In early September, Palladium teams from across the U.S., Uganda, and the Netherlands took part in the Global Youth Economic Opportunities (GYEO) Summit hosted by Making Cents International in Washington, DC, joining more than 500 participants from 75 countries.

The Summit’s theme, “Youth Driving the Green Economy,” spotlighted the pivotal role young people play in tackling climate change through economic opportunity. Green jobs — roles that contribute to preserving or restoring the environment — were a major focus, along with related topics such as waste management, climate finance, and sustainable agriculture. Palladium’s teams and presentations emphasised key initiatives, including the Challenge Fund for Youth Employment (CFYE), Climate Smart Jobs (CSJ) and Partnerships for Forests (P4F), which promote both job creation and landscape preservation.

“Our programs bring together youth, education, and business leaders to work collaboratively on innovative solutions for job creation, training, climate-smart agriculture, and financing to protect landscapes,” explains Katy Vickland, Palladium Workforce Development Technical Director. These initiatives create lasting impact by ensuring local communities can continue the work long after the project has ended.

For example, the Partnerships for Forests' Financing Nature Database continues to connect landscape preservation projects with investors, creating long-term sustainability, months after the program ended. “We connect individual actors and groups with the skills and relationships they need to keep driving these efforts forward,” she adds.

CFYE featured in three sessions, alongside partners INCLUDE Knowledge Platform, and VSO, discussing youth-centered approaches and green job opportunities for youth. Those sessions explored the growing demand for green jobs, particularly in sectors like agriculture and waste management. In the session “Green Jobs Unleashed,” Palladium delved into youth employment opportunities in Africa’s waste recycling sector. The interactive workshop highlighted both the challenges and opportunities young people face in this industry.

In addition to tackling waste management, the team also presented innovations in agriculture. “Cultivating Green Jobs: Innovative Models and Tools for Youth Green Jobs in Agriculture” featuring Palladium’s Climate Smart Jobs program, which is transforming the agricultural sector by introducing sustainable, environmentally friendly farming practices. “Our work in climate-smart agriculture helps local farmers adapt to the realities of climate change, while also creating employment opportunities for young people,” says Matthew Rupanga, Climate Smart Jobs program Team Leader.

The session explored case studies and tools that empower communities to overcome barriers to green jobs, emphasising systemic approaches that benefit both the environment and the economy.

In “The Future of Work is Green and Digital: Research and Results from Kenya and Nigeria,” Palladium, CFYE, and VSO explored how green and digital skills converge to transform the employment landscape for youth. The session showcased effective program models and sector insights that emphasise the pivotal role youth and the private sector play in addressing the challenges posed by climate change.

Throughout the event, says Vickland, Palladium teams and programs demonstrated how they operate at the intersection of sustainability and youth empowerment. “Our workforce programs operate with the speed and agility that is demanded by our business partners so they can be market-leaders, grow and compete.,” she adds, referring to the “just-in-time” training that helps local organisations equip young people with the skills businesses need immediately. This flexible, demand-driven approach ensures that youth are well-positioned to meet labour market needs, fostering local economic growth while addressing global challenges.

“We work with clients around the world to integrate evidence-based approaches into all our projects, ensuring that we create lasting change,” Vickland explains. “With our continued focus on partnerships, innovation, and long-term sustainability, we’re playing a critical role in shaping a green, inclusive future for youth around the world.”