04 Feb Showing up with curiosity and purpose: Sneha’s Journey from Wedu’s ITL to COP29

Sneha, from Nepal, is a dedicated advocate for climate action and community resilience. Her journey gained momentum when she joined Wedu’s Introduction to Leadership (ITL) course, where she honed her skills in fostering collective climate action. Equipped with these tools, Sneha represented Nepal’s Prakriti Resources Centre at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, providing a platform to share  her nation’s experiences with climate-induced loss and damage and advocating for equitable climate finance solutions.

In her work, Sneha emphasises the power of participatory approaches and collaboration, channelling her leadership training to address one of the world’s most pressing challenges: the climate crisis.

Read Sneha’s reflections below as she shares how Wedu’s leadership program supported her to drive meaningful change in climate advocacy and beyond.

In November 2024, I had the privilege of attending COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, as a first-time delegate. This transformative experience was made possible by the foundation I built through Wedu’s Introduction to Leadership (ITL) course. My participation at COP29 allowed me to contribute Nepal’s perspective on loss and damage, advocate for equitable climate finance, and deepen my commitment to combating the climate crisis on a global stage.

Finding My Footing in Climate Diplomacy

COP29, held at the expansive Baku Football Stadium, was both overwhelming and exhilarating. The event’s zones—the Blue Zone for official negotiations and the Green Zone for public engagement—buzzed with activity. As a first-timer, navigating the venue and keeping up with the whirlwind of sessions, pavilions, and side events was a challenge, but one I eagerly embraced.

I prioritized attending sessions on Loss and Damage and the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) on Climate Finance, areas where Nepal’s vulnerabilities and challenges are deeply felt. One of the most inspiring sessions I attended was on financial innovations for locally-led adaptation at the Resilience Hub. It reinforced my belief in the power of grassroots participation and governance to address global challenges.

Blending Seriousness and Energy

What struck me most about COP29 was its dual nature—a balance of solemn negotiations and vibrant activism. On the quieter side, delegates worked tirelessly to establish agreements like the 10-year Gender Action Plan under the Lima Work Programme on Gender. Witnessing these discussions underscored the complexities of global climate diplomacy and the importance of persistent advocacy.

On the more dynamic side, the pavilions were a hub of creativity and connection. From presenting Nepal’s experiences on loss and damage at the ShareHub Pavilion to engaging with like-minded individuals from across the world, the energy was infectious. Informal conversations and spontaneous connections became some of the most meaningful moments of the event.

Applying Leadership Lessons in Action

The lessons I gained from Wedu’s Introduction to Leadership course were instrumental throughout COP29. The course emphasized the importance of showing up, focusing on collective success, and maintaining resilience—qualities that served me well during the intense two weeks. I approached each session and conversation with curiosity and purpose, determined to make the most of this incredible opportunity.

The Introduction to Leadership course emphasised the importance of showing up, focusing on collective success, and maintaining resilience. 

One of the most impactful activities of the ITL was writing a letter to my future self. This encouraged me to think deeply about what I want to become and the steps I need to take to grow into that person. The introspection led me to recognize the importance of self-improvement and the role it can play in leadership.

The course felt like a dialogue with myself, offering me rare moments to pause and reflect on my inner thoughts. Since completing the programme I have committed to improving myself through research work in my professional field and making small meaningful changes in my personal life.

While the outcomes of COP29 left much to be desired, such as the insufficient commitment of $300 billion annually under the NCQG, the event highlighted the urgency of climate finance and the need for continued advocacy. Nepal’s unique challenges, particularly regarding loss and damage, remain a critical area for global attention.

What Wedu has given me extends beyond leadership training—it has instilled in me a sense of purpose and a belief in the power of community. As I reflect on my COP29 experience, I am more committed than ever to driving meaningful change, both within Nepal and on the global stage.

To first-time COP attendees, I say this: Dive in wholeheartedly, learn from every moment, and use your voice to amplify the stories that matter. Together, we can build a future that prioritizes equity, resilience, and sustainability.