About GLF Nairobi 2023: ‘A new Vision for Earth’
The GLF Nairobi 2023 Hybrid Conference, held on October 11 and 12, convened global thought leaders to set the stage for COP28, the upcoming UN Climate Change Conference. This pivotal event mobilised action on critical issues affecting humanity, biodiversity, and our planet.
The conference featured two focused days: Day 1 centered on “Africa’s Sovereign Solutions,” exploring pathways to a sustainable and prosperous future for the continent. Day 2, dedicated to climate, aimed to craft a “Survival Guide for a Planet in Crisis,” paving the way for a fairer world ahead of COP28.
GLF Nairobi brought together a diverse coalition of influential voices, ranging from scientists, activists, and Indigenous leaders to financiers, women, youth, policymakers, and private sector representatives. As a united front, we collectively championed change and passionately advocated for meaningful action in these pivotal times.
About Samara Polwatta
Join us on an inspiring journey with Samara Polwatta, the 2023 Oceans Restoration Steward, as she shares her vision for Earth.
Samara Polwatta is a PhD candidate at the University of British Columbia under the Institute of Fisheries and Oceans. She hopes to conduct her research in Sri Lanka looking at the impacts of bottom trawling and fisheries management.
Samara and her team were recently awarded the title of best nature-based solution by the Wageningen University Student Challenge for their project “School meets the reef.” They engaged in rehabilitation of the coral reef on the eastern coast of Sri Lanka using reef balls and under water nursery. Along with restoration, she also conducted several school programs for secondary school children on the importance of coastal ecosystems and restoration practices.
