“POWER ON” FOR THE PLANET
By Shemika Spencer, Blue Planet Alliance Global Ambassador
Attending Climate Week NYC 2025 was an unforgettable experience and a powerful reminder of why I chose to be part of the global climate movement. Climate Week brings together leaders from business, government, and civil society to accelerate real action on climate solutions. It’s a space where ideas become partnerships and conversations turn into impact from local community projects to international climate policy.
This year’s theme, “Power On,” reflected the progress being made worldwide in clean energy, climate finance, technology, green jobs, and climate justice. The message was clear: the transition to a sustainable future is already underway, and together, we have the power to keep it moving forward.
As a Global Ambassador for Blue Planet Alliance, I had the opportunity to witness firsthand how collaboration and innovation can drive meaningful change. Representing Antigua and Barbuda at Climate Week was a proud moment, highlighting the perspective of small island nations that are among the most vulnerable to climate impacts but also among the most determined to lead in renewable energy and resilience. Our voices matter in shaping the global climate conversation, and being part of this platform reminded me that every action, no matter the size, contributes to a more sustainable future.
Meeting Vice President Al Gore
One of the highlights of Climate Week was having the incredible opportunity to meet former U.S. Vice President Al Gore, a lifelong advocate for climate action, together with members of Blue Planet Alliance. It was both an honor and a moment of inspiration to speak with someone who has dedicated decades to raising awareness about the climate crisis.
After meeting him, we attended The Climate Reality Project, where he delivered a powerful and thought-provoking address. He used the wheel metaphor to describe the state of global climate action, explaining that while some “little wheels” may turn the wrong way or slow progress, the overall movement is still pushing forward toward positive change. His message was clear: progress is happening, but time is critical.
He also highlighted alarming warnings from scientists, particularly about vulnerable regions like small island nations, and pointed to the Humboldt Current as an example of how climate disruptions are already unfolding. The Humboldt Current, which brings cold, nutrient-rich water from the deep ocean to the surface along the Pacific coast of South America, has recently shown signs of slowing and irregular upwelling. This disruption affects marine life, food chains, and coastal communities that depend on healthy ocean systems a clear sign of how interconnected and fragile our climate system has become.
Despite these challenges, the underlying tone of his message was one of hope and determination. He reminded us that success is possible if we act with urgency, equity, and science as our guide. As someone representing a small island nation, his words resonated deeply with me reinforcing why youth and island voices must continue to lead in this global conversation.
Blue Planet Alliance at Climate Week NYC
Beyond attending public sessions and discussions, I also had the opportunity to take part in several activities hosted by Blue Planet Alliance during Climate Week. The organization held a series of gatherings that brought together Global Ambassadors, partners, and sustainability leaders creating a space to connect, collaborate, and share ideas for accelerating island resilience and renewable transformation.
One of the highlights was the Global Ambassador and Partnership Dinner, where I had the chance to meet and network with individuals working across different areas of the climate movement. The conversations were inspiring and reinforced how powerful collaboration can be when people from diverse regions share one mission.
Another memorable moment was attending the Tides of Innovation: Caribbean for a Climate-Smart Future event, led by Blue Planet Alliance Caribbean Director, Kneyone Murray. The discussion focused on regional innovation, green technology, and partnerships driving sustainable development across the islands.
The week ended with the Blue Planet Alliance Climate Impact Talks and Team Dinner, which brought together ambassadors and guests for an evening of reflection, connection, and forward thinking. It was a reminder that the work we’re doing isn’t just about policy, it's about people coming together to protect the planet and each other.
Climate Week 2025 reminded me that every action counts,whether it’s a global summit or a community project back home in Antigua and Barbuda. Seeing world leaders, Global Ambassadors, and innovators unite around one goal showed that collaboration is our most powerful tool in the fight against climate change.
It was especially meaningful to see fellow Caribbean leaders from St. Kitts and Nevis and Trinidad and Tobago, alongside other island nations, standing with global representatives. All were committed to a shared vision of resilience and renewable transformation. It proved that small islands are not on the sidelines; we are leading.
As a Global Ambassador for Blue Planet Alliance, I left New York more inspired than ever. The conversations, the connections, and the collective energy reminded me that progress is not a distant dream, it’s happening now. Climate Week wasn’t just an event; it was a call to keep working, keep inspiring, and keep powering on together for a sustainable future.
From Antigua and Barbuda to New York, one mission stays the same: Power on for the planet.