Last week I had the opportunity to photograph the Hope in Action Youth Summit hosted by the Jane Goodall Institute — two days filled with passionate students, inspiring speakers, and organizations working toward a more sustainable future.

The summit welcomed middle school students on day one and high school students on day two, bringing together students, educators, scientists, and nonprofits focused on conservation and sustainability. As someone with a background in environmental science and education, documenting events like this is especially meaningful to me. It sits right at the intersection of storytelling and environmental impact.

A Community of Environmental Changemakers

One of my favorite parts of the summit was seeing so many organizations from the environmental and sustainability community gathered in one place.

Because I spent years working in the environmental field before becoming a photographer, many of the people behind those booths weren’t just colleagues in the space, they’re actual friends. It was so fun to reconnect with people I’ve worked alongside over the years while watching students discover their organizations for the first time.

Students had the chance to ask questions, learn about conservation careers, and see firsthand what environmental work looks like in the real world.

Inspiring Voices

The summit also featured incredible speakers who shared their work and experiences with students.

One highlight was hearing from Jasmin Graham, founder of Minorities in Shark Sciences (MISS), whose work focuses on creating opportunities for women of color in marine science. Her talk was inspiring for students interested in science and conservation careers.

I also loved hearing from author Julie Henry, who spoke alongside her daughter about their shared passion for conservation and storytelling. I even left the event with a copy of her book — the perfect souvenir from the day.

Students Turning Hope Into Action

While the speakers were fantastic, the most inspiring part of the summit was watching students fully engage with the experience.

They asked thoughtful questions, participated in hands-on activities, and brainstormed ways they could make a difference in their schools and communities.

Programs like Roots & Shoots (a youth program of the Jane Goodall Institute) are designed to empower young people to lead change, and the Hope in Action Youth Summit felt like a powerful example of that mission in motion.

Photography for Nonprofit Events

Events like this deserve to be documented thoughtfully. For nonprofits and mission-driven organizations, strong photography helps capture the people, energy, and impact behind the work, creating visuals that support outreach, fundraising, grant reporting, and community engagement.

If your organization is planning a nonprofit conference, youth summit, environmental event, or educational program, I’d love to help document it.

Katie Murray Creative specializes in storytelling-driven photography for nonprofits, conservation organizations, and mission-focused events.

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