The People behind Climate Justice for Rosa vzw
The Climate Justice for Rosa campaign was launched by Benjamin Van Bunderen Robberechts shortly after Rosa's death, when he was just 14 years old. He quickly garnered the support of Rosa's friends and family. After about two years of activism, it became clear that legally formalizing the organization was necessary to amplify its impact.
Over the years, many individuals with diverse expertise have contributed to the campaign in a variety of ways.
The board of our non-profit consists of individuals authorized by Rosa's family to represent Climate Justice for Rosa vzw.
Board
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Benjamin Van Bunderen Robberechts *
FOUNDER
Climate and Children’s Rights Activist
(*legally represented by his mother until his 18th birthday)
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Stef Craps
CHAIR
Professor of English Literature at Ghent University
Professor Stef Craps specializes in the cultural dimensions of climate change, as well as ecological mourning and memorialization. Over the past few years, Stef has served as a mentor and advisor to Ben, offering guidance on framing the Climate Justice for Rosa campaign's messaging, inspiring and supporting its actions, and acting as a sounding board and sparring partner. Stef's expertise in the environmental humanities and memory and trauma studies has played a vital role in deepening the campaign's focus on memory activism.
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Alec Van Vaerenbergh
SECRETARY
Energy and ESG Lawyer, Partner at DLA Piper
Alec Van Vaerenbergh’s extensive expertise in energy regulations, renewable energy projects, and international law has been instrumental in strengthening the Climate Justice for Rosa campaign and empowering young voices demanding systemic change. As a steadfast advocate for equitable climate solutions, Alec uses his expertise in energy and environmental law to assist the negotiation teams of small island states during COPs, his law firm offering his services entirely pro bono. Ben first met Alec at COP27 and was immediately inspired by his commitment to ensuring vulnerable nations are heard.
Scientific Advisor
Wim Thiery
Climate Scientist at VUB, myclimatefuture.info
Professor Wim Thiery, a leading authority in climate science, plays a pivotal role in the Climate Justice for Rosa campaign. His expertise ensures the accuracy and reliability of the scientific data underpinning the campaign’s efforts. Beyond his groundbreaking research on the impact of the climate crisis on extreme weather events, Wim is a passionate advocate for young climate activists, firmly believing they are key drivers of meaningful change. As a scientist who works extensively with numbers and statistics, he underscores the vital need to remember that these figures represent real lives and communities, inspiring his peers to adopt the same perspective.
Friends and Allies
The Climate Justice for Rosa campaign has been profoundly shaped by the contributions of extraordinary individuals who share our vision for a just and sustainable future. These allies have gone beyond words, offering their time, talents, and resources to advance our cause. From opening doors at international summits to creating art that touches hearts, their efforts remind us that meaningful change is only possible when we come together. Here, we honour their support by highlighting the unique and impactful ways they have contributed to our mission.
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Former Executive Vice President of the European Commission for a Europe Fit for the Digital Age and European Commissioner for Competition, Denmark
Margrethe Vestager has been a steadfast supporter of Climate Justice for Rosa since the campaign’s inception. A fierce advocate for establishing the EU Day for the Victims of the Global Climate Crisis, she delivered a powerful speech in the European Parliament in June 2023, urging all members to vote for this vital day of commemoration. Margrethe continues to inspire us with her unwavering encouragement and words of motivation.
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Journalist, Documentary Filmmaker, Advocate for Human Rights and Environmental Justice, Member of the Club of Rome, Belgium
In 2022, Princess Esmeralda invited Ben to her home after learning about the campaign. Moved by his dedication, she arranged for Ben to attend COP27, ensuring he had everything he needed. Since then, their friendship has deepened, and they work closely together on climate and environmental initiatives.
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South African Human Rights and Environmental Activist, Former Head of Greenpeace and Amnesty International, President of the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty Initiative, South Africa
Kumi Naidoo’s student activism against apartheid inspired Ben at age 12 when he attended one of Kumi’s talks in Brussels. This pivotal moment convinced Ben that young people could change the world. Following Rosa’s tragic death, Ben reached out to Kumi for support, and Kumi was the first to respond. He offered invaluable advice, encouragement, and connections, introducing Ben to key allies such as Princess Esmeralda. Kumi has remained a mentor and unwavering supporter of the campaign.
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Award-Winning Author and Archaeologist, Belgium
David Van Reybrouck became involved with Climate Justice for Rosa in 2022 after Ben reached out to him about Rain Requiem, a tribute to the victims of the 2021 floods. Since then, David has actively supported the campaign, joining climate marches with Climate Justice for Rosa and mentoring Ben from the early days. He has provided invaluable guidance on media strategy, offered book recommendations, and delivered consistent encouragement. David also graciously spoke at the first official EU and Belgian ceremony honouring the victims of the global climate crisis..
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Former Executive Vice President of the European Commission and Architect of the European Green Deal, the Netherlands
Frans Timmermans was the first policymaker to meet with Ben about the campaign, just months after the devastating floods of 2021. Deeply moved by the proposal for an EU Day for the Victims of the Global Climate Crisis, Frans and his team drafted the resolution and led the lobbying efforts for its adoption. He also urged the Belgian federal government to establish a similar day at the national level. Beyond this, Frans regularly invited Ben to key events and, alongside his team, offered invaluable guidance and support.
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Founder and Director of Friendship NGO, Member of the Club of Rome, Bangladesh
Runa Khan first learned about Climate Justice for Rosa through Princess Esmeralda. She and her team generously shared insights into the devastating impacts of climate change in Bangladesh, facilitating connections between Ben and Bangladeshi youth. Their powerful stories moved him, reinforcing the urgent need to amplify the voices of frontline communities most affected by the climate crisis.
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Jazz and Classical Pianist and Composer, Belgium
Jef Neve composed the evocative score for Rain Requiem and has supported Climate Justice for Rosa from the very beginning. He kindly allowed the campaign to use his music in For Rosa, enhancing the production’s emotional impact and resonance.
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Film and Theatre Maker, Writer, and Climate Activist, Belgium
Nic Balthazar has been a mentor and collaborator to Ben since 2022. Together, they created For Rosa, blending Nic’s storytelling expertise with Ben’s lived experiences. Nic has also helped Ben navigate challenges such as handling social media backlash.