In a world grappling with urgent environmental challenges, youth-led initiatives are emerging as powerful catalysts for change. Diego Arreola Fernandez, a fourth-year undergraduate at the University of Toronto's Faculty of Arts & Science majoring in International Relations & Economics, is a young entrepreneur championing sustainability. He is the founder of Green Speaking, a non-profit organization that has, since 2020, empowered young people across the globe – from Mexico to Kenya, Thailand, India, and beyond – to become agents of change in environmental progress.
Through conferences, workshops, and online spaces, Green Speaking offers support, amplifies youth voices, and connects them with resources to build impactful climate campaigns, reaching over 5,000 young people across continents.
Roots of a Movement: From Mexico City to U of T
Arreola Fernandez recognized the need to amplify youth voices in the climate movement and built Green Speaking to do just that. The seeds of Green Speaking were sown in his early years in Mexico City. Raised with a deep respect for the environment, he recalls transformative experiences instilled by his family. “My mom always taught me to leave spaces better than I found them,” Arreola Fernandez shares, recalling early trips to liberate turtles in Huatulco and beach cleanups. His grandmother, an avid community volunteer in Oaxaca, also played a role in shaping his commitment to conservation. This foundation of ecological and community responsibility proved vital in his journey to found Green Speaking.
However, it wasn't until he attended Ocean Heroes Bootcamp in Vancouver in 2019 that his vision truly began to take shape. Surrounded by young environmentalists and changemakers, Arreola Fernandez found his passion for speaking up for the planet — and a drive to help others find and use their voices. "It showed me that young people can make a huge impact," he says, adding that the experience empowered him to pursue his vision of a global network of confident young environmental advocates.
Supported by a bilingual education at Colegio CEYCA and by the opportunities provided through U of T as a Lester B. Pearson Scholar, Arreola Fernandez began turning his vision into reality. He found his first collaborators among friends from his school days, many of whom are still involved in Green Speaking today. Studying at U of T also expanded his reach, opening doors to partner with international organizations and participate in multilateral events such as COP28 and the UN’s INC-4.
Empowering Voices: Green Speaking's Global Impact
Green Speaking’s mission is to inspire and empower youth, especially in the Global South, to lead the fight against climate change. The organization educates children and young adults on pressing topics like environmental sciences, climate policy, and sustainability while nurturing skills in public speaking and advocacy. Through both in-person and virtual programs, Green Speaking creates an inclusive space for young people to share ideas, learn, and find the confidence to effect change.
One of the organization’s greatest achievements has been organizing conferences in countries like Kenya, Mexico, and Thailand, where hundreds of young people have been inspired to launch climate initiatives of their own. For example, Clean Delivery, Ban Bottles and Bags in Bangkok, and Green Seal were some campaigns that emerged from the Chao Phraya Youth Summit in Thailand. “Seeing them grow in confidence and make a difference in their communities is the most rewarding part of this journey,” Arreola Fernandez says. Collaborations with numerous organizations such as EarthEcho International, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of South Korea, and U of T’s Trash Team have only strengthened Green Speaking’s ability to support youth-driven climate projects globally.
Overcoming Challenges, Building Sustainability
Running a non-profit while balancing university and work has brought its share of challenges, Arreola Fernandez admits. “Finding time to keep things running smoothly can be tough, especially since we’re all volunteers,” he explains. Additionally, limited funding, often tied to specific events, presents obstacles. But Arreola Fernandez remains undeterred, exploring new avenues for fundraising and sponsorship to sustain and expand Green Speaking’s impact.
A Vision for the Future: Integrating Environmental Justice into Education
Looking to the future, Arreola Fernandez's vision for Green Speaking is ambitious. He dreams of a world where environmental justice is integral to education systems worldwide. “In 10 or 20 years, I hope that every young person will have access to climate advocacy education, just like learning math or reading,” he says. Arreola Fernandez envisions Green Speaking as a partner to governments and NGOs, creating a world where every child and youth has the skills to lead in environmental action.
Be Part of The Solution
For those inspired to make a difference but unsure where to start, Arreola Fernandez offers simple advice: “Look at your strengths and passions and think about how they can contribute to the environmental movement. Any action, no matter how small, is better than doing nothing. Find resources and connect with others in your community — you’d be surprised by the impact you can make together.”
To support their ever-growing list of initiatives, Green Speaking is expanding its team. They currently have a number of opportunities available for those passionate about sustainability and who want to get more involved. You can find more information and explore ways to make a difference in the fight against climate change on Green Speaking's Instagram account.
With Diego Arreola Fernandez and Green Speaking leading the way, a new generation of empowered environmental advocates is rising, ready to build a global community dedicated to a more sustainable world. His journey shows that with passion, innovation, and dedication, young people can create impactful ventures that drive real sustainable change.