Islands Leading for Change

​Islands Leading for Change

​Join ODI Global's Resilient and Sustainable Islands Initiative (RESI) and the Global Philanthropy Forum during Climate Week NYC for Islands Leading for Change, an evening of film and conversation exploring how island nations are shaping the global climate agenda.

​The evening will feature a conversation with Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley and former President of Ireland Mary Robinson on the role of small powers and island nations in advancing climate action and shaping global responses to a changing world.

​We will also screen Climate Blueprint: Vanuatu, a film by Sarah Howard and Emily Wilkinson, followed by a conversation with Vanuatu’s Minister for Climate Change Ralph Regenvanu.

​The film is produced by Merk Films and Twenty Twenty Studios and is part of a documentary series exploring how small island states are confronting the realities of climate change while advancing ideas, approaches, and precedents with implications far beyond their shores.

​Together, we’ll explore what the world can learn from island nations that are punching above their weight in the global climate conversation—and what comes next for climate action and international cooperation.

​Event Details

​Wednesday, September 23, 2026
Doors: 6:30 PM
Program: 7:00 PM
Reception: Following the program

​School of Visual Arts
133 West 21st Street, Room 101C
New York, NY

​Drinks and light bites will be served following the program.

​Space is limited, and attendance is by approval. Please RSVP to request a place, and we’ll follow up with confirmation. We look forward to welcoming you.