Empowering the Next Generation of Environmental Leaders: U of A Students Awarded Prestigious Climate Finance Fellowship

In a remarkable achievement, two students from the University of Arkansas have been selected for the highly competitive Campus Climate Network's Climate Finance Fellowship. Helana Alexander and Amelia Southern-Uribe are among only 20 fellows chosen nationwide, a testament to their dedication and passion for environmental justice.

Unlocking Opportunities for Sustainable Change

Securing Funding for Impactful Initiatives

The Climate Finance Fellowship provides a ,500 stipend and an all-expenses-paid trip to Philadelphia for an in-person retreat from August 2-5, 2024. This prestigious program empowers the selected fellows to organize for environmental justice on their respective campuses. Helana Alexander and Amelia Southern-Uribe's projects will focus on improving Arkansas' communities through education and policy, leveraging systemic financial commitments to drive meaningful change.

Building a Powerful Network

The fellowship not only offers financial support but also invaluable networking opportunities. Alexander, a junior majoring in communications and co-president of Zero Hour Arkansas, expressed her excitement about the prospect of collaborating with a diverse group of national and international individuals. "This opportunity will help me learn how to effectively market campaigns and educate the public, especially on a college campus," she said, underscoring the program's potential to amplify the impact of her environmental justice initiatives.

Empowering Student Leaders

Amelia Southern-Uribe, a senior pursuing degrees in advertising/public relations and political science, is the founder and president of Zero Hour Arkansas and the director of southeastern chapters for This is Zero Hour National. Her campus initiatives have already led to the diversion of over 238,000 pounds of waste, the distribution of 500 menstrual cups, and the provision of 450 free environmental education zines for students in Arkansas. The Climate Finance Fellowship will further empower Southern-Uribe to expand the reach and impact of her environmental advocacy efforts.

Amplifying Diverse Voices

Zero Hour Arkansas, the organization led by Alexander and Southern-Uribe, is a climate justice community and student organization that amplifies the voices of BIPOC and other historically excluded individuals within the environmental movement. By merging science, cultural wisdom, and creativity through curriculum and interactive learning experiences, Zero Hour Arkansas aims to connect individuals with their local communities and root their environmental practices in equity and inclusion.

Fostering Sustainable Solutions

The Climate Finance Fellowship's focus on environmental justice and campus sustainability aligns perfectly with the mission and values of Zero Hour Arkansas. The program's emphasis on providing fellows with valuable skills and networking opportunities will undoubtedly empower Alexander and Southern-Uribe to further their work in these critical areas, driving meaningful change and inspiring the next generation of environmental leaders.