Benjamin Van Bunderen Robberechts is a 17-year-old climate and children’s rights activist from Belgium who has made an impact far beyond his years. At just 14, he founded Climate Justice for Rosa, a campaign aimed at reshaping how the world views the climate crisis—not as a distant concern, but as an urgent, life-or-death issue. His journey into activism began even earlier, at age 11, when he joined school climate strikes, realizing that young people could be powerful advocates for a sustainable future.

The catalyst for Ben’s intensified activism was a personal tragedy when his friend Rosa drowned in the catastrophic floods that devastated Western Europe in the summer of 2021, 220 people where killed. This tragedy that he will carry with him for the rest of his life solidified his resolve to prevent further loss of life due to climate negligence. Ben's work with Climate Justice for Rosa is driven by a deep commitment to making the climate crisis more than just statistics; it’s about real people like Rosa, whose lives and stories demand attention and action.

Ben's influence extends beyond grassroots activism; he has become a prominent voice on the global stage, delivering impactful speeches at major events such as COP27 and COP28, and addressing the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child. His ability to connect personal tragedy with global environmental issues has earned him the nickname "climate diplomat." His talent for fostering dialogue and building bridges between various stakeholders has been pivotal in his efforts to drive meaningful change.

Ben is frequently invited to speak at events by organizations, schools, and companies to highlight the importance of climate action. His articulate and passionate advocacy has made him a sought-after speaker, influencing audiences across different sectors. In addition to his public speaking, Ben has engaged extensively with the media, appearing on TV shows, news programs, interviews, and podcasts, where he continues to raise awareness about the urgent need for climate action.

In addition to his advocacy work, Ben has contributed to the public discourse on climate issues through opinion pieces in national newspapers, further broadening his reach. He serves as a EU Climate Pact Ambassador and a climate advisor for the Child Rights International Network, ensuring that children’s voices are central to the global conversation on climate action. One of his notable achievements includes advocating for the EU and Belgian Day for the Victims of the Global Climate Crisis, July 15 will be dedicated to honoring those who have lost their lives to climate-related disasters.

Beyond his advocacy, Ben is actively involved in climate litigation, participating as a plaintiff in the Total Criminal climate case, which seeks to hold one of the world’s largest polluters accountable for prioritizing profits over the planet. Despite his demanding schedule, Ben remains a typical teenager. However, his commitment to ensuring that stories like Rosa’s are not forgotten drives him forward, with no intention of stopping until significant, courageous decisions are made to secure a sustainable future for all.