GLM TEAM 
As South Africa ushers in a promising new era of Government National Unity, the nation’s focus on sustainable development
has never been more critical. Recognizing the vital role of youth in this arena, WWF South Africa today launched the “Believe in South Africa’s Youth” campaign, an initiative aimed at empowering young environmental leaders across the country.
In a country where the youth demographic is substantial, supporting these young
visionaries at the forefront of environmental change is paramount. The campaign seeks
to highlight their achievements and inspire collective action towards sustainability and
conservation.
Celebrating Young Environmental Leaders
The campaign will spotlight several young South Africans whose innovative initiatives
are making significant impacts:
• Dean Carlisle – Change Maker
At 21, Dean Carlisle founded Lessons In Conservation to educate schools in
impoverished areas about the importance of nature. His efforts have reached
over 8,500 children across 110 schools in 11 African countries.
• Esethu Cenga – Big Thinker
Esethu Cenga co-founded Rewoven Africa, a startup dedicated to recycling
textiles to combat fashion waste. Her work advocates for sustainable practices
that prioritize the well-being of people and the planet over profits.
• Didi Mathibe – Future Leader
As a Circular Economy Analyst with WWF South Africa, Didi Mathibe focuses on
keeping plastics out of nature through sustainable design, consumption, and
waste reduction, advancing the country towards a circular economy.
• Jade Bothma – Action Taker
At just 15, Jade Bothma founded Oceano Reddents, a non-profit organization
turning ocean plastic litter into eco-bricks for building houses, addressing both
plastic pollution and housing issues with her deep passion for the sea.
Nominate Local Heroes:
As part of this campaign, WWF South Africa is inviting the public to nominate young
environmental leaders who are making a difference in their communities. By recognizing
the young change makers in our communities, South Africans can help encourage the
innovative leaders that we need for the future.
Competition Details:
1. Nomination Period: June 11 to July 11, 2024.
2. How to Nominate:
o Post a photo or video of the nominee on social media (Instagram,
Facebook, or Twitter).
o Include a description of their contributions to environmental sustainability.
o Use the hashtags #SAYouthForNature and #BelieveInYouth.
o Tag WWF South Africa’s official account.
3. Weekly Prizes: Each week, a nominator and their nominee will be selected.
o Nominator Prize: R1000 WWF voucher.
o Nominee Prize: R3000 in cash.
4. Winner Announcements: Weekly on WWF South Africa’s social media
channels and website.
5. Eligibility: Open to all South African residents, with nominees aged 13 to 25.
For more information on the campaign and how to participate, visit WWF South Africa’s
campaign page. Join the conversation on social media using #SAYouthForNature and
#BelieveInYouth.
Quote from Justin Smith, Business Development Director, WWF South Africa
“At a time when South Africa is entering a new era of unity and hope, our youth are
leading the charge towards a more sustainable future. The ‘Believe in South Africa’s
Youth’ campaign is not just about recognizing the incredible work already being done by
young environmental leaders, but also about inspiring a broader movement of collective
action. By supporting and empowering these young visionaries, we can ensure that the
next generation is equipped to tackle the environmental challenges we face and drive
the sustainable development our country needs.”
About WWF South Africa
Part of the global WWF network, WWF South Africa is one of the world’s most
respected independent conservation organizations. It works to inspire all South Africans
to live in harmony with nature for the benefit of the country and the well-being of all.
About The Author
