In our effort to make meaningful contributions to the fight towards climate justice, we are thrilled to announce that Her Environment, Her Future is back! As we gear up for the second iteration of Her Environment, Her Future (HEHF) funded by The Urban Movement Innovation Fund, it is important for us to reflect on the remarkable foundation we have to build upon. In 2022, the inaugural iteration of HEHF was nothing short of transformative. Out of more than 3000 applicants, we selected 20 incredible girls and women across Africa & Europe. We trained them to become young climate leaders who tangibly changed their communities, countries, and regions through deep-rooted climate advocacy and effective leadership. Such is the case for Esther Ishuga from Kenya, whose reflections shared through our recent interview captured the essence of what we aspire to deliver through Her Environment, Her Future.
Overview of the Program
Her Environment, Her Future is a 4-month, non-residential, youth leadership and advocacy virtual program for young women from Africa fighting against climate change. The program capitalises on the need and desire of young African women and girls to steer climate action in their communities. It builds their capacity on areas that are instrumental to effective climate action, such as leadership, personal development, climate change education, policy engagement, advocacy, green and social entrepreneurship, and effective communication.
This program presents each participant with a variety of benefits, including:
Access to comprehensive online training and personal and professional skills development in areas pertaining to climate change and climate action.
Transferable skills and knowledge on climate issues to bring awareness to your communities.
Opportunity to convene and network with like-minded individuals.
Support and recognition for the participants’ contributions throughout and beyond the program.
Opportunities to work with Africa Matters Initiative in different capacities after the program.
As we look forward with anticipation to welcoming the 2024 cohort of Her Environment, Her Future, we also take this opportunity to look back on how the program has impacted the lives of young women such as Esther Ishuga, who had an opportunity to share some of her reflections from the program. Below is a conversation that she had with the HEHF Team.
Interview with Esther Ishuga - HEHF Alumna from 2022 from Kenya
HEHF Team: How did participating in the HEHF program impact your personal and professional Development? (If it did)
Esther: Participating in the HEHF program had a profound impact on both my self-confidence and leadership skills. It prompted deep introspection, especially during sessions like “I Can and I Will.” This session encouraged me to reflect on questions I had never considered before, such as "What is my why?", "Who am I serving?", and "How?". Through this process, I realised that, despite my usual tendency to "go with the flow" to avoid disappointment, I actually have clear expectations and goals for the future. Professionally, the program deepened my understanding of climate policy and green entrepreneurship, directly benefiting my role as a Sustainability Associate at Niko Green. Additionally, it reinforced the importance of youth participation in climate advocacy, empowering me to use my voice to drive societal change and advocate for environmental sustainability.
HEHF Team: Did the program help you form any meaningful connections or networks? If so, can you tell us about them?
Esther: Absolutely, the HEHF program was instrumental in helping me form meaningful connections and networks. I met an incredible group of young women who are passionate about fighting climate change, and we continue to support each other in our respective initiatives. One particularly impactful connection was with Gloria Agyare, who has partnered with me as a panelist on climate advocacy conversations. Her insights and advice have been invaluable in my advocacy efforts. These relationships have been essential in reinforcing the importance of youth involvement in sustainable leadership and creating a more responsible society.
HEHF Team: What advice would you give to future participants of the HEHF program?
Esther: My advice to future participants of the HEHF program is to fully embrace the experience and be open to learning and growing. Take advantage of the opportunities to engage with mentors, network with peers, and participate actively in all program activities. Reflect on your personal motivations and goals, and consider creating a vision board to guide your journey. Understand and recognize that your voice has the power to create change. Use this time to develop your leadership skills and think about how you can apply what you learn to make a tangible impact in your community. Lastly, stay connected with your cohort and the broader network, as these relationships can provide ongoing support and collaboration opportunities long after the program ends.
HEHF Team: In what ways do you continue to engage with climate leadership and advocacy after the program?
Esther: After completing the HEHF program, I continue to engage with climate leadership and advocacy in several ways. I am actively involved in sustainability projects at Niko Green, where I lead research and analytics efforts to develop and implement sustainable practices. I participate in policy advocacy campaigns and contribute to the development of climate policies through my work with various organizations. I also remain connected with the HEHF network, supporting each other's efforts to drive positive change in our communities and beyond.
If you are passionate about climate justice and would like to contribute to the global conversation, we encourage you to apply for Her Environment, Her Future.
Applications close on Sunday, July 14, at 23:59 CAT.
We look forward to welcoming the new 2024 cohort of Her Environment, Her Future change makers to join us on this transformative journey as we work towards climate resilience—one day at a time.
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