Climate Activism and Education
Amina Muhammad Sani (Nigeria)
Gender: Female
Age: 26
Title & Organization: Co-founder of Nigeria Youth Climate Preservation Network
Description: Amina Muhammad Sani is a dedicated climate change activist from Nigeria. With a passion for preserving the environment, she collaborates with local, regional, and international organizations to raise awareness about the urgency of addressing climate change. Through her efforts, Amina aims to educate individuals about sustainable choices in their daily lives, advocate for climate-related policy changes, and promote renewable energy and conservation initiatives. Her mission is to inspire positive change and create a sustainable future for generations to come.
Clinton Ezeigwe (Nigeria)
Gender: Male
Age: 38
Title & Organization: Founder of Preventing Marine Plastic Pollution in Nigeria (PREMPPiN)
Description: Clinton Ezeigwe, a passionate community and human rights activist, spearheads the Preventing Marine Plastic Pollution in Nigeria (PRMPPiN) project. Through education and community empowerment, Clinton addresses plastic pollution while inspiring positive change. His after-school program empowers secondary school students to understand and combat plastic pollution, turning them into young leaders advocating for cleaner oceans and a healthier planet. By educating and energizing youth, Clinton fosters a mindset of change and empowers future generations to protect the environment.
Amb Jibrin Muhammad Binji (Nigeria)
Gender: Male
Age: 25
Title & Organization: Executive Director, Frontier for Peace and Advocate Foundation Nigeria
Description: Amb Jibrin Muhammad Binji is a dedicated community activist, health practitioner, and peace advocate based in Sokoto state, Nigeria. His multi-faceted roles include serving as the Executive Director of the Frontier for Peace and Advocate Foundation Nigeria and being part of various youth and peace-building initiatives. Amb Jibrin's impactful work spans peace promotion, youth inclusion, gender equality, healthcare, and social development, making him an influential figure in advancing positive change.
Leena Joshi (India)
Gender: Female
Age: 22
Title & Organization: Founder and Executive Director of Ethereal
Description: Leena Joshi is a dynamic social entrepreneur, climate advocate, and author who embodies impactful change. Leading "Ethereal," a youth-led nonprofit with a global footprint of 9000 volunteers across 40+ countries, she showcases her commitment to catalyzing transformative action. Leena's extensive involvement includes advisory roles, collaborations with esteemed organizations, and her contributions to research projects. Her advocacy work has earned recognition from influential institutions, and her engagements as a speaker and author amplify the message of social impact.
Joseph Adeboye (Nigeria)
Gender: Male
Age: 30
Title & Organization: Programme Manager, Cleannation Foundation
Description: Joseph Adeboye is a dedicated Community Development Practitioner who champions several UN SDGs, particularly Goals 3, 4, 7, 10, and 13. Through his role as Programme Manager at Cleannation Foundation, Joseph leads diverse initiatives ranging from cleanup campaigns and tree planting to climate advocacy and digital skills training. His commitment to creating positive impact extends to community-based disease prevention, and he has been recognized for his influential work as a climate change advocate and SDGs promoter.
Debbie Buyaki (Kenya)
Gender: Female
Age: 22
Title & Organization: Core - Lead Strategy and Policy, Youth For Ecocide Law
Description: Debbie Buyaki is a visionary activist advocating for meaningful action to address environmental challenges. Her project, "Let's Plant Trees Together," focuses on ecosystem restoration through reforestation, aligned with the UN Decade of Action and UNEP's Only One Earth campaign. With an emphasis on SDGs 4 (Quality education), 13 (Climate action), and 15 (Life on land), Debbie engages children and youth across local communities, orchestrating tree planting drives and promoting SDG education. She collaborates nationally with the Ministry of Education to integrate sustainability education into curricula, and globally coordinates international tree planting initiatives. Through her work, Debbie embodies the belief that proactive efforts, starting with the youth, can heal the planet.
Moyosola Joseph Otusanya (Nigeria)
Gender: Male
Age: 36
Title & Organization: Team Lead, Civil Alliance for Climate Action
Description: Moyosola Joseph Otusanya, a dedicated climate advocate from Nigeria, leads the "Civil Alliance for Climate Action." His multifaceted approach includes extensive tree-planting exercises, grassroots education, media outreach, and policy dialogues. By mobilizing support, facilitating actions on resilience, conducting research, and disseminating findings, Moyosola works tirelessly to drive climate consciousness, influence policies, and empower communities to address climate change effectively.
Rishadul Alam (Bangladesh)
Gender: Male
Age: 16
Title & Organization: Youth For Future
Description: Rishadul Alam, a dynamic 16-year-old climate activist from Bangladesh, is a driving force behind the Youth For Future movement. As an organizer at Fridays For Future and a youth Parliamentarian of Bangladesh Generation Parliament, he is dedicated to raising awareness about climate change. Rishadul's focus is on inspiring young people to take meaningful action for climate justice and a sustainable future. His advocacy spans national and international platforms, calling for urgent climate action and motivating youth to be active changemakers.
Ileladewa Adedamola Olasunkanmi (Nigeria)
Gender: Male
Age: 34
Title & Organization: San. Ileladewa Adedamola O. (GTBank)
Description: Ileladewa Adedamola Olasunkanmi, known as San. Ileladewa Adedamola O., is a dedicated advocate for climate change and environmental health from Nigeria. His multifaceted engagement includes policy-making, public speaking, disaster management, and infectious disease supervision. He is a passionate member of YOUNGO UNFCCC and the UNEP Chemical and Plastics Waste Platform. Through his work at GTB Bank and various platforms, he actively drives public awareness, sensitization, and capacity building on climate change and environmental health.
Kone Katienesongui (Ivory Coast)
Gender: Male
Age: 22
Title & Organization: General Secretary, Les Amis du Patrimoine
Description: Kone Katienesongui is a dedicated climate advocate from Ivory Coast, holding the position of General Secretary at "Les Amis du Patrimoine." His organization focuses on raising awareness about environmental protection and climate issues. Kone and his team work passionately to ensure a better future for upcoming generations by engaging with the community and driving discussions and actions that contribute to environmental preservation.
Osigai Walter Etepesit (Uganda)
Gender: Male
Age: 24
Title & Organization: Co-founder/Co-Director
Description: Osigai Walter Etepesit is a prominent youth leader, environmentalist, and human rights advocate from Uganda. With a wealth of experience spanning over five years, he is skilled in designing and executing programs that engage, empower, and involve young individuals in various climate-related decision-making processes. He co-founded and serves as Co-Director of Marafiki United Green Youth Initiative Uganda. Walter's commitment and dedication have earned him recognition, including a nomination for the Most Outstanding Male Champion award in climate action in Uganda. He actively contributes to global discussions on climate justice and adaptation as a member of several influential youth organizations.
Amara Nwuneli (Nigeria)
Gender: Female
Age: 16
Title & Organization: Founder, Preserve Our Roots
Description: Amara Nwuneli is the visionary founder of "Preserve Our Roots," a youth-led NGO and social activism movement based in Nigeria. Dedicated to nurturing youth activism, the organization serves as an incubation hub for fostering awareness about climate change, social disparities, and inequality. With a focus on igniting change through climate education courses, camps, an educational hub, social media engagement, advocacy efforts, and local projects, Preserve Our Roots empowers young individuals to drive meaningful transformation for a sustainable future.
Sustainable Agriculture and Food
Ruth Mwanzia (Kenya)
Gender: Female
Age: 34
Title & Organization: Director of Koola Treats
Description: Ruth Mwanzia is the visionary behind Koola Treats, a company deeply committed to sustainability. Specializing in crafting granola, wholesome snacks, and revitalizing smoothies, Ruth's focus is on promoting health and environmental well-being. By carefully selecting local and organic ingredients, Koola Treats ensures that every bite supports personal well-being while minimizing ecological impact. The company embraces eco-friendliness through its use of biodegradable and recyclable packaging materials. Ruth's dedication extends to exploring renewable energy integration in manufacturing to further reduce carbon emissions.
David Ezeonyekwere (Nigeria)
Gender: Male
Age: 22
Title & Organization: CEO of Dece Agro & Farms
Description: David Ezeonyekwere is the driving force behind Dece Agro & Farms, a startup dedicated to climate-smart agriculture. By leveraging technology and social media, David's initiative supports small-scale farmers to sell their produce profitably, combatting hunger and poverty. Dece Agro & Farms' innovative approach also promotes climate education within communities, fostering sustainable agricultural practices. Through his work, David aims to enhance food security, reduce poverty, and empower local communities, while contributing to a greener and more sustainable future.
Environmental Conservation and Sustainability
Sanjana Satagopan (United States)
Gender: Female
Age: 17
Title & Organization: Executive Director and Founder, EcoLearning Together
Description: Sanjana Satagopan, a 17-year-old environmental activist, co-founded EcoLearning Together with Annika Chan and Emmy Yang. Their nonprofit is dedicated to protecting and restoring ecosystems in urban communities. Sanjana's commitment to the UN Decade of Restoration and 1% for the Planet drives her efforts to combat climate crisis impacts. By removing litter and invasive species across various ecosystems, she exemplifies the change she wishes to see, fostering a sustainable future for urban environments.
Esther Mnyasa (Tanzania)
Gender: Female
Age: 23
Title & Organization: Tanzania Women for Environment
Description: Esther Mnyasa, a dedicated young leader from Tanzania, is committed to environmental conservation. Engaging in community-based activities, Esther focuses on building resilient livelihoods in the face of climate change. As part of "Tanzania Women for Environment," she contributes to initiatives that empower local communities to adapt and thrive in the changing environmental landscape.
Gideon Mumba (Zambia)
Gender: Male
Age: 25
Title & Organization: Founder/CEO for Know your Wildlife and the Environment Zambia (KWEZ) Initiative
Description: Gideon Mumba is the visionary founder and CEO of the "Know your Wildlife and the Environment Zambia (KWEZ) Initiative." This youth-led nonprofit organization is dedicated to achieving Sustainable Goals No. 3, 13, and 15 by fostering sustainable education in climate change, tourism, wildlife, and environmental education. Through initiatives in primary, secondary, and community schools, KWEZ Initiative equips young minds with knowledge about climate change and environmental health. Their efforts also extend to market cleaning activities, promoting a cleaner and healthier environment for all.
Jephthah Adelowo (Nigeria)
Gender: Male
Age: 29
Title & Organization: Creative Director of Jed Recycling
Description: Jephthah Adelowo is a co-founder of the JED Recycling initiative, focusing on recycling plastics and raising public awareness to combat environmental pollution. One of their projects was recognized by the Sustainable Ocean Alliance as a contributor to a sustainable environment and circular economy. Jephthah is a collaborative leader who engages stakeholders and communities, excelling in startups, community building, education, and professional development. With a passion for mission-based impact, he plays a pivotal role in driving positive change.
Martin Mulenga (Zambia)
Gender: Male
Age: 25
Title & Organization: Green Cosmos Organization
Description: Martin Mulenga is an ardent environmental activist and the founder/CEO of Green Cosmos Organization in Zambia. He has made a significant impact through his environmental awareness campaigns, which span various media platforms, including TV, radio, newspapers, and social media. Martin's dedication to driving environmental awareness nationwide reflects his passion for safeguarding the environment and inspiring positive change.
Ocen Patrick (Uganda)
Gender: Male
Age: 32
Title & Organization: Co-founder, YODELI SOCIAL FOUNDATION LIMITED
Description: Ocen Patrick is a co-founder of the YODELI SOCIAL FOUNDATION LIMITED, a social enterprise dedicated to promoting beekeeping in the Alebtong district of Northern Uganda. Through this initiative, Ocen contributes to both environmental conservation and local livelihoods. By supporting beekeeping, he actively engages in sustainable practices that benefit ecosystems and communities.
Roselyne Jellen Amongin (Uganda)
Gender: Female
Age: 20
Title & Organization: Youth Engagement Officer, Youth and Women for Opportunities Uganda
Description: Roselyne Jellen Amongin serves as a Youth Engagement Officer for the Youth and Women for Opportunities Uganda initiative. Her project focuses on agroforestry tree planting for education, pension funds, and environmental restoration. Through this project, she aims to benefit 1,500,000 individuals directly, organized into 150 groups of 100 each. The initiative aims to develop the capacity of beneficiaries in tree planting, providing them with the means to grow improved fruit trees for income generation. The fruits and timber from these trees will fund education and serve as a pension fund, creating a sustainable and impactful cycle of benefits for the community.
Viginus Nnaji (Nigeria)
Gender: Male
Age: 35
Title & Organization: GECCI (Global Environmental and Climate Conservation Initiative)
Description: Viginus Nnaji is a visionary leader and the driving force behind the Global Environmental and Climate Conservation Initiative (GECCI). As the leader of this youth-led campaign organization, Viginus spearheads global efforts to address environmental and climate challenges. GECCI's presence in over 90 countries and engagement in high-impact projects highlight Viginus's commitment to promoting sustainable agriculture, energy, climate change mitigation, biodiversity protection, and socially responsible farming.
Wilfred Chinzuma (Zambia)
Gender: Male
Age: 30
Title & Organization: Zambia WASHE Advocacy Network
Description: Wilfred Chinzuma is a zealous advocate from Zambia and a vital part of the Zambia WASHE Advocacy Network. He is deeply committed to mitigating plastic pollution, a pressing issue in his community. Wilfred's approach involves implementing recycling techniques to foster a green economy and raise awareness about the adverse impact of plastic pollution. Through his efforts, he strives to create a cleaner and more sustainable environment.
Global Collaboration and Advocacy
Brian Wekesa Mwangala (Kenya)
Gender: Male
Age: 23
Title & Organization: Regional Cell Coordinator, Greenpeace United
Description: Brian Wekesa Mwangala serves as the Regional Youth Cell Coordinator for Greenpeace United in East Africa. He is an integral part of a dynamic team comprising multidisciplinary professionals who are dedicated to driving environmental and sustainable livelihood solutions. Brian's role involves addressing bureaucratic challenges, promoting eco-friendly solutions, and fostering positive change through effective methodologies that align with Greenpeace United's mission.
Saad Uakkas (Morocco)
Gender: Male
Age: 27
Title & Organization: North Africa Coordinator in the African Youth Initiative for Climate Change
Description: Saad Uakkas is a prolific youth figure deeply involved in climate and health engagement. He holds various notable positions including TEDx speaker, Diana awardee, One Young World ambassador, UNESCO young researcher, and Gates Foundation Goalkeeper. His diverse achievements range from organizing campaigns to leading global youth organizations and coordinating medical students' responses to the COVID-19 pandemic. Saad is currently the North Africa Coordinator of the African Youth Initiative for Climate Change and a board member of the Red Cross Red Crescent Climate Centre youth advisory board. He played a significant role in organizing the first-ever COP27 children and youth pavilion.
Climate Energy
Muhammad Mubarak Abdulkarim (Nigeria)
Gender: Male
Age: 30
Title & Organization: Trainee / Climate Technology Solutions, Fellow / Student Energy
Description: Muhammad Mubarak Abdulkarim is an agent of change focusing on Sustainable Development Goal 7—affordable and clean energy. Through innovative projects, he has made a tangible impact in his community. He designed and implemented a solar-powered water system for a school for special needs, improving access to water for visually impaired students. He also orchestrated a solar-powered healthcare project that provided critical energy solutions for a local primary healthcare facility. These initiatives showcase his dedication to enhancing access to essential resources and services while embracing renewable energy solutions.
Abdel Naser Dwaikat (Palestine)
Gender: Male
Age: 35
Title & Organization: President at Association of Energy Engineers
Description: Abdel Naser Dwaikat is a dedicated leader committed to fostering sustainable change. As the President of the Association of Energy Engineers, he drives initiatives that empower youth to innovate for a greener world. Through collaborative efforts and creative solutions, Abdel Naser is actively shaping a path toward a more sustainable global future. Learn more about his journey and initiatives at: Association of Energy Engineers
