Xiye Bastida

Xiye Bastida is one of the world’s leading young climate activists. An inspirational figure in the climate movement, Xiye is known for her inclusive approach that seeks to engage all parts of the society on the challenges ahead.

In 2015, Xiye left Mexico to move to New York City with her parents. That same year, unprecented rainfall and flooding in her hometown of San Pedro Tultepec made Xiye think more deeply about climate change. It was no longer a distant issue affecting ice caps in the Poles but something immediate and real. Xiye attended her first UN climate conference 18 months later, winning the Spirit of the UN award for her contributions on indigeneous knowledge. A member of the Otomi-Toltec community, Xiye passionately believes indigenous people have valuable insights on working in harmony with nature.

Xiye later became one of the lead organisers of Fridays for Future NYC, the student strikes started by Greta Thunberg. Her ability to mobilise action was evident as she brought 300,000 people onto the streets of New York City.

Favouring a collaborative approach, Xiye co-founded the Re-Earth Initiative in 2020. The non-profit fights for marginalised communities but also recognises the importance of bringing everyone on this journey. Xiye follows this strategy when she engages with heads of state or business leaders. She does not lecture or chide but seeks to open a dialogue. Xiye understands the energy transition is not straightforward and requires some pragmatism.

Xiye Bastida has been widely featured in international media, including the New York Times, BBC and Vogue. She has spoken alongisde Leonardo DiCaprio, Al Gore, Jane Goodall and Malala. Xiye is in her final year at the University of Pennsylvania where she is studying Environmental Sciences with a concentration in Policy.