Our story can be dated back to 2019, when I was first introduced to the concept of Sustainable Development through a course exposing the environmental issues plaguing the world. It was in those early lectures that I felt a mix of surprise and curiosity, as I and many of my classmate found ourselves unaware of the pressing environmental challenges, especially climate change, that the world was battling with. Intrigued by the topic, I decided to research the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the growing threat of climate change, and to my astonishment, I learned that over 60% of Nigerians had never even heard of climate change (Statista, 2023). This revelation ignited a passion within me to take action.
Driven by a desire to make a difference, I founded my own NGO, with a clear mission to educate people and empower them to act on climate change. I began volunteering with non-profit organizations focused on environmental sustainability and climate action, seeking to learn and contribute. In 2023, I had the privilege of interning with organizations such as Greenpeace USA, the National Geographic Society, and The Nature Conservancy through the Extern organization. My externship with the National Geographic Society was particularly rewarding, as it led to me being awarded a $2,000 seed funding to promote freshwater conservation within local communities and among youth. We successfully carried out outreach programs in schools and neighbourhoods, spreading awareness about the importance of preserving our freshwater resources.
In 2022, I had the opportunity to pitch my idea on ecosystem restoration as a solution to climate change at a competition held at Tongji University in China. Winning the competition earned me 2,000 Yuan, further validating my commitment to creating meaningful change.
Today, our work continues with unwavering dedication. Our NGO remains steadfast in our mission to advocate for environmental education, reaching out to youth and vulnerable communities, and empowering them to take collective action for a sustainable future.