Favour Eragbie Ochuwa (she/her)

How are you using education to build more sustainable and equitable communities? Tell us about your EE work and impact.

I am using education to build a sustainable world by redistributing climate opportunities to young people in marginalized communities, not only to inform them of the effects of climate change but also empower them with the knowledge and tools to develop context-specific solutions towards strengthening climate resilience.

I founded Friends of Nature Network where I work to empower young people from low income communities to lead change through conservatory projects. This initiative is currently engaging students across 13 countries in Africa. For example, our Pledge for Nature Project has impacted more than 5,000 young people in Africa, developing their knowledge to change attitudes and behaviours to drive climate action in their communities. Through the project's monitoring and evaluation, we have tracked an increased interest of young people to protect the environment and engage friends and family. This project has led to cleanups that have removed over 1,000 kg of waste from the environment, produced more than 200 fuel briquettes, planted tree samples to rewild land areas, and upcycled plastic into stools. We are providing climate education for young people so that we can all begin to halt nature loss through our activities and allow ecosystems to begin to recover. These are crucial steps to limit climate change and secure a sustainable future for current and future generations.

Tell us about your journey to where you are today. What inspired you? What has your path been like?

My inspiration comes from witnessing the disparity in climate knowledge and the failed promises from our leaders to equip young people with the knowledge, skills, and resources to build resilience against climate change. I began my journey by educating my friends and families and encouraging them to take action; through this we were able to form a team with other young people and moved to design and implement projects that directly fit into the hearts of those who need it the most.

How can people learn more about or support your work?

Friends of Nature Network and the Pledge for Nature Project can be supported through donations, sponsorships, and partnerships. 

A Little More About Me

What (or who) keeps you hopeful for the future?

Seeing the passion and enthusiasm from young people, I am confident we are going to have great leaders.

What advice would you give to the next generation of leaders?

I would say that you have the strength and ability to contribute to a better world, so start from where you are.

What are your hobbies?

Reading, painting, and singing.

How do you unwind?

Listening to music.