Most Australians are encouraged to “think globally and act locally”, but Brisbane resident Elissa Jenkins will be doing the opposite next week when she attends the Global Young Greens Conference in Nairobi, Kenya.

Held from January 16-19, 130 young people from all over the world will be attending the founding congress of the Global Young Greens.

Partly funded by the Australian Greens, Elissa – aged 30 – will journey to Nairobi to represent Australia’s youth as an official delegate of the Australian Greens.

Elissa, who is also Social Justice Spokesperson for the Queensland Greens and has run three times for public office in the last three years said the Conference was to be action-oriented.

“Our aim is to coordinate our work on important global issues and strengthen Green politics internationally.

“Unlike other Australian political parties, The Greens have a strong global focus and international camaraderie with like-minded organisations.

“Kenya is going to be amazing as young people aged from 16-35 from different cultures converge together to share accommodation, meals and discussion.

“I am to meet fellow Greens from African nations, European countries, USA, Sri-Lanka, Indonesia, Germany, Czech Republic – just to name a few.

“We’ll be discussing environmental and human rights issues – it’s going to be incredible.”

“These young people are passionate about helping to make the world a better place.

“I will not only be taking the voice of Australia’s young people to the world, but I will be bringing back stories to share with local residents,” she said.

While in Nairobi, Elissa will also attend the World Social Forum which attracts 100,000 visitors.

To view updates on Elissa’s journey visit her weblog at www.elissa.info.

For media information while Elissa’s away e-mail elissa@elissa.info or send a text message to 0418 786 986.