Youth empowerment and connection across the flyway: The Pacific Americas Flyway Youth Forum

By: María Elisa Sánchez – PAFYF

Wetlands are among the most critical yet threatened ecosystems on the planet. They provide essential habitats for migratory birds, support biodiversity, and offer crucial ecosystem services such as carbon storage and flood protection. However, these vital ecosystems are disappearing at an alarming rate, threatening not only wildlife but also the livelihoods and cultural traditions of local communities.

Recognizing the urgency of wetland conservation and the power of youth engagement, Youth Engaged in Wetlands (YEW) and World Wetland Network (WWN), together with many other organizations including the Coastal Solutions Fellows Program, are launching the Pacific Americas Flyway Youth Forum—a dynamic, virtual gathering designed to equip young conservationists with the skills, knowledge, and networks needed to protect wetlands along the flyway.

Spanning from the Arctic regions of Chukotka in Russia, across Alaska, and down to Tierra del Fuego, the Pacific Americas Flyway is a vital migratory route for millions of birds. Yet, habitat loss, climate change, and human activities increasingly threaten these essential stopover and breeding sites. Engaging youth in conservation is key to ensuring long-term protection for these ecosystems.

What the Forum Aims to Achieve

The Pacific Americas Flyway Youth Forum will bring together 200-250 young leaders working in wetland conservation. Through workshops, discussions, and networking opportunities, participants will:

• Strengthen their capacity to lead flyway conservation initiatives.
  
• Connect with peers, experts, and organizations across the flyway.
  
• Gain visibility for their ongoing conservation efforts.
  
• Explore innovative solutions to wetland and migratory bird conservation challenges.
  
  Why Youth Engagement Matters

A survey conducted by YEW in 2020 highlighted key challenges young conservationists face: lack of funding, limited access to training, and fewer opportunities to showcase their work. Addressing these barriers is essential for ensuring that young people can meaningfully contribute to conservation efforts.

In response, this forum aims to create a supportive network where youth can exchange ideas, build collaborations, and access the resources needed to make conservation a viable career path. With the theme of “Shared Spaces – Creating Bird-friendly Cities and Communities” (aligned with World Migratory Bird Day 2025), discussions will explore how wetland conservation intersects with urban landscapes and local communities.

How You Can Support

This forum is designed to be free and accessible to young conservationists across the flyway. To make this possible, we need a wide network of support. A diversity of contributions and collaborations will help us provide training, resources, and opportunities for youth to take meaningful action in wetland conservation. If you want to learn more about the program and help us build a future where wetlands and migratory birds thrive, please visit our website.