Two days ago, we had the chance to meet with the Chinese Youth Climate Action Network (CYCAN) – part of the International Youth Climate Movement. Not only did they demonstrate the professionalism of an established organisation, they also shared the energy, passion and commitment of our global community which spans each and every continent of the globe. From Africa to America and Europe to Oceania, young people everywhere are mobilising and this is the story of the Chinese youth.

The Chinese Youth Climate Action Network (CYCAN) was formed in 2007 and has witnessed parallel growth to UKYCC over the past two years. Already, a team of dedicated young volunteers have supported 350′s day of action, sent one of the largest youth delegations to the climate negotiations in Copenhagen and they have a blueprint to achieve similar objectives for the next 12 months, including a conference similar to Powershift.

The meeting took place in a small hotel room in central Beijing. We came together for the first time since both of our organisations were established. We discussed issues ranging from Copenhagen, our respective projects and the media amongst many other things. In all of these conversations, one thing was clear. The CYCAN is inspired, they are empowered and they have mobilised within a global movement.

Yet just like China, one thing became apparent. Yes the CYCAN have witnessed some significant outcomes and achievements but just like UKYCC, the other young people who we met in China and the Chinese state, it is an organisation that is still developing, it is an organisation that still needs our help.

Although UKYCC is not a perfect model, we do have a lot of experience and in the UK, we have a lot to offer. We have a strong team of more than 40 appointed volunteers, connections to thousands of young people and hundreds of partner organisations and the ability to run an array of projects, campaigns and events throughout the year. Across the country there are similar young people who have achieved just as much. Through sharing these experiences and by building personal relationships with young people abroad, we can learn so much more.

This is not to say that UKYCC should be the only one to support the CYCAN, any young person, or any organisation abroad, all of us can build a relationship overseas. What’s more important, it doesn’t need to involve a carbon intensive flight to the other side of the world. The internet is the most powerful tool, it keeps UKYCC together and it enables us to communicate with like-minded young people across the world. It is through this platform that you can do exactly the same.

In the coming weeks, UKYCC will be launching a climate penpals scheme for you to join the existing networks that we have established. If you’re an organisation, then it will not take too long to find a global partner and if you need help, there are many domestic organisations who can help.

Our commitment to solving the climate crisis is not only local or national, it is international and yes we have seen China take positive action to combat climate change but our ties to the developing world can be strengthened. These projects have been driven by young people, so let us make sure that they can continue to become more powerful and more effective.