Released yesterday to coincide with International Youth Day, the latest episode of the Shared Goals podcast hears from Sarah and Ronan, members of the Northern Ireland Commissioner for Children and Young People’s (NICCY) youth panel.

They consider the empowering potential of human rights, the importance of education on the many human rights affected by climate change, and how they have integrated the Sustainable Developments Goals into their work, as well as providing tips and inspiration for other young people who might want to do their bit for the environment.

The episode highlights the work being done by the NICCY youth panel to amplify the voice of young people, to encourage collaboration and inspire action on climate change.

Alyson Kilpatrick, chief commissioner of the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission, said: “The Commission was delighted to be given the opportunity to sit down with Sarah and Ronan from the NICCY youth panel.

“Their passion, enthusiasm, and drive for tackling climate change shines through in this episode, with their contributions being both informative and inspiring.

“The message is loud and clear — human rights are a tool to empower young people, giving them a voice and a platform to express themselves, to stand up for themselves and to reach their full potential.

“In the case of addressing climate change and the challenges it presents, young people must be at the centre of conversations and efforts to protect our future.

“Thank you to Sarah and Ronan, the youth panel and NICCY for the opportunity to discuss this very important topic as part of International Youth Day 2025.”

Sarah and Ronan said: “Taking part in the Shared Goals podcast was a fantastic opportunity to share the work that we do as NICCY youth panel members and talk about the projects we have worked on, from creating the environmental event ‘Hear Our Voices’ back in March to advocating the importance of children’s rights.

“We are so passionate about making sure our voices are heard, and we want to encourage children and young people to understand the power of defending their rights.”

Chris Quinn, the Northern Ireland commissioner for children and young people, added: “I am delighted that Sarah and Ronan were invited to speak on NI Human Rights Commission’s podcast series.

“I’m so proud of them, and other child’s rights defenders across NI. It’s really important that young people talk about their rights. Now more than ever, when children’s rights are being so grossly violated.

“The podcast’s host, Tara Grace Connolly, is inspiring for her work in the field of child and human rights. It is wonderful that Tara Grace continues to advocate for young people’s voices to be heard from when I met her over 15 years ago, when she was around Sarah and Ronan’s age.

“Having platforms that enable young people to amplify their voices, is inspiring and empowering. It’s important that adults listen and take their views into account. Ultimately, I aspire to ensure the right for children and young people have a say on issues that affect them is protected in law.

“It is brilliant to hear how the episode emphasises their heartfelt passion and dedication to promoting children’s rights, climate change issues, and their commitment to encourage peers to stand up for themselves and act on what they believe in.”