MSJ Students attend WildHearts Global Youth Summit
WildHearts Global Youth Summit 2025, at BNP Paribas, London: 11 November 2025
A group of Year 9 students, accompanied by Dr Jones (Head of Library & Enrichment) and Mr Fisher (Head of History & Politics) recently attended the WildHearts Global Youth Summit hosted at BNP Paribas in London, an inspiring event that brought sustainability to life through real-world business perspectives. WildHearts is an organization that collaborates with businesses to showcase the impact of sustainability initiatives.
It was a day of practical learning guided by mentors from leading companies who have incorporated sustainability into their business practices.
The summit welcomed six schools, creating a lively environment as students shared ideas, and l engaged with professionals who involved in shaping the future of sustainability in business. Professionals from Clyde & Co, Linklaters, and BNP Paribas joined us to share their expertise and insights. Our group worked closely with Oliver, a member of Clyde & Co’s sustainability team, who explained how legal firms are embedding eco-friendly practices into their operations.
The day began with an interactive workshop led by Linklaters, where students explored how businesses can introduce sustainability into their operations. They considered both the benefits and barriers to change and then worked in teams to create a one-minute pitch to a CEO advocating for sustainability. This was an excellent exercise in persuasive communication and strategic thinking.
After a moment of reflection for Remembrance, the second workshop, led by BNP Paribas, focused on sustainable finance. Students learned about sustainable bonds and sustainability-linked loans, weighing the pros and cons of different financial options. To make the experience realistic, they introduced an element of risk by rolling dice to simulate market changes and global events, just like real-world decision-making.
At lunchtime we had the chance to look at the newly installed hydroponic salad leaf growing system the result of a partnership with Square Mile Farms. The produce will be used for the onside hospitality, shared with employees and within the local community.
In the afternoon, the third workshop with Clyde & Co tackled climate justice based on the real-life case of Cannavacciuolo vs. The Government. Students stepped into the roles of lawyers, government officials, and advocates, debating and judging the case while considering diverse perspectives and evidence.
The day concluded with an Insight to Industry careers carousel, where students met and talked with professionals from BNP Paribas. This gave them a glimpse into the wide range of career paths linked to sustainability in law, finance.
This event offered students a fresh perspective on climate change and sustainability—not just as environmental issues, but as challenges and opportunities that businesses, legal systems, and financial institutions are actively addressing. It was an inspiring day that connected classroom learning to real-world impact.
