SE4ALL, Meet BPA
By Kerese Elliott, Blue Planet Alliance Global Ambassador
Attending the Sustainable Energy for All (SE4All) conference in Barbados this month as a Blue Planet Alliance Ambassador was a game-changing experience — one that reshaped my perspective on sustainable energy and innovation. This platform not only deepened my understanding of clean-energy solutions but also provided invaluable connections and insights into how Small Island Developing States (SIDS) can take bold steps toward a sustainable future.
What Is SE4All?
SE4All, a global initiative launched by Damilola Ogunbiyi, CEO and Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General (UN SRSG) for Sustainable Energy for All, and Co-Chair of UN-Energy. Through SE4All, the aim is to ensure universal access to modern energy services through the smart use of data; improve energy efficiency through the involvement of the private sector; and increase the use of renewable energy worldwide through new partnerships. For many countries and organizations, this aligns perfectly with their ambitious goals of achieving 100% renewable energy by 2030.
A Shared Vision for Clean Energy
At the opening of the SE4All event in Barbados, Hon. Lisa Cummins, Minister of Energy and Business Development, set the tone with a powerful message: that the same discussions around sustainable energy have been circulating for the past decade. However, she emphasized that this event must go beyond talk. “For the next two days, I want us to transition legitimate conversations into deliverables,” she stated, urging stakeholders to shift their focus from dialogue to tangible action. Her remarks underscored the urgent need for implementation in the Caribbean’s sustainable-energy transition. As discussions unfold at SE4All Barbados, the goal is clear: drive real progress toward a cleaner, more resilient energy future.
Discussions at last year’s UN climate conference — COP29 in Azerbaijan — emphasized the urgent need for tangible action in the fight against climate change. As the global community prepares for COP30 in Brazil this November, the President of COP29 was in Barbados, noting that Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) will be instrumental in shaping a synthesis ahead of next year’s conference, setting the stage for a more structured and impactful climate agenda.
In a keynote address, Dr. Qasem Fallatah of Forward 7 — a Middle East green initiative to provide clean cooking solutions worldwide — stressed the importance of unity in creating a cleaner, more just future. Acknowledging that achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) may no longer be feasible within the initial timelines, he underscored the need for innovation and localized solutions — recognizing that a one-size-fits-all approach is impractical. Instead of relying on temporary fixes, Dr. Fallatah called for long-term, sustainable solutions that ensure clean energy is accessible to all.
A Future Where Clean Energy Is for Everyone
The consensus from these discussions is evident — climate leadership must move beyond rhetoric. Leaders are committed to ensuring sustainable-energy solutions that go beyond temporary measures, steering the world toward a future where clean energy is not a privilege but a universal right.
As COP30 approaches, the world watches with anticipation — will the commitments made today translate into action tomorrow? The time for incremental progress is over. Now is the time to implement solutions that create lasting change.
Innovation in Action: Rum & Sargassum
One of the standout moments for me, personally, was being introduced to Dr. Legena Henry, the Founder and CEO of Rum & Sargassum, a business that transforms sargassum seaweed — often seen as an environmental nuisance — into a valuable resource. This creative approach to sustainability demonstrated how waste can become wealth, reinforcing the idea that innovation is key in the fight against climate change. Seeing such an initiative firsthand opened my eyes to the endless possibilities for sustainable energy and resource management.
BPA Global Ambassador Kerese Elliott and Dr. Legena Henry
The Road to 100% Renewable Energy in St. Kitts & Nevis
Another highlight was hearing from past Blue Planet Alliance Fellow, Clement Williams, who spoke about the achievable pathway for St. Kitts and Nevis to become 100% renewable by 2030–2035 using geothermal, wind, and solar PV. Learning about the Federation's Sustainable Island State Agenda reinforced the reality that transitioning to clean energy is not just an aspiration — it is an attainable goal. Seeing these strategies being implemented in my country was both inspiring and motivating to continue advocating for climate action.
BPA Fellow Clement Williams
Hon. Prime Minister Mia Mottley’s Call to Action for SIDS
Perhaps the most impactful moment was hearing Barbados’ Hon. Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley, whom some may call the face of Climate Action, urge SIDS to take advantage of available climate financing. Her powerful words emphasized that we must forge our own path in the fight against climate change—leveraging innovation, financial resources, and regional collaboration to drive meaningful change. Her speech was a wake-up call that we have the tools, the funding, and the vision; what’s needed now is the will to execute.
She further urged global leaders to confront climate challenges as they are, rather than framing them through an idealized lens. She emphasized the need for a global compact that considers the interests of all nations, creating a bridge between those who support aggressive climate action and those who resist change.
Her message was clear: being “developed” will not help anyone — but being “practical” will. The focus must be on realistic, actionable solutions that address the economic and social disparities preventing global climate progress.
Youth Empowerment Through OECS Commission
A defining aspect of SE4All was the recognition of youth voices in the climate movement. The OECS Commission played a critical role in this by providing a platform for young leaders, including myself and BPA Caribbean Director Kneyone Murray, to share our insights and perspectives. Being interviewed alongside other Caribbean youth representatives underscored the importance of youth engagement in the energy transition. It was a reminder that our generation is not just the future — we are active participants in shaping a sustainable world today and we must play an active role in securing our future.
Kerese Elliott and Kneyone Murray
A Game-Changing Experience
SE4All was more than just a conference — it was a transformative experience that expanded my vision for sustainable energy. From seeing innovative businesses in action to hearing about real-world solutions and being empowered as a youth ambassador, this event reinforced the urgency and the possibilities that lie ahead. As we move forward, it is crucial to turn knowledge into action and ensure that SIDS lead the way in building a sustainable, resilient future.
The question is no longer if we can achieve 100% renewable energy — it is when. And the time to act is now. The transition to renewable energy requires collective action. Whether you are a policymaker, business owner, or concerned citizen, your voice and efforts can make a difference.
