Bristol Somali Youth Voice has been actively promoting climate change awareness through cycling sessions and group discussions. We use cycling as a workshop model, creating spaces where young people and residents come together, share experiences, reflect on the impact of climate change, and co-create locally relevant solutions.
Our aim is to shift climate discussions from the policy level to the community level, where people can directly connect with the issues that affect their daily lives. By doing so, we strengthen ownership, foster social cohesion, and build resilience.
We are especially committed to empowering young people from underrepresented communities, who are often missing from climate discussions. These sessions give them the tools and confidence to better understand how climate change and environmental inequality impact their lives, and to consider what they can do individually and collectively to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and carbon footprints.
Young people who have joined our cycling and discussion sessions are now stepping forward as climate champions, inspired to take action in their households, schools, and neighborhoods.
Ali, one of our climate change champions, said:
“I prefer to be a climate change champion, something that hasn’t got my attention before. Today climate change is everyone’s problem and we need to do our bit—promoting active transport, reflecting on myself, and inspiring my household, family members, and friends to stop driving cars and adopt healthier, greener habits.”
Abdulle, 14 years old , from Lawrence Hill, said:
“I’m pleased to be a part of this. It improved my understanding, and I want to do my bit to tackle the impact of climate change. Everyone should think about what they can do—like walking, cycling, or using public transport. Cycling helps the environment and also improves health.”
Mohamed A. Sayaqle, from Bristol Somali Youth Voice, added:
“We want to inspire more young people to feel more confident engaging in climate discussions. This also helps us raise awareness at the community level—by conserving energy or cutting carbon footprints. Through these efforts, many young people from underrepresented groups, especially those from ethnic minority backgrounds who often associate climate discussions with economic class, are engaging and contributing. They are linking climate responsibility to everyday life and local priorities, and this is so important.”
This is inspiring young leaders but also connecting local realities with broader global fight against climate change. Encouraging more people to consider what to do individually to reduce air pollutions and to protect the environment, promoting healthy and positive habit at community level.
Finally, we would like to thank the Family Hire Scheme of Eastside for their ongoing support in providing extra bicycles whenever demand exceeds capacity. Special thanks also to all the staff, volunteers, and participants who make this work possible.