SADC Youth Unite: Reflections on the Road to Earth Day 2025

Now that Earth Day 2025 has passed on April 22, it is an ideal moment to reflect on an extraordinary journey. A journey led by Africa’s youth in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region.

Africa’s youth are at the forefront of this change, using their collective energy, innovative thinking, and deep-rooted commitment to sustainability to spearhead a series of groundbreaking conversations on climate action and environmental stewardship. The ‘Road to Earth Day’ webinar series, hosted by Africa’s Leaders in Sustainability in collaboration with Vuka Online Radio has provided an engaging platform for young change-makers, student leaders, climate change activist and sustainability advocates to explore pressing environmental challenges and co-create solutions that can shape the continent's future.

This multi-week initiative is more than an event; it is a movement that unites voices and ideas toward a common mission: to build a more sustainable, resilient, and equitable Africa. Over several weeks, passionate change-makers, student leaders, and sustainability advocates came together to explore pressing environmental issues, culminating in a grand Earth Day Conference that celebrated unity, innovation, and the power of youth leadership.

In this article, I present a comprehensive overview of the webinar series, detailing each weekly session and highlighting the insights shared by dynamic panelists across the region. The discussions range from the principles of Ubuntu and green jobs to the impacts of climate change on land, and from envisioning Africa’s future through ESG (Environmental, Social & Governance) principles to reimagining climate change governance and policy.

Throughout these sessions illustrated through figures that capture the essence of each discussion the series culminates in an inspiring Earth Day Conference on April 22, 2025, where leaders convene to outline the steps toward actionable change.

Week 1: Ubuntu/Unity — The Power of African Youth as One Entity

The inaugural session of the webinar series set the tone for the collaborative spirit that has defined the Road to Earth Day initiative. Held on 18 March 2025, under the theme “Unity – SADC Youth as One Entity (Ubuntu) / Collaboration for Impactful Climate Action,” this opening event brought together influential voices dedicated to championing the ethos of Ubuntu “I am because we are.”

Figure 1: Panelists of Week 1- An inspiring assembly of young leaders embodying Ubuntu and unity, setting the stage for a transformative dialogue on climate action.

The session featured a forward-thinking lineup of panelists:

1. Dennis Chipili, President of the Southern Africa Student Union; whose keynote speech emphasized how unity across diverse cultures can fuel transformative change. He reminded us that unity is not merely an ideal but a necessary catalyst for meaningful change. His ideas of mutual respect and collective responsibility resonated deeply with everyone.
2. McCayla Warriker, Ms. Africa; whose dynamic presentation underscored the significance of leadership, community engagement, and the role of families in nurturing a sustainable future. Her engaging narrative bridged traditional values with modern environmental imperatives. Also indicate the overview on education level, in order to educate our young ones about the climate change and environmental sustainability.
3.  Musandiwa Sinyosi, Climate Change Writers South Africa Team Lead & Climate Change Writers Content Writer; who passionately articulated the importance of amplifying youth voices and addressing cross-border collaboration challenges SADC region. And overcome the regional challenges.

This session laid the groundwork for subsequent discussion. By invoking the spirit of togetherness, the panel demonstrated that African youth, when united, can surmount challenges and drive systemic change. It was a powerful reminder that the collective energy and diversity of perspectives across the continent could be leveraged to achieve impactful results.

Throughout the session, the panelists explored how culturally rooted values like Ubuntu could be harnessed to bridge differences and foster a cohesive movement for climate action. Their discussion ignited a spark among the young audience, motivating them to voice their ideas and commit to transforming obstacles into opportunities.

Week 2: Green Jobs and the Future of Work — Empowering a Sustainable Economy 

Building on the momentum generated in Week 1, the second session held on 25 March 2025, shifted the focus from social unity, to economic transformation and sustainability. With the theme “Green Jobs and the Future of Work,” the session delved into the emerging opportunities within the green economy and addressed the urgent need to align skills with future demands.

Figure 2: Panelists of Week 2 - A vibrant group of innovators and thought leaders paving the way for a future defined by sustainable economic growth and green job opportunities.

The session featured a forward-thinking lineup of panelists:

1. Gabsie Ndukuya, President of Swaziland National Union of Students; delved into the transformative potential of green jobs, emphasizing that opportunities in sustainability extend beyond environmental science. Her insights encouraged youth from all academic and professional backgrounds to explore careers in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and eco-friendly technologies.
2. Palisa Ntsala, Environmental Expect; highlighted the indispensable role of indigenous knowledge in developing sustainable solutions. By weaving together traditional practices with modern technological advances, she illustrated that our heritage is a vital asset in the fight against climate change.
3. Oyesigye Clinton Liberty, Uganda National Coordinator for Youth Climate Change Negotiators; concluded the session with a compelling address on the need for robust business skills and mentorship. He stressed that the future of work is evolving and that young professionals must be equipped with the necessary tools, such as proposal writing and strategic planning, to thrive in global markets.

The session underscored that the transition to a green economy is not merely an environmental imperative it is also a significant economic opportunity. With African economies rapidly evolving, preparing for a future where sustainability and work go hand in hand is essential.

By equipping the youth with the skills, knowledge, and entrepreneurial mindset needed for emerging green sectors, this session ignited hope and enthusiasm for a future where economic growth is synonymous with environmental stewardship.

The discussion also spotlighted the importance of policy reforms and educational shifts to support the training and development of the next generation’s workforce. With a keen focus on bridging the gap between academia and industry, the panelists discuss that the future of work in Africa depends on creating inclusive and dynamic educational frameworks that empower youth across the SADC region.

Week 3: Climate Change Impacts on Land—Balancing the Green and the Industrial

As the webinar series advanced, Week 3 brought into focus one of Africa’s most pressing issues: the impact of climate change on land. Under the title “Climate Change Impacts on Land,” this session broadcast on 01 April 2025 analyzed how both natural and industrial landscapes are being reshaped by environmental change.

Figure 3: Panelists of Week 3 - A diverse collection of experts tackling the intricate challenges of climate change and its multifaceted impact on Africa’s land bridging the gap between environmental preservation and industrial progress.

The session featured a forward-thinking lineup of panelists:

1. Emmanuel Nyakudya, Secretary General of Zimbabwe National Students Union (ZINASU); during the session discuss on underscoring the absence of climate education at all levels of school system. He highlighted that this gap undermines youth engagement in climate advocacy and policymakers to regulate mining-sector pollution in order to balance industrial growth with environmental protection.
2. Roselilly Ushewokunze, Food Justice Network Coordinator; she championed agro-ecology as a solution to both food scarcity and environmental degradation. She called for increased investment in agro-ecological farming and for elevating women’s leadership within food-system transformation. Her Feminist Agroecology Models School is already equipping farmers with regenerative climate-resilient practices.
3. Tsebo Koena, Consulting Engineer & Business Developer;  provided innovative examples of sustainable engineering practices, like the use of recycled plastics to create environmentally friendly building materials, reinforcing the role of technology and community engagement in solving ecological challenges. He emphasizes the importance to prepare the younger generation for blue and green economy, and the use of AI as a tool to creating more Eco-friendly and sustainable engineering.

By addressing the dual challenges posed by both green and industrial land use, this session reinforced the fact that the sustainable management of Africa's natural resources is critical to the continent's resilience. The discussions served as a reminder that our land is our legacy. Balancing industrial development with ecological preservation is not merely an environmental concern it is the cornerstone of our collective future.

Week 4: The Future of Africa and ESG — A Blueprint for Inclusive Growth

The fourth installment of the series moves beyond immediate challenges to envision the future trajectory of Africa under the ESG framework. This session, themed “The Future of Africa & ESG,” held on 08 April 2025, gathered visionary leaders to discuss how Environmental, Social, and Governance principles can propel the continent toward long-term sustainability.

Figure 4: Panelists of Week 4 - Forward-thinking leaders exploring how ESG principles can transform Africa’s future merging economic ambition with environmental responsibility and social equity.

The session featured a forward-thinking lineup of panelists:

1. Theo Monageng, President of the Botswana National Union of Student (BONUS); initiated the discussion by articulating the critical role of ESG in redefining Africa's developmental trajectory. His message was clear: an equitable future demands responsible leadership that integrates environmental accountability with social progress.
2. Thato Gabaitse, Director of We The World Botswana; a celebrated SDG Champion impressed upon the audience the necessity of cohesive policies that embed sustainability into every facet of economic development. Her insights painted a picture of an Africa where every sector contributes to and benefits from sustainable practices.
3. Hira Roohani, an Esgenetique ESG Consultant; provided actionable strategies on how both public and private sectors can synergize to uphold ESG standards. Her practical approach resonated with the audience, illustrating that sustainable development is not a distant dream but an achievable reality.

The discussion during this session centered on how embracing ESG principles could lead to scalable, impactful solutions that empower communities. The panelists aligning economic development with sustainability goals, Africa has the potential to leapfrog conventional developmental models and create a resilient, future-ready society. They stressed that ESG is not just a framework for responsible business it is a blueprint for building inclusive, equitable economies that value people and the planet equally.

This forward-looking conversation encouraged participants to imagine a continent where policymaking and business practices are guided by sustainability and transparency. The session not only set the stage for innovation and creative problem solving but also reinforced the belief that a united, ESG-focused Africa can drive global change.

Week 5: Climate Change Governance and Policy — Charting the Path Forward

The fifth week of the webinar series, themed “Climate Change Governance and Policy,” brought focus to the critical role of effective governance in fostering environmental accountability and sustainable development. Meeting was held on 15 April 2025, this session gathered experts who are actively involved in shaping climate policies across the SADC region.

Figure 5: Panelists of Week 5 - A powerful assembly of policy-makers and community leader dedicated to redefining climate governance, ensuring Africa’s transition to sustainability is both fair and forward-looking.

The session featured a forward-thinking lineup of panelists:

1. Thandeka Khumalo, Traditional Healer & Community Leader; shared insights reminding us that our most potent remedies lies in the ancestral knowledge of the land , now threatened by modern disconnection, pharmaceutical monopolies, and climate upheaval. As seasons shift and wild herbs dwindle, the price of healing soars, underscoring her urgent call to revive traditional wisdom, protect biodiversity, and ensure that the earth’s natural pharmacy remains accessible to all.
2. Lebogang Mogale, an Urban & Environmental Researcher; provided an in-depth analysis of South Africa’s newly signed Climate Change Act. Her presentation underscored that progressive policies require constant evaluation and adaptation to the evolving challenges of climate change.

This session was particularly potent in highlighting the intersection of policy, community, and traditional knowledge. By integrating modern governance practices with indigenous perspectives, the dialogue created a blueprint for policies that are not only effective but also equitable.

Earth Day Conference 2025: A Grand Culmination of Vision and Action

On 22 April 2025, the Earth Day Conference became the culminating celebration of our collective efforts and discussions. The conference was more than a ceremonial event it was a dynamic convergence of ideas, innovations, and community action.

Figure 6: Panelists of Week 6 - A diverse collection of experts tackling the future in leadership of climate change and its multifaceted impact on Africa’s land.

Conference Highlights:

• The Future of Leadership: Speakers reflected on the global challenges and local opportunities that lie ahead. Discussions centered on reshaping leadership paradigms in the changing global landscape and envisioning an Africa where sustainable practices are at the heart of every policy decision.
• Community Engagement: In a powerful demonstration of grassroots activism, a community-led cleanup took place in New Castle, Osizweni. This practical exercise embodied the notion that every action, however small, contributes significantly to a healthier environment.
• Educational Outreach: Khotso led educational sessions at Nguzo Saba School, illustrating the importance of instilling environmental stewardship and sustainable practices at the community level. The lessons delivered were both inspirational and empowering for the young attendees.

The Earth Day Conference was a fitting finale to a weeks-long series that had already kindled a spirit of unity and innovation across the SADC region. It was a day to celebrate achievements, acknowledge challenges, and set the stage for sustained action in the months and years to come.

Looking Ahead: The Journey Continues

Earth Day is not just a day marked on the calendar it is a global symbol of our collective responsibility toward the planet. Even though Earth Day 2025 has passed, the spirit of change that defined this series lives on. The knowledge shared, the connections made, and the actionable insights discussed over these weeks are not confined to a single day they are the seeds of ongoing transformation in the SADC region. Youth-led initiatives, inspired by the Road to Earth Day series, will continue to drive change in environmental policy, economic development, and community engagement.

As Africa's youth rally under the banner of sustainable progress, there is a shared understanding that environmental challenges require continuous dialogue, persistent advocacy, and innovative solutions. The work does not stop with a single conference or a series of webinars; it is an ever-evolving effort that calls for the active participation of every community member, every leader, and every policy-maker.

The Earth Day Conference was a celebration of what we can achieve when we come together. It was a validation of months of insightful discussions and a demonstration of what a united, proactive youth can accomplish. Looking ahead, let us carry forward the lessons of Ubuntu, continue to invest in green skills, and ensure that indigenous wisdom is never lost amid rapid modernization. Our journey does not end here it is a commitment to a future where every day is an opportunity to build a cleaner, greener, and more resilient Africa.

Conclusion: A Testament to the Power of Unity and Vision

The Road to Earth Day 2025 has been an incredible journey a journey of discovery, unity, and action led by the passionate youth of the SADC region. Each week brought new insights:

• Week 1 - Set the stage with a call for unity rooted in the timeless philosophy of Ubuntu.
• Week 2 - Charted a course for economic transformation through green jobs and sustainable work practices.
• Week 3 - Confronted the impacts of climate change on our land, challenging us to balance industrial progress with ecological preservation.
• Week 4 - Envisioned Africa’s future through the lens of ESG, merging economic ambitions with social equity and environmental responsibility.
• Week 5 - Laid the foundations for robust policy and governance that can steer Africa towards a sustainable future.

Earth Day 2025 was not the end but rather a new beginning a launch pad for future initiatives and a powerful reminder that change is possible when we work together. It is a call to every stakeholder from policy-makers and educators to students and community leaders to continue championing the causes that matter.

As I reflect on the success of this series, I am filled with immense hope and pride. Africa’s youth have proved that through unity, innovation, and bold leadership, we can indeed reshape our destiny. Let the lessons learned and the relationships forged during this journey be a beacon for all who believe in a brighter, more sustainable future.

The power to transform our environment lies within us. Let us embrace this shared responsibility, continue our advocacy, and build on the momentum of Earth Day 2025. Together, we are not just imagining a sustainable Africa we are building it, one idea, one action, and one united community at a time.