A young graduate from Somerset has made the South West region proud after delivering speeches at the United Nations this summer. Shakira Saunders, born in Shepton Mallet, was invited to participate in important discussions on climate change at the UN headquarters in New York this July.
Now 22, Shakira first developed an interest in policymaking while studying at De Montfort University in Leicester. The university, which boasts its own United Nations Hub, advertised an internship opportunity focused on sustainable development. To her surprise, Shakira secured the internship and made her debut speech to the UN at just 21 years old.
Addressing an audience of around 70 people, she spoke about her journey as a young changemaker: “I was absolutely terrified! I typically dislike public speaking, so I had to really step out of my comfort zone. I was the youngest speaker there that day, which felt like a real achievement in itself.”
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During the internship, Shakira contributed to several projects, including ‘Football for the Goals’, an initiative aimed at helping football teams become carbon neutral.
She graduated last August with a first-class degree in law and, this spring, received a personal invitation from the UN to take part in further discussions in New York. The Global Higher Education Symposium 2026 featured the launch of a UN statement highlighting the role of universities in combating climate change. On Monday, 13 July, Shakira travelled again to New York to deliver a speech at the UN headquarters.
Shakira hopes to see more young voices included in climate decision-making: “We need more young people in the room, especially since these decisions impact us disproportionately.”
Despite her impressive achievements speaking at the UN twice already, Shakira is only just beginning her journey. She is set to start a master’s degree in social and public policymaking at Cardiff University this September, has recently purchased her first home, and got engaged to her fiancé.
Reflecting on the recent heatwaves, widespread drought, and devastating wildfires across Europe, Shakira admits to feeling mixed emotions about the future of our planet.
“When I attend the UN, I meet so many inspirational people and have stimulating conversations-the atmosphere is so positive. But then I check the news and see the enormity of the challenges we face. The issues feel overwhelming.”
She adds, “I feel a lot of pressure, which is quite ironic. Why am I, a 22-year-old, feeling such pressure when there are billionaires who could solve world hunger yet still hold vast wealth?”
Nevertheless, Shakira remains committed to fighting for our planet, determined to make a difference amid an increasingly uncertain future.