The theme for the 2026 Climate Summit hosted by the Michigan Climate Action Network (MiCAN) was Collective Courage—and wow, did it deliver! Kicking off with surprise guest speaker Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel left the room feeling inspired, and people were ready to take on the day and the fights ahead.
In a world where so much feels uncertain, one thing becomes clear every time I’m in a room with people who care about the climate future and are actively shaping it. We are on the right side of history, the right side of environmental science, and the right side of justice, and together we can bring about the world we and all future Earth deserves.
What struck me most was the energy in the room—a space filled with individuals at every stage of life. Some had decades of experience in the field, while others were preparing to speak their first words into the conversation. However, despite the age differences, the shared determination was undeniable.
One panel that stood out to me was “Youth Pathways to Climate Action.” The young leaders in that room were simply inspiring. Imagine being a high school freshman and not only speaking on a panel at a major climate conference, but also demonstrating a deep commitment to the future. The young people here didn’t just say the things; they are doing the work by creating or joining climate clubs at their schools. These students are our future leaders, and they’re doing the work to make Earth a better place.
As someone in my (almost) mid-20s, I’ve heard the familiar statements from older generations: “You are the future,” or “It’s up to your generation to fix things.” While these words come from a place of good intention, they can sometimes feel like a weight rather than a call to action. What made the Climate Summit so refreshing was seeing high school students and seasoned leaders in the same room—collaborating, sharing ideas, and working together to create change.
Because after all, it takes collective courage to make a difference. Not one generation. Not one demographic. But all of us, united in our hope for a better tomorrow.
Also, sending a huge thank-you to our good friends at MiCAN. We were honored to be invited to the planning committee, and I was especially honored to serve as a panelist in one of the sessions. And thanks, of course, to all who showed up to share in the optimistic ideas and energy.
Onward to a better and brighter future, 
Lyla Hollis
Clean Energy Specialist
Lyla Hollis, Groundwork Clean Energy Specialist
lyla.hollis@groundworkcenter.org
