Living Lakes is proud to announce the fourth edition of the Sustainability Leadership Journey (SLJ), an international gathering that empowers young people to take action for the protection of lakes and wetlands.
Hosted by Fundación Humedales in Colombia and organised under the Living Lakes Biodiversity and Climate Project (LLBCP), this year’s Journey brings together young leaders from Latin America, Africa, Asia and Europe to exchange ideas, strengthen skills, and explore the ecological and cultural value of aquatic ecosystems.
Under the theme Sacred Lakes, the SLJ 2025 will take place across the Andean landscapes of Villa de Leyva, the Muisca Observatory, Iguaque National Park and Fúquene Lagoon. Participants between 18 and 35 years old, including students, activists and emerging professionals, will engage in a week of workshops, field experiences and intercultural dialogue connecting personal reflection with collective action.
The programme will feature experts such as Brigitte Baptiste (Colombia), Samuel Secaira and Andrea Paiz (Guatemala), Alejandro Juárez (Mexico) and Ajanta Dey (India), who will share insights on communication, empathy and leadership to inspire conscious and collaborative environmental action.
Over six days, participants will learn from the region’s rich biodiversity and from each other, building a global network of young leaders dedicated to sustainable management of lakes and wetlands.
The SLJ is part of the Living Lakes Biodiversity and Climate Project (LLBCP), coordinated by the international Living Lakes Network, the Global Nature Fund, and Fundación Humedales. It is supported by the German Federal Ministry for the Environment (BMUV) through the International Climate Initiative (IKI), and backed by Deutsche Postcode Lotterie, Kärcher, GF, and Groundlake.
Please note that travelers from certain countries need a visa and/or vaccinations to enter Colombia – check with your local consulate