Estevan Nicholas Marin Quintero serves as the Coordinator of the Colombia Youth Biodiversity Network.

As the national chapter of the Global Youth Biodiversity Network in Colombia and a coordination platform for youth participation in negotiations under the UN Convention on Biological Diversity, the Colombia Youth Biodiversity Network aims to mobilize young Colombians for biodiversity conservation and policy advocacy, and integrate youth perspectives into national biodiversity plans. Its work unfolds through youth summits, on-the-ground action delivery and regional cooperation. It has mobilized 60 youth and environmental organizations, trained over 600 youth leaders, carried out 56 initiatives, and directly reached 1,200 people. It has also secured inclusion in Colombia’s National Biodiversity Plan.

Within the project, Estevan is committed to grassroots youth mobilization, unlocking young people’s potential to advance global development initiatives. He spearheaded the organization of summits for the Colombia Youth Biodiversity Network, supported the establishment of regional partnerships and exchange programmes with youth networks in Panama and Chile, and coordinated cross-national advocacy efforts.

Estevan noted: “Empowered by Action Plan for Global Youth Development(APGYD), I have gained leadership and advocacy experience and strengthened networks across Colombia and with regional peers in Panama and Chile. APGYD gave me hands-on experience to develop skills in advocacy, stakeholder engagement, and youth well-being. I also learned to apply innovative working methods, social entrepreneurship, and equitable and inclusive education approaches.”