WWF South Africa has launched the 'Believe in South Africa's Youth' campaign aimed at empowering young environmental leaders across the country. The campaign has highlighted the efforts of four young pioneers whose passion and dedication are making a meaningful difference to their communities and the environment.
In a country where the youth demographic is substantial, supporting these young visionaries at the forefront of environmental change is paramount, says the WWF.
The campaign seeks to highlight their achievements and inspire collective action towards sustainability and conservation, says the organisation.
Celebrating Young Environmental Leaders
According to the WWF, the campaign will spotlight several young South Africans whose innovative initiatives are making significant impacts:
Dean Carlisle
At 21, Carlisle founded Lessons in Conservation to educate schools in impoverished areas about the importance of nature. His efforts have reached over 8 500 children across 110 schools in 11 African countries.
Esethu Cenga
Cenga co-founded Rewoven Africa, a startup dedicated to recycling textiles to combat fashion waste. Her work advocates for sustainable practices that prioritise the well-being of people and the planet over profits.
Didi Mathibe
As a circular economy analyst with WWF South Africa, Mathibe focuses on keeping plastics out of nature through sustainable design, consumption and waste reduction, advancing the country towards a circular economy.
Jade Bothma
At just 15, Bothma founded Oceano Reddents, which is a non-profit organisation turning ocean plastic litter into eco-bricks for building houses. It addresses both plastic pollution and housing issues with her deep passion for the sea.
Justin Smith, head of business development at WWF South Africa, says, "As South Africa embarks on a new chapter of unity and progress, the youth stand as beacons of hope and innovation. The 'Believe in South Africa's Youth' campaign is dedicated to shining a spotlight on the extraordinary contributions of our young environmental champions. By fostering and celebrating their efforts, we aim to galvanise a nationwide movement towards sustainability."
Smith concludes, "Our youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are the change-makers of today. It's our duty and privilege to support their journey and amplify their voices in the fight for a sustainable future."
Individuals are encouraged to join the conversation on social media using #SAYouthForNature and #BelieveInYouth.
For more information, visit www.wwf.org.za. You can also follow WWF South Africa on Facebook, X, or on Instagram.
*Image courtesy of contributor