Saint Lucian environmental advocate Genesis Alfred has been appointed as the Caribbean representative on the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) Youth Council for the 2026–2028 term.
The 27-year-old’s appointment provides a platform to advance youth engagement in renewable energy and bring Caribbean perspectives to global discussions on the energy transition.
Alfred is the programme manager for the Caribbean Climate Justice Project (CCJP)-Youth Innovators for Renewable and Inclusive Energy (Youth IRIE), a regional initiative that addresses the effects of climate change on young people and vulnerable populations.
Appointed to that role in 2025, she leads the initiative’s work across the Caribbean, focusing on climate justice, sustainable energy, capacity building and youth-led solutions to environmental challenges.
Through her work, CCJP-Youth IRIE seeks to amplify young people’s voices in advocating for an accelerated and just transition to renewable energy.
The IRENA Youth Council brings together youth leaders, young policymakers, entrepreneurs and energy specialists from around the world to strengthen youth participation in the global energy transition. It focuses on developing practical strategies to support youth-led solutions, expand energy access and accelerate the deployment of renewable energy worldwide.
Members of the council’s 2026–2028 cohort were selected through a competitive global process, with consideration given to geographical and gender balance.
Alfred holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Science and Ecology from the University of the West Indies (UWI), Cave Hill Campus. She is pursuing a master’s degree in Natural Resources and Environmental Management at the university’s Centre for Resource Management and Environmental Studies (CERMES).
