Journey of a Youth Champion for Environmental and Climate Action
UNICEF’s Youth Advocate, on Environmental and Climate Action in Lao PDR, Chan, recounts her advocacy journey and her vision for the world she wants to see.
Chanphone Xongchaiyieu (Chan), 18, is UNICEF Lao PDR’s first Youth Advocate. She has worked with local communities in her home province as well as UNICEF to raise awareness about environmental issues in the country and advocate for environmental and climate action.
This World Children’s Day, we celebrate Chan’s efforts to create a world where “children and young people have a right to a safe and livable planet”. With an illustration by Kingkanda Souliya, here Chan introduces herself and reflects on what her journey as a Youth Advocate means to her, and the world she wants to see.
Hi, my name is Chanphone Xongchaiyieu. I’m a girl who grew up in the northern part of Laos. When I was 12 years old, I often followed my brother to clean up public parks. At that time, I didn’t understand why we came to clean there because it was not our duty and was not our house. One day, I decided to question the purpose of our early morning endeavors, wondering why we took on a task seemingly beyond our responsibility. His response resonated with me deeply: “If it is not us who shoulder the environmental responsibility, then who? And if it is not now, then when?”. This sparked another thought-provoking question: “If others share your confusion, who will step forward as a role model to transform our city into a clean and thriving environment?”. It was a revelation that ignited my commitment to that change and inspired others to join the journey towards a cleaner and greener city.
In my earlier years, environmental issues seemed distant as I hadn’t personally encountered them. When I was around 15 years old, my perspective shifted as my province encountered increased instances of floods, landslides, and other natural disasters linked to climate change. I witnessed the profound impact on families, with some losing their houses and their children. This made me think more deeply about the issue and inspired my passion in advocating for a cleaner and greener community and environment. I tried to learn more about these issues and spread awareness in the village, school, and publicly. Eventually, this passion evolved into a dream of championing environmental development through impactful advertising and led me to become a Youth Advocate for UNICEF Laos, to help amplify my efforts to create a more sustainable world.
“This planet is home to 8 billion people. If we neglect its care and refuse to protect it, who will take responsibility? The power to ignite change starts with us. Be the change for a brighter, cleaner, and greener future.” - Chanphone Xongchaiyieu
To follow my dream, I have seized the opportunity to not just talk but actively promote and advocate for environmental and climate change awareness. My dream is unfolding as I traverse numerous provinces in Laos to share insights and practical advice on fostering a healthier environment for all, especially children and young people. By setting an example, I hope to inspire others to join me in the pursuit of a sustainable future, encouraging the simple yet impactful actions of reducing, reusing, and recycling for the betterment of our environment and generations to come.
As we celebrate World Children's Day, let's envision a world where good intentions for the environment soar. Imagine people actively contributing to the well-being of our planet—reusing what's reusable, recycling to give products a new life, and consciously reducing our ecological footprint. The dream of a better environment and a positive impact on humanity lies in our hands. Let's make it a reality together, proving that a sustainable world is not just a wish but a choice we actively make.
