CLIMATE & YOUTH ADVOCACY IN AFRICA//PADI

Recently, I had a profound conversation with a friend from the diaspora about the state of African youth in leadership and the climate discourse. He shared concerns about the vices plaguing young people in his country, but my optimism led me to ask about the other side of the story. Are there young people making a difference? To my relief, he affirmed that many are committed to nation-building, climate action, and advancing the UNSDGs.

This conversation reminded me of my leadership journey at PADI, where I’ve had the privilege of engaging with youth leaders across the continent. It encourages me to continue these vital conversations, especially when youthful exuberance and moral decadence seem to dominate. Despite these challenges, countless young minds are committed to creating a better future.

A prime example is Christabel Clotilda Mhiribidi, a young climate actor from Zimbabwe. As a Geography and Environmental Studies graduate, Christabel currently serves as the Clerk of the 3rd Southern Africa Development Community Youth Parliament, working under the Natural Resource Governance, Environment, and Climate Change Cluster. Her passion for climate action has earned her prestigious titles, including 2024 Max Thabiso Edkins Climate Ambassador, COP28 International Youth Climate Delegate, and Italy-IRENA I Act for Climate Peer Educator.

Christabel’s work in the climate space is truly inspiring. From capacity-building initiatives, climate blogging, and drafting policy briefs, to mobilizing youth for Pre-COP position papers and leading climate justice campaigns—she is an unstoppable force. She’s also a certified climate negotiator with training from Oxford Climate Society and UN-Habitat, and a dedicated volunteer with the ZELA Youth Network.

Notably, Christabel was one of 20 youths globally selected for a youth climate dialogue with UN Secretary-General António Guterres at COP27 in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt. Her accolades in climate and environmental advocacy are a testament to the power of youth-driven change.

Our conversation explored the role of youth in climate action and advocacy, emphasizing how African youth are rising to the challenge in the fight for a sustainable future.

This version keeps the message inspiring while highlighting Christabel's achievements and your reflections on youth leadership. Let me know if you'd like any adjustments!

PADI, a youth-led climate advocacy group in Nigeria takes the conversation from West Africa to the Southern Africa region, exploring the potentials resident in Africa. Led by Idowu Anuoluwapo Ezekiel (Nigerian) with Christabel Clotilda Mhrirbidi (Zimbabwean). #climatechange #climateaction #Africa #Nigeria #Zimbabwe #COP #Leadership #UNSDG #Lifeonland #plantadecadeinitiative #padi #Africanyouth @UN @SDG @UNDP #UNEP #UNFCC
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