Lauren Aspoas: Nature action and intergeneration voices
*The views expressed by this Rangatahi member are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or positions of the organisation(s) they represent.
Lauren Aspoas: Policy Advisor, Ministry for the Environment
In a conversation that blends passion, realism and hope, Lauren Aspoas, one of our new Rangatahi Advisory Panel (RAP) shares her rationale for involvement and her thoughts on the crucial role intergenerational voices play in shaping the future of our planet.
“I’ve been following the RAP for a couple of years now,” she says as part of her interest in climate policy and youth involvement. “So, when I saw the opportunity through the Ministry for the Environment to join the RAP, I jumped on it.”
Lauren has worked at the Ministry for the Environment as a policy analyst for nearly two years and says a key attraction to joining the RAP was the chance to be part of a platform where she could use her voice and share her perspective as a young person to make a tangible difference to New Zealand’s environment and future.
“Young people are often overlooked in important conversations around sustainability,” she says, emphasising that the value youth bring to these discussions is often dismissed simply because of their age.
“But in reality, that’s exactly why we should be heard. We’re going to inherit the world and the consequences of today’s decisions. So, I think it’s essential for young people to have a say in these decisions.”
For Lauren, the RAP is one of the few places where youth voices are amplified, and their ideas can contribute meaningfully to the broader environment conversation. The other motivating factor in joining was her desire to connect with like-minded individuals.
“New Zealand is quite small, and the sustainability circles are even smaller,” she says. “I wanted to meet and collaborate with the people who are going to be the future leaders in this space.”
Whether it was through law school at The University of Auckland, or other avenues, Lauren has sought out connections to foster collective growth and advocacy. The RAP, she believes, offers an invaluable opportunity to connect with other young people from both the public and private sectors, all committed to climate action and sustainability.
“I’m excited to work with people who’ve been in the climate policy space for much longer than I have,” she shares. “They’ve remained optimistic and continue working because they want to leave the world in a better place for the future. Their dedication motivates me to do more and keep pushing forward.”
Lauren says a sense of optimism is crucial to sustaining the momentum for change, despite the overwhelming challenges posed by climate change.
Another powerful source of inspiration is wahine Māori in New Zealand’s Parliament. She says figures like Tamatha Paul and Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke serve as role models, demonstrating the impact of young leaders using their voices to advocate for meaningful change. “Even just seeing TikTok clips of them in Parliament, I feel a sense of hope and empowerment. They highlight the issues that matter to them and show what can be accomplished when you stand up for what’s right.”
The presence of these influential figures provides a sense of reassurance that change is not only possible but happening. “It feels like something is shifting, and that’s such a positive sign,” Lauren adds. “It’s proof that the work being done now is making a difference, and I’m excited to be part of that change with my fellow RAP.”