From 24–26 June 2026, the Rainforest Youth Summit welcomed hundreds of young people, Indigenous leaders, knowledge holders, scientists, creatives, and changemakers to Kuching, Sarawak for three inspiring days of learning, dialogue, and collaboration.
Together, we explored new perspectives, shared knowledge, forged meaningful connections, and reaffirmed our collective responsibility to protect our planet and celebrate the diverse cultures and communities that shape it. Guided by many ways of knowing, and grounded in the unique landscapes of Borneo, RAYS 2026 demonstrated the power of bringing people together to imagine and create more just, resilient, and sustainable futures.
Thank you to every delegate, speaker, partner, volunteer, and supporter who made this year's summit possible. Your ideas, energy, and commitment continue to shape the growing RAYS community. We look forward to welcoming you back to Kuching for RAYS 2027.
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Our mission is to support young people in understanding their role as stewards of land, culture, and community.
We do this by creating grounded spaces where youth, Indigenous knowledge holders, and practitioners can learn, connect, and shape practical solutions for climate and biodiversity challenges.
Our diverse lineup of speakers include sustainability advocates, environmental & climate justice activists, indigenous representatives, youth innovators and subject matter experts. With a broad range of expertise, they offer a strong take home message to empower youth with the tools, knowledge and courage to deliver change.
RAYS 2026 is shaped by three key thematic areas that anchor our conversations and learning environment - helping ensure we remain grounded in place, people and purpose:
Become part of the first cohort of our brand new fellowship programme, building on our summit theme: Youth: Many Ways, One Planet.
Over the past three years we have created a space where young people come together to understand their role as stewards of land, culture, and community. The fellowship builds on this by moving from a moment of connection into a sustained process of growth and practice. By joining, you will be part of a 12-month leadership incubator where you can take what started at RAYS and begin to shape it into something of your own.
Our partnerships are driven by shared purpose: to nurture thoughtful, informed, and connected youth who can contribute meaningfully to their communities and the world around them.
Support youth participation and help create a welcoming space where young people can learn, connect, and explore practical solutions for their communities and environments.
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Work with us to co-create meaningful learning experiences for young people through many ways: contributing knowledge, content, academic insight, or facilitation support — helping shape a summit that is grounded, inclusive, and enriching for all.
Find out moreBy registering for, and joining us at the Rainforest Youth Summit, you agree to abide by the RAYS Code of Conduct.
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We respectfully acknowledge that this summit takes place on the ancestral lands of the Indigenous peoples of Sarawak, including the Iban, Bidayuh, Orang Ulu, and Malay communities. We honour their enduring connection to this land, their cultures, and their traditions, and recognise their continued contributions to the richness of Sarawak's heritage.
