Can Innocence Be the Key to Climate Action? | Ruby Rodgers | TEDxSydney

Tue Jun 3, 2025

What if the very qualities adults dismiss - youth, innocence, idealism - are exactly what the world needs to fight climate change? In this powerful and heartfelt talk, 15-year-old climate advocate, musician, and songwriter Ruby Rodgers challenges the idea that young people are too naive to lead. Instead, she argues that her youth is a superpower - a source of fresh ideas, unshakable hope, and fearless action. Ruby Rodgers is ready to take the world by storm, and she’s still only 15 years old. Singer, Songwriter, Musician, Climate Change Warrior, Student, Leader – it’s only just the start for this talented and dedicated young woman. When you’re from a big musical family and spend your life surrounded by musicians, it’s so entrenched in your DNA that making music is almost as important as breathing. Her debut single, Hits the Heart was released through EMI Australia / Universal Music in December 2024. Ruby was recently invited to be one of only eight schoolchildren from around the globe to take part in Damon Gameau’s documentary film, Future Council. Future Council gathered a host of inspiring young minds who each brought their own personal experiences and “superpowers” to the table (Ruby’s superpower was as a songwriter / poet / storyteller). They travel across Europe spending time in nature, learning about eco solutions, sharing their concerns and fears for the future, and confronting multinational mega-polluters. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

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