# Application for Fellowship ([Adopt a Negotiator](https://web.archive.org/web/20140626155501/http://adoptanegotiator.org/))

Application for AaN Fellowship, 22 August 2012

Dear ██████ and ████████,

I am writing to apply for an Adopt a Negotiator (AaN) Fellowship. As a knowledgeable and skilled student with a passion for the environment. I would relish this unique opportunity to develop a relationship with a negotiator and lobby them to deliver strong outcomes at the upcoming round of UNFCCC negotiations.

Australia’s role in climate negotiations has always been as a mid-power facilitator. We have never been a leader and have been reluctant to be more vocal, even as our region undergoes dramatic social and economic changes that put us at risk of getting left behind. I will use my Fellowship to lobby Australia’s negotiators to take a more principled stance, offer more compromise in terms of international agreement, and begin to lead the Asia-Pacific region.

I believe that I am an ideal candidate for participation in AaN and outline my skills and capabilities below.

Kind regards,

Knowledge and Understanding I have a longstanding interest in climate change and have developed a strong scientific understanding over many years. I have studied a range of relevant courses throughout university which have provided me with an in-depth knowledge of international climate politics. These include International Climate Law, Climate Change Law and Policy, Renewable Energy Law, Environmental Law in Developing Countries and International Law.

Communication I am an avid user of social media, keeping my own blog and using services such as Twitter. During the Rio+20 Conference I blogged and tweeted extensively on current progress. My PhD topic and I regularly have to deliver simplified communications, including recently publishing an article in Australia’s largest renewable energy magazine. I am able to communicate effectively with all audiences, and have published a range of articles in peer-reviewed academic journals.

Empathy I am highly knowledgeable about climate impacts in different parts of the world, and have a qualification in counselling which has instilled in me an excellent ability to empathise with others. Being able to see issues from another’s perspective allows me to understand how localised climate impacts affect people on the ground. As a traveller and a lover of people and languages, I care deeply about the effects climate change has on people and am ready to convert that passion into creative lobbying.

Bravery During my PhD I have developed excellent networking skills: I thoroughly enjoy approaching and meeting people, and developing meaningful and lasting relationships within a short window of opportunity. I am confident and have no problem taking a principled stand. I have been an activist throughout my adult life and I am comfortable with getting my message into the public domain, be it through blogging, protesting, or any other means available. At a recent Rio+20 follow-up meeting, I entered into a heated debate with a government official, but remained calm and eloquent at all times, and managed to make my voice heard.

Speed I am always switched on and will not miss anything that takes place during negotiations. I will use social media and my connections with other activists, youth group members and negotiators to stay abreast of developments at all times: this will ensure that I can respond swiftly as the negotiations progress.

Dedication I have dedicated both my personal and professional lives to making a difference to the environment that my generation, and future generations, will inhabit. I am dedicated to this cause and will continue to press for change, regardless of the challenges faced along the way.