Leslie Anne Lopez YASIS, a year 2 PhD candidate studying Environmental Science, Policy, and Management (ESPM), went to Singapore on 17-20 January, 2023, to attend the Global Young Scientist Summit (GYSS) 2023, which brought together about 350 young scientists from around the world. Leslie's participation in the summit was motivated by her desire to develop her science communication skills and expand her network of researchers and scientists, particularly those working on environmental issues.

Over the 4-day programme, participants interacted with eminent scientists and peers for conversations on science and research and solutions to global challenges. It featured 21 Nobel laureates and eminent scientists who spoke across ten plenaries and panel sessions.

The summit offered Leslie valuable insights into the importance of scientists in the fight against disinformation and the need for scientists to communicate their research to the public effectively. She learned that gatekeeping studies that can affect public health are critical, and researchers must be creative in making science accessible and engaging for everyone.

Leslie also recognized the importance of providing more opportunities and visibility to researchers from developing countries, as they can better study and create solutions for the challenges they experience in their own geographies.

Leslie is eager to continue engaging with other scientists to create conversations about pressing issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental disasters. She would like to thank the HKUST Interdisciplinary Programs Office for supporting and nominating her to participate in the summit and she is looking forward to more opportunities to engage with other scientists and learn from them.