GreenCape and WESSA are honouring the up-and-coming changemakers of South Africa and giving them opportunities to follow their dreams.
Cape Town, South Africa (27 May 2024) – GreenCape, a non-profit organisation dedicated to supporting South Africa’s green economy and WESSA (Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa) are thrilled to announce the winners of its prestigious Youth Voices Competition 2024 (YVC 2024). These young changemakers are the voices of our green future.
This competition is an exciting element of the South African Climate Change Champions Project, funded by the European Union. Spanning across the Eastern, Western, and Northern Capes, this initiative draws inspiration from the international Young Reporters for the Environment (YRE) programme, designed to empower youth as champions for climate justice within their communities.
The YVC aims to inspire young individuals, particularly from marginalised communities, to not only raise awareness about environmental issues but also to help develop innovative solutions as societal change agents. Climate Change Champs who actively participated in the project were invited to submit their articles or videos.
A panel of judges evaluated these using the YRE rubrics as the benchmark for the assessments. The competition culminated in a virtual showcase attended by all applicants, featuring an inspiring address by Ayakah Melithafa, a prominent young climate change activist from Cape Town, Western Cape.
Claiming first prize is Lindokuhle Bici, a ninth-grade pupil at Nompumelelo High School in Whittlesea, Eastern Cape and a dedicated member of the Climate Change Champs Youth Network. Despite trying to find a balance between academic responsibilities and the competition, Lindokuhle demonstrated great commitment to environmental advocacy, showcasing a strong ability to tackle complex climate change issues and motivate the community towards positive change.
Securing second prize is Juvann Links from Bergsig in the Northern Cape, a proactive individual who has played a key role in the Climate Change Champs Youth Network. His commendable commitment to environmental stewardship in the Northern Cape is evident through his innovative approach to addressing local environmental concerns, which sets an example for his peers.
Taking the third spot is Sinayo Lungile, of Chintsa in the Eastern Cape, a devoted Green Coast steward and a graduate in Nature Conservation. Her curiosity about the impacts of climate change on coastal communities and passion for nurturing sustainable communities are the driving forces behind her work.
GreenCape and WESSA, alongside its esteemed partners proudly celebrate the outstanding accomplishments of these budding journalists in making a significant contribution to environmental protection and mitigating climate change.
A sincere plea has been extended to the communities, businesses, and government agencies to rally behind and recognise the efforts of these young environmentalists, who are actively working towards creating a more sustainable future for South Africa.
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