINAL

South South Awards Volunteer Application

noreply@blogger.com (Esperanza Garcia) — Fri, 02 Sep 2011 14:34:00 PDT

http://southsouthawards.com

VOLUNTEERS

We are looking for 60 quality volunteers to help with the logistics of side events for the UN General Assembly High-Level Meeting (HLM) and the high-level event, South South Awards at the New York Waldorf Astoria Hotel on September 19, 2011 (Monday). Interested volunteers can choose to participate at the UN HLM side event and/or the South South Awards.

FIRST LADIES OFFICIAL SIDE EVENT AT THE UN HIGH LEVEL MEETING ON NON-COMMUNICABLE DISEASES (NCDS)

Volunteer shift: September 19, 2010, 8:00 am – 2:30 pm
Volunteers needed: 20

The Advanced Development for Africa (ADA) in collaboration with UN Women, the UN Digital He@lth Initiative, the ITU Women Network in ICT (WITNET), the GSMA mWomen Programme, and South South News is organizing an official side event in parallel with the UN High Level Meeting at the New York Waldorf Astoria Hotel on September 19, 2011 from 9:30 – 2:30 pm. The event will feature a series of keynotes and high-level roundtables under the theme “Empowering Women in the Era of Digital Technologies” and a First Ladies luncheon on “Fashion for Health” that shall bring together key players to discuss how ICTs can be leveraged to empower women and girls.

SOUTH SOUTH AWARDS

http://southsouthawards.com

Volunteer shift: September 19, 2010, 3:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Volunteers needed: 40

The South South Awards will be held on September 19, 2011 at the Waldorf Astoria in New York and will honor governments, organizations, and individuals, who have succeeded in scaling-up and replicating the implementation of the health-related Millennium Development Goals and beyond at the national level. This year, the preparatory committee has recommended Digital Health 4 Digital Development as the main theme for the awards.

CRITERIA:

1. Must be 17 years old and over for the UN-HLM side event and 21 years old and over for South-South Awards

2. Must be based in NYC or can be in NYC on:

a. September 6 – 14, 2011 to attend personal interview

b. September 14 & 16, 2011 for mandatory orientation, training, UN protocol brief, tour of the Waldorf-Astoria, and the meet-and-greet reception (after work-hours)

c. September 19, 2011 for South-South Awards & UN HLM side events

3. It is preferred that our volunteers are currently pursuing/have an undergraduate degree or higher

4. It is preferred to have experience in the UN, MDG, International Relations & Affairs, Public Policy, Broadcast Journalism, Political Science and/or other similar/related fields

5. Must have some knowledge of United Nations system and the UN Millennium Development Goals (MDG)

6. Must speak English fluently. Please note in application if fluent in other languages

VOLUNTEER COMMITTEES:

1. South South Awards Executive Committee assistance

These volunteers will get an access pass to the South South Awards and assist the South South Awards executive committee in event logistical support. This committee will also be greeting guests and responding to all attendee inquiries. They will also provide general support to the event operations team in orchestrating the setup and execution of the event. In addition, this committee will assist with seating arrangements at the Grand Ballroom and registration.

2. Directions/Greeting

Directions/Greeting volunteers will assist guests (high-level) from the main entrance to the grand ballroom of the Waldorf Astoria. Friendly individuals who enjoy light conversations and working with others will be best suited for this team.

3. Press Registration

Press registration volunteers will assist with the registration and logistics for all members of the press in attendance at the South South Awards. These volunteers will interact with members of the press to ensure that they adhere to their guidelines.

4. Side Events

South South News will be hosting the “First Ladies Official Side Event at the UN High Level Meeting. Volunteers will be assisting with the logistics of the event, registration, greetings & direction, and ensuring that the first-ladies and guests are comfortable. Volunteers will only be participating at the UN HLM side event, and not the South South Awards.

If you are interested in volunteering for the South-South Awards and the side-events for the UN HLM, please sign the application below and email your resume to egarcia@southsouthawards.com before DEADLINE SEPTEMBER 14, 2011 (Wednesday). As soon as we have reviewed your profile, we will be contacting you between September 6 – 14, 2011 for your interview at the South-South News office.

For more information on South-South News visit this link (http://southsouthawards.com/about-ss-news). This opportunity is a great way to network and meet like-minded individuals. We look forward to hearing from you and hopefully working with you.

Thank you so much,

Esperanza C. Garcia

South-South Awards

www.southsouthawards.com

e: egarcia@southsouthawards.com

t: +1 212-644-8789

That much closer to Times Square!

noreply@blogger.com (Esperanza Garcia) — Sun, 28 Aug 2011 23:28:00 PDT

Dear Friends,

For those of you have voted, thanks so much helping me get to the top 5%! My work is that much closer to being on a billboard in Times Square. If you haven't voted yet and have the time, I hope you can help support by heading to my about.me page and clicking "vote":
http://about.me/esperanzagarcia/.

Remember, you can vote once a day until September 20th. Every vote counts!

Yours in partnership,

Esperanza

Inspiration of the day: We are the leaders of today

noreply@blogger.com (Esperanza Garcia) — Thu, 18 Aug 2011 19:18:00 PDT

I invest my time & life in youth & environment

because of my desire and passion

to improve the the state of our world.

The young leaders who are working

on sustainable development today,

will build a better world for us in the future.

You just wait and see.

Time and again we prove that

WE are not the leaders of tomorrow,

WE are the leaders of today.

Members of the International Youth Movement at the UN Climate Change conference in Copenhagen using their bodies and stand in solidarity with Africa and vulnerable nations to declare: "We will not die quietly"(©Robert van Waarden - All Rights Reserved. To License Visit www.vanwaardenphoto.com)

Inspiration of the day: Count your blessings

noreply@blogger.com (Esperanza Garcia) — Thu, 18 Aug 2011 19:18:00 PDT

Every time I feel frustrated, I remind myself of the inspiring young & single mother I had met while campaigning during the 2011 Philippine elections who was earning less than $2/day and had to come home everyday to feed her 3 beautiful children under the age of 5. Count your blessings.

Photo Credit: Vito Selma www.vitoselma.tumblr.com

Inspiration of the day: It's an exciting time to be alive

noreply@blogger.com (Esperanza Garcia) — Thu, 18 Aug 2011 19:17:00 PDT

"It's an exciting time to be alive." My colleague and friend, Anna Oposa says. This is the exact same thing my forefathers had said when my country gained our (Philippine) independence from the 300-year Spanish regime, or during the time when ignorance was ignored and the beginning of curiosity was encouraged and awakened the world during the Renaissance, or when the Americans revolted against authority that was unbending through the American Revolution. I am confident we will rise through the greatest challenge in the history of our time and emulate the great generations before us who have made pivotal moments that have defined our present and we will become another great generation who will provide generations after us a bright & sustainable human future. I resonate Anna's sentiments, it is an exciting time indeed.

YOU ARE INVITED: International Youth Council Global Youth Mixer July 21 in NYC

noreply@blogger.com (Esperanza Garcia) — Mon, 18 Jul 2011 07:35:00 PDT

International Youth Council Global Youth Mixer July 21 in NYC

Come network with changemakers and young global leaders!

IYC Global Youth Mixer

With Guest Speaker Ron Bruder: 2011 Time Magazine "100 Most Influential People in the World"

Founder of the Education for Employment Foundation

Date: Thursday July 21, 2011

Time: 7:00pm-10:30pm

Location: Sound Lounge Roof Deck

160 East 38th St. 36th floor

Guest Entry Level: $20
Food
*Drinks available for purchase
Must be 21+ to Drink
For more information check out the Facebook Event Page and refer to the Flier attached.

http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=119801641448062

Beautiful SKYLINES and great conversation are just a couple of highlights of this Thursday night mixer!! We'll eat some delicious food- and we'll network with some of today’s Youth Leaders & innovators!

Hope to see you there!

P.S: Invite all your friends and everyone in your network!

Inspiration of the Day: Dance as if no one is watching

noreply@blogger.com (Esperanza Garcia) — Sun, 17 Jul 2011 08:16:00 PDT

“You’ve gotta dance like there’s nobody watching,
Love like you’ll never be hurt,
Sing like there’s nobody listening,
And live like it’s heaven on earth.”
— William W. Purkey

It's midterms week this week and music is helping me get by. If you ever feel like getting on your feet and dancing, play this music playlist that I made and I hope you enjoy it!

Create a playlist at MixPod.com

Read more »

Inspiration of the Day: Cherish your solitude, Believe in kissing

noreply@blogger.com (Esperanza Garcia) — Fri, 15 Jul 2011 20:22:00 PDT

"Cherish your solitude. Take trains by yourself to places you have never been. Sleep out alone under the stars. Learn how to drive a stick shift. Go so far away that you stop being afraid of not coming back. Say no when you don’t want to do something. Say yes if your instincts are strong, even if everyone around you disagrees. Decide whether you want to be liked or admired. Decide if fitting in is more important than finding out what you’re doing here. Believe in kissing." — Eve Ensler

I spent a good hour or so compiling this music playlist. It's a great playlist to listen to when you're looking for some chill time alone or with someone you'd want to relax with. Hope you have a happy weekend!

Create a playlist at MixPod.com

Read more »

A Newbies Guide To Renewable Energy in US

noreply@blogger.com (Esperanza Garcia) — Fri, 15 Jul 2011 04:33:00 PDT

(Click to enlarge) [Via: Carrington College's Renewable Energy Degree Program]

Renewable energy is the fastest growing energy sector, despite the fact we still get the majority of our power from non-renewable sources. Oil, coal and fossil fuels are not only in limited supply, but are also detrimental to the health of the planet. On the other hand, renewable energy is in infinite supply and draws its power cleanly and naturally. Solar, wind, water and geothermal energy sources are the future of the industry and are expected to create 12 million new jobs through 2030. (via Carrington College)

Bringing light to the poor, one liter at a time (via reuters)

noreply@blogger.com (Esperanza Garcia) — Thu, 14 Jul 2011 03:49:00 PDT

Video Description: A bottled liter of water with a few teaspoons of bleach is proving to be a successful recipe for dwellers in the light-deprived slums of the Philippines. The simple technology, made known by eco-entrepreneur, Illac Diaz, is spreading sunlight in places where it has never been, and saving residents money at the same time.