Suriname’s Oclaya Verwey, a YLAI (Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative) Fellow, recently participated in the U.S. Department of State’s Closing Forum. During the event, Verwey had the opportunity to connect with Kerri Hannan, the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Security.
Hannan expressed interest in Verwey’s experience within the YLAI program and her ongoing environmental work in Suriname. The discussion focused on Verwey’s efforts to promote eco-conscious practices within communities. Topics included creating circular economies, promoting sustainable water use and wastewater management, and tackling climate change.
This forum provided a valuable platform for Verwey to share her expertise and connect with other young leaders passionate about environmental issues in the Americas.