Digital storytelling has the power to transform climate negotiations into meaningful action, said Ishika Bhardwaj, a second-year BAJMC student at Haridev Joshi University of Journalism and Mass Communication, Jaipur, Rajasthan.
Speaking at the 2nd Yuva Sustainability Conference (Online) titled “Beyond COP30: Empowering Youth for Climate Action”, Ishika emphasised that while global summits set the climate agenda, it is compelling storytelling that mobilises people. “COP30 sets the agenda, but stories move people. When youth use reels, blogs, podcasts, and digital campaigns to turn climate data into human stories, negotiations become action,” she said.
Ishika highlighted the growing influence of digital platforms in shaping public understanding of climate change. She noted that social media and online content enable young communicators to amplify local climate heroes, inspire sustainable everyday practices, and accelerate climate action far beyond conference halls. “Our digital screens can become tools for change,” she added, underscoring the responsibility that comes with digital reach.
The conference was organised on 13 December 2025 for the Yuva Sustainability Internship Programme by Voices of Bharat: Yuva for Sustainability, a Sustainability Karma initiative, with Lok Samvad Sansthan as the implementation partner, in association with the Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Jamia Millia Islamia.