Finding a tribe: Young people unite at annual environment summit

Sunshine, laughter, and the unmistakable buzz of young voices filled the Wharfedale Valley in Buckden as the Youth Environment Forum came together for its annual summit recently. Set in one of the most stunning corners of the Yorkshire Dales, the weekend celebrated community, resilience, and the power of youth-led action.

Image - Youth Summit participants learn about peatland restoration. www.georgecarrmedia.com

This year’s theme—community and selfsufficiency—was chosen by the young people themselves, and it couldn’t have been more fitting. If there’s one thing the Youth Environment Forum represents, it’s a tribe: a close-knit network of passionate, environmentally conscious individuals determined to shape a better future.

One participant summed it up perfectly: “The Youth Summit is well anticipated every year. I love the learning, the crafts, the walks—but most of all, the people. The environment created here is truly special, and everyone has a chance to display their interests and skills. I LOVED the farm visit and helping lead the walk. Being able to run sessions like bookbinding and my little talk let me share things I care about. Youth Forum has played a pivotal part in my life.”

Image - Youth Summit participants exploring the Yorkshire Dales landscape. www.georgecarrmedia.com

The Summit enabled participants to roll up their sleeves and immerse themselves in the landscape. A visit to a local peat bog with the Peat Partnership also opened their eyes to the vital role peatlands play in carbon storage and climate change mitigation. There, they got up close with the delicate mosses that quietly sustain ecosystems.

Later, a trip to Yockenthwaite Farm—familiar to fans of All Creatures Great and Small—highlighted how traditional farming can evolve to work hand-in-hand with nature.

At the core of the weekend were workshops designed and led by the young people. Topics included mending clothes, campaign planning,
and exploring what makes youth movements successful. Sessions were hands-on and empowering—one young person even led a bookbinding workshop.

Image - Youth Summit participants engaged in a workshop. www.georgecarrmedia.com

As the sun dipped behind the hills, the group prepared a meal together over a campfire. They mastered outdoor cooking skills, using Dutch
ovens and open flames to create a shared feast—fostering both self-reliance and community spirit.

One of the participants, Rachel, said: ‘‘There is something lovely about sitting around a fire learning new skills together, it fosters great friendship.’’

As bags were packed and goodbyes exchanged, one thing was clear: the Youth Environment Forum is more than just a weekend event. It’s a growing movement rooted in hope, connection, and the belief that change begins with community.

 

More about our work with young people

---