About
The Ban Ki-moon Centre for Global Citizens (BKMC), in collaboration with Dubai Cares, Plan International, and Unbounded Associates, proudly presents the “Your Future in Green Jobs” program — designed to empower young changemakers to connect their passion, interests, and skills with meaningful green careers.
The program has two key components:
- A FREE self-paced Online Course, which consists of 6 modules and is full of interactive assignments, videos and plenty of new information and reflection spaces for learners to explore climate change and their role in tackling it. Those completing the course receive a certificate of completion, signed by 8th Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN) and BKMC Co-chair Ban Ki-moon.
- A Mentorship program, which builds on the knowledge of the online course and provides the opportunity for 22 young people between 14 to 20 from around the world to take the first steps in their green career journeys. Applications for the 2025 Mentorship are now closed.
What will you learn?
The course aims to help you to:
- Become aware of climate change and the diverse range of jobs that can contribute to solutions.
- Gain a deep understanding of your own skills and talents, recognizing the unique value you bring to the table.
- Achieve a profound sense of empowerment, knowing that you have the agency to choose a career path that tackles climate change.
- Reflect on yourself and your aspirations, nurturing a strong sense of purpose and direction.
- Understand the broad definition of a green job and explore the diverse career paths within the industry.
- Develop a clear sense of what next steps are necessary for you to pursue your passion, be that further studies, vocational trainings, internships or founding your own start-up.
To complete this course, you need to study 50% of the board material and complete the final assignment in Module 6. We do not grade your reflections, but we encourage you to fill these questions out as well.
Course Overview
Module 1: Spot the Challenge
In this module, you will be introduced to key concepts related to climate change and green jobs. This module will help you “spot the challenge” of climate change and understand how you can act on your climate concerns through your career decisions. By the end of this module, you will be ready to move onto Module 2: Listen to Yourself.
Module 2: Listen to Yourself
In this module, you will build on what you learned in Module 1: Spot the Challenge and learn about the skills necessary for green jobs. You will think critically about how these green skills apply to different jobs and to your own life. By the end of the module, you will have reflected on which green skills you already possess and which you would like to keep building, preparing you to advance to Module 3: Find Youth Path.
Module 3: Find Your Path
In this module, you will build on what you’ve learned in Modules 1 and 2 and be introduced to an array of green career paths across different sectors by attending a Virtual Green Job Career Fair. The goal of this module is to give you a sense of the possibilities that lie ahead as you embark on your green career path. You will reflect on and assess what career paths most interest you and align with your skillset and values. By the end of this module, you will be ready to move on to Module 4: Consider the Bigger Picture.
Module 4: Consider The Bigger Picture
In this module, you will build on what you’ve learned in the first half of the course to connect green jobs to broader systems of change, exploring how all 17 of the Sustainable Development Goals are relevant to green jobs and a green transition. The goal of this module is to broaden your perspective of green jobs toward seeing how all jobs can be green jobs. By the end of this module, you will be ready to move on to Module 5: Unlock Your Inner Entrepreneur.
Module 5: Unlock Your Inner Entrepreneur
In this module, you will learn how you can bring your personal skills, interests, and values to whatever green job you decide to take on, adopting an entrepreneurial spirit in how you live and work more sustainably. The goal of this module is to prompt reflection on your own values and how they may align with your green career path and to introduce you to the work that green entrepreneurs around the world are doing, building their skills, following their interests, and working in alignment with their values while contributing to sustainable development. By the end of this module, you will be ready to move on to the final module of this course, Module 6: Build Your Green Career.
Module 6: Build Your Green Career
In this module, you will complete a Green New Careers quiz from the Sunrise Movement, and then learn about the different green career paths that may suit you best. The goal of this module is to bring together all you have learned about green jobs and yourself throughout this course. Thus, you will finish the course feeling confident and excited about finding the right green career path for you. By the end of this module, you will have a better idea of the types of green jobs out there that match your interests and working styles, and you will be ready to apply all you’ve learned in this course to the real world!
Mentees 2025
Aathika Hazmer
Sri Lanka
Aathika Hazmer
Aathika is a 17-year-old law and international relations student who is extremely passionate about global affairs, with a commitment to driving social change. Her dedication to climate action first began when she first recognized the impact of climate change and its connection to a range of social issues within her own community. Since then, research and raising awareness have become incredibly important to her, and Aathika believes that young people share a vital role in advancing climate action
Amaya Chopra
India
Amaya Chopra
From the state of Haryana in India, Amaya is a young changemaker currently pursuing a degree in economics and finance at Ashoka University. From representing her university in swimming and student government to interning at hospitals and finance startups, she loves to be challenged and learn through experiences. Amaya is particularly interested in plastic pollution in coastal communities and damage to coral reefs, and is driven by creativity, curiosity, and a commitment to making meaningful, sustainable change
Amira AwadAllah
Egypt
Amira AwadAllah
Amira AwadAllah is a 19-year-old engineering student at the French University in Egypt and the CEO of a scientific research initiative in Giza. Raised in a rural farming village, Amira is passionate about using technology to drive social impact. Her leadership focuses on fostering a strong culture of scientific inquiry and innovation, particularly in underserved communities. With a growing interest in artificial intelligence and machine learning, she seeks to apply these tools to healthcare and environmental challenges. Amira is committed to advancing accessible solutions that address local issues and empower the next generation of changemakers.
Aysha Alshami
United Arab Emirates
Aysha Alshami
Aysha is a passionate sustainability advocate and student at the University of Sharjah. With a background in chemical and water salination engineering, Aysha is passionate about finding solutions to environmental challenges, particularly in the areas of water management and energy production. Currently part of the ‘Future Sustainability Leaders Program’ with Masdar, she is dedicated to driving meaningful change through interdisciplinary research and hands-on projects in sustainability, aiming to create a greener and more sustainable future for her community and beyond.
Benedict Legason
Phillippines
Benedict Legason
Benedict is a youth leader who brings together six years of journalism experience and a solid background in psychology. As a student at Manila Central University, he is all about pushing for transparency, inclusivity, and environmental advocacy. Benedict works on initiatives such as the ECOssemble Project under Lunsad Kabataan, where he mixes environmental awareness with artistic expression. Over the years, he has taken on different roles from public relations to human resources to editorial leadership to build dynamic, empowered communities. Through his work, he continues to inspire fellow young people to get involved and make a real difference.
Chloe Melody Soerjanto
Indonesia
Chloe Melody Soerjanto
Chloe Melody Soerjanto is a 15-year-old changemaker from Jakarta, Indonesia with a strong interest in climate justice, education access, and policy change. Through global academic competitions and international MUNs, she has cultivated a deep understanding of global inequality and environmental challenges. Chloe is the founder of Writerz Room, a platform supporting underprivileged youth with scholarships, mentorship, and guidance on green careers. A strong believer in youth-driven change, Chloe is committed to empowering marginalized communities with the tools to lead sustainable, equitable futures.
Hala Sharafeddine
Lebanon
Hala Sharafeddine
Hala Sharafeddine is a 16-year-old student and accomplished writer from Beirut, Lebanon with a passion for environmental sustainability. From winning international essay competitions in childhood to volunteering with leading organizations like All Girls Code and the American University of Beirut’s sustainability units, Hala has consistently channeled her energy into meaningful action. Her work spans from nature conservation to urban sustainability, and she thrives at the intersection of research, communication, and innovation. With aspirations to become an environmental engineer, Hala is committed to reshaping how communities think about waste, resources, and the future of our planet.
Hashiatu Ibrahim
Cameroon
Hashiatu Ibrahim
Hashiatu is a 19-year-old from the Mbororo Indigenous community of Cameroon. She is a first-year student pursuing a bachelor’s degree in software engineering at the Azimut Higher Institute. She is also a climate justice advocate and youth trainer with Mboa Hub, a youth-led initiative empowering young people in climate education. Also a volunteer with Greenpeace Africa, Hashiatu has implemented local initiatives aimed at raising awareness and promoting sustainable practices within her community. With a vision to use technology for climate solutions, she is committed to ensuring a sustainable future for all.
Laya Nowwara
Jordan
Laya Nowwara
Laya Nowwara, a 16-year-old student from Amman, Jordan, is a strong advocate for climate action and gender equality. Driven by a deep sense of responsibility and climate anxiety since childhood, she has written numerous articles and participated in research exploring environmental solutions. Her self-education journey includes works like This Changes Everything by Naomi Klein and The Uninhabitable Earth by David Wallace-Wells. Through both academic and independent efforts, she works to amplify intersectional approaches to climate justice. She believes that empowering marginalized voices, especially women’s, is essential to building a resilient, sustainable future for all.
Martyna Kuik
Poland
Martyna Kuik
Martyna Kuik is a 14-year-old youth leader from Poland who is passionate about advancing gender equality and inclusive education. As founder and Secretary General of Equal Grounds, a youth organization based in Brussels, she works to promote equal opportunities for young women and challenge gender stereotypes in schools and communities. Martyna’s initiatives focus on empowering girls and boys through workshops, awareness campaigns, and digital resources designed to build leadership skills. Martyna believes that collective efforts and education are key to overcoming systemic barriers and building a more equitable future.
Muhammad Zainulabdin
Pakistan
Muhammad Zainulabdin
Zain is a first-year chemical engineering student with a strong passion for sustainability and innovation. A runner-up in the Greenovation competition for his eco-friendly water purifier project, he actively explores solutions for a greener future. He is also learning Python to enhance his skills in data analysis and process simulation. Zain is eager to deepen his understanding of climate solutions and to align his technical skills with strategic climate goals. With a solid academic background and growing technical expertise, he is committed to becoming a skilled and impactful engineer.
Ngwachi Ngonjoh Melvis
Cameroon
Ngwachi Ngonjoh Melvis
Ngonjoh Melvis, from Ndop, Cameroon, is a passionate advocate driven by personal experience for climate action and gender equality. Witnessing the devastating impact of climate change on her rice-farming community and experiencing gender-based violence firsthand, she is determined to drive sustainable change. As an active member of the University of Bamenda’s environmental club and the Rural Women Actions for Sustainability and Justice organization, Melvis aims to address climate change while simultaneously empowering women and girls, as well as combatting GBV and early marriage in her community and beyond. Her experiences have fueled an unwavering commitment to achieving the SDGs.
Noel Espinosa
Panama
Noel Espinosa
Noel Espinosa, an 18-year-old sustainability advocate, is a highly motivated and accomplished leader. Certified by the CSU Institute of Entrepreneurship, Rodale Institute, and UNDP, Noel excels in analytical thinking and assertive communication. He’s the Project Manager and General Coordinator of EmpoderaMIA, a women’s empowerment organization in Panama, showcasing his leadership and commitment to social justice and equity. His passion lies in the circular economy and sustainable solutions, and he’s adept at implementing research-based methodologies in community service projects. Noel is innovative, determined, and adaptable, seeking to pragmatize women’s empowerment through sustainable entrepreneurship.
Rania Allauddin
Pakistan
Rania Allauddin
Rania Allauddin is a high school student from Lahore who is exploring how local actions can contribute to larger climate solutions. She’s been involved in projects focused on waste management, community engagement, and environmental storytelling. Whether through writing, volunteering, or working with peers, she works to understand the impact of everyday choices on climate and hopes to use this opportunity to grow as part of a global community working towards sustainability. Living in a city challenged by rising temperatures and worsening air quality, Rania is passionate about addressing local environmental issues such as urban waste mismanagement and seasonal crop burning.
Renzo Lacida
Philippines
Renzo Lacida
Renzo Lacida is a 16-year-old student who is deeply committed to driving systemic change through sustainable business. As the youngest person to complete the Villars Institute’s Ecopreneurship Program, he explores how eco-friendly enterprises can contribute to a net-zero economy. Renzo has actively engaged in projects like fundraising to plant over 500 coconut trees for impoverished farmers in the Philippines, connecting his business ambitions with community impact. He looks forward to advancing climate initiatives and believes that young people must be engaged as much as possible to tackle these problems intergenerationally.
Salma Walid Matar
Jordan
Salma Walid Matar
Salma Walid Matar is 15-year-old student at the Jubilee Institute in Amman, Jordan with an interest in international politics, sustainability, and public service. Passionate about global development and inspired by the potential of youth-led change, Salma envisions a future where she can work with the United Nations to promote climate justice and protect underrepresented communities. Her communication skills and passion for debate have fueled her drive to become a changemaker through policy, diplomacy, and advocacy. After completing the Your Future in Green Jobs course, Salma became even more determined to use her voice to connect environmental goals with political action.
Shaji Maria
India
Shaji Maria
Shaji is an aspiring biomedical professional and interested in advancing healthcare through science and innovation. She has participated in projects such as Technovision, where her team presented a clean energy solution focused on harvesting solar energy in space and transmitting it wirelessly to Earth. Involved in Emirates Environmental Group Initiatives and a volunteer for local recycling initiatives, she is eager to explore opportunities in the scientific community and help create a world that is healthier for both people and planet alike.
Simon Kacha
Zambia
Simon Kacha
Simon is a 19-year-old student at Mulungushi University and advocate for sustainable development and youth empowerment, with a particular focus in community health and fostering entrepreneurship among underserved populations. While his academic focus is on medicine, his passion for addressing the broader determinants of health, including the impact of climate change, has motivated him to seek solutions that bridge both fields. Simon is eager to explore how climate issues affect public health and to lead initiatives that address both health and environmental challenges.
Swagatha M S
India
Swagatha M S
Swagatha, from Kerala, India, began her career as a child representative in UNICEF’s Climate Change Warriors program and the Kerala Government, where she developed a deep interest in youth-led environmental advocacy. Since then, she has actively contributed to various environmental initiatives, focusing on community engagement, awareness, and sustainable practices. An aspiring scientist and deeply purpose driven, Swagatha is committed to using science as a force for positive environmental change for generations to come.
Varnessa Kayen Varlyngton
Nigeria
Varnessa Kayen Varlyngton
Varnessa Kayen Varlyngton is a 14-year-old Nigerian environmentalist and award-winning author whose work is reshaping youth civic engagement. As the founder and executive director of Egalitarianism For Earth, Varnessa leads over 70 global youth in reimagining climate education and environmental advocacy through civic tech. She is the youngest Nigerian to be named a UN:CC Learn Champion and serves on advisory bodies such as UNICEF’s GenU 9JA Young People’s Action Team and the Global Youth Council for Science, Sustainability, and Law. Varnessa combines bold leadership with creative storytelling to champion children’s environmental rights and intergenerational climate justice.
Vincen Tachika Ho
Indonesia
Vincen Tachika Ho
Vincen “Chika” Tachika is a food technology student from Borneo, Indonesia and passionate about sustainability and local empowerment. As a former Regional Coordinator for Generasi Sehat Indonesia, she helped reach over 10,000 beneficiaries in a campaign against stunting. Whether it’s through business, community efforts, or simple daily choices, she hopes to build a sustainable future through small, scalable actions. Chika believes that real change starts locally and is committed to sparking a ripple effect of responsible consumption and production.
Yasmine Hayek
Lebanon
Yasmine Hayek
Yasmine is an International Baccalaureate student at Brummana High School in Lebanon with an interest in pursuing civil and environmental engineering. Motivated by her love for nature and belief that everyone deserves to live in a clean and safe environment, Yasmine hopes to develop sustainable infrastructure that supports ecological systems. She has actively volunteered in community service and environmental initiatives, blending her technical curiosity with a deep sense of social responsibility. In her future career, she hopes to be part of Lebanon’s transformation into a more sustainable, aware, and environmentally just society.
Mentors 2025
Adeosun Olayinka Clement
Nigeria
Adeosun Olayinka Clement
Olayinka Adeosun is an award-winning educator, technology integration specialist, and space education advocate revolutionizing learning in Nigeria. With a strong foundation in Technology Education, he designs groundbreaking programs that equip underserved youth with digital literacy, STEM expertise, and hands-on problem-solving skills—preparing them for a future driven by innovation.
As a Ban Ki-moon Global Citizen Scholar and Limitless Space Institute Ambassador, Olayinka brings the wonders of space exploration into classrooms, transforming curiosity into action and inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers, and changemakers. His mentorship has empowered thousands of students and educators, proving that education knows no limits—not even gravity.
Passionate about bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world impact, he is on a mission to cultivate future leaders who don’t just dream of the stars—they build the technology to reach them.
Ahmed Owda
Palestine
Ahmed Owda
Dr. Ahmed Owda, originally from Palestine and based in Saudia Arabia, is a medical doctor and a dedicated advocate for sustainable development and youth empowerment on the global stage. Holding refugee status under the Geneva Convention of 1951, Dr. Owda leverages his expertise and passion to drive impactful change across multiple domains.
He currently serves as the Advisor to the President of the United Nations Economic and Social (ECOSOC) for the ECOSOC Partnership Forum 2025, engaging with minsters of foreign affairs and permanent missions at the UN. Additionally, he is the Global Focal Point for the Sustainable Development Goal 12 within the Major Group for Children and Youth.
Dr. Owda’s extensive contributions to international climate action include serving as a Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) Youth Reviewer and as part of the national factsheet analysis team for UNFPA. He represented youth at COP27 as part of the UNFPA delegation and will do so again at COP28. Moreover, he mentored the SDG12 theme in the UNFCC Secretariat’s Climate Change Catalyst Programme and was part of the UNFCC delegation to COP29.
In his leadership roles within YOUNGO, the official youth constituency of the UNFCC, Dr. Owda was the co-contract point for the Action for Climate Empowerment (ACE) Working Group and YOUNGO’s liaison to the Paris Committee on Capacity Building of the UN Climate Change Secretariat. He also represented youth at the ACE Youth Hub and the ACE National Focal Point Academy during SB58. As part of the MENA Climate Week Coordination Team for YOUNGO, Dr. Owda has supported the UNFCC Secretariat in organizing Youth4Capacity sessions and has extended his collaboration across other regional climate weeks. He co-organized the 2023 ACE Youth Forum, which attracted nearly 1,000 participants globally.
Dr. Owda’s advocacy extends beyond climate action. He led the development of the Global Youth Declaration on Peace and Security and presented it to all permanent missions at the UN in New York and to the UN Secretary-General. He was selected by UN DESA to represent youth voices at the Climate and SDGs Synergies conference during the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) 2023 at the UN Headquarters in New York.
Dr. Owda is a graduate of the United Nations Staff System College on the Paris Agreement as a Development Agenda 2030 and Policy Coherence. Dr. Ahmed was nominated by UN Women the regional office of Arab states to be a part of the Swedish Minister of Environment Team and lead the Global Youth Policy as a member of the Youth Taskforce of Stockholm.
Alite Kudyazi Chiyangwa
Zimbabwe
Alite Kudzayi Chiyangwa
Alite Kudzayi Chiyangwa is a dedicated leader in sustainable development and waste management, currently spearheading the operations for the Highfield District Waste to Wealth Facility under UNHabitat.
In her role with the Zimbabwe Sunshine Group, Alite provides strategic direction for project site administration, focusing on building national capacities for gender-sensitive climate change responses, disaster management, and sustainable ecosystem management. She manages the Highfield district waste facility program team, ensuring quality control throughout the project lifecycle from formulation to implementation.
Alite has established and maintained strategic partnerships with the private sector, facilitating resource mobilization in collaboration with policy and management support teams. Her expertise extends to knowledge building, where she applies regional and international best practices in communication and resource mobilization.
A notable contributor to youth engagement in climate action, Alite authored and managed the UNDP Youth4Climate project, which focuses on urban sustainable waste-to-compost initiatives in Southern Zimbabwe. She has mentored young leaders in waste management and conducted training sessions in schools, promoting innovation in climate, energy, and environment through the 2Wise2Waste School Chapter.
Alite also played a pivotal role in coordinating the Africa Green Expo Regional Conference in Harare, showcasing her commitment to fostering community climate peace and conflict management. Through her diverse initiatives, Alite continues to inspire and empower communities towards a sustainable and prosperous future.
Amber Webb
United States of America
Amber Webb
Dr. Amber Webb has been a professional in international education for over 15 years and serves as the Managing Director of the SDG Academy at SDSN. In her role, she oversees the work of the education team, leads the development of new programs and partnerships, and advances the organizational mission to increase access to quality education for sustainable development. Prior to joining SDSN, Amber was the director of a humanitarian organization in Iraq assisting women and children who had been abducted by ISIS. In addition, she supported Barrister Amal Clooney and Nobel Laureate Nadia Murad as on the ground support for their case against ISIS. Amber has consulted on long-term projects for the U.S. Institute of Peace, Save the Children International, and the Office of the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights. She presently serves as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Maryland, teaching courses on education for global peace and international education policy. Amber holds a Master’s degree from Columbia University and a PhD from the University of Maryland.
Angelito Bisquiera
The Philippines
Angelito Bisquiera
Jello, a dedicated environmental planner and advocate for sustainable development, has been at the forefront of initiatives aimed at mitigating climate change and preserving natural resources. With a Bachelor’s degree in Forestry from the University of the Philippines Los Baños and subsequent diplomas and certifications in Land Use Planning and Climate-Energy, Jello has equipped themselves with a robust understanding of environmental dynamics.
Building on this foundation, Jello pursued a Master’s degree in Urban and Regional Planning with a specialization in Environmental Planning from the University of the Philippines Diliman, deepening his expertise in shaping sustainable urban landscapes. Throughout his academic journey, he demonstrated a commitment to learning and innovation, evident in his participation in numerous conferences, workshops, and training programs on topics ranging from geospatial infrastructure to climate finance.
Professionally, Jello has held pivotal roles in various organizations, including serving as a GIS Officer at the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, where he played a crucial role in mapping aquaculture production zones and supporting the development of aqua-industrial business corridors. Simultaneously, he is serving as a Program Manager for SDG 13: Climate Action with 2030 Youth Force in the Philippines, leading initiatives focused on renewable energy, sustainable transportation, and ecosystem conservation. Also, he is currently servings as an Executive Director at SAFE droplet Inc., where they spearheaded strategic planning efforts and oversaw the implementation of programs aimed at promoting environmental sustainability. His contributions have been instrumental in advancing evidence-based policy-making, fostering strategic partnerships, and advocating for inclusive climate action.
With a wealth of experience spanning technical consultancy, project management, and advocacy, Jello continues to be a driving force in the realm of environmental conservation and climate resilience. His dedication to building resilient ecosystems and empowering communities underscores his unwavering commitment to creating a more sustainable and equitable future for all.
Azeez Akanni Salawu
Nigeria
Azeez Akanni
Azeez Salawu is a Food System Development Practitioner and climate activist with broad experience in mobilizing the youth for climate action, food, and nutrition security, and sustainable development in Nigeria. He has robust experience in designing and implementing campaigns and advocacy tools. He has skills in change communication, social media campaigns, facilitation and moderation of training, dialogue, consultation, and learning sessions.
He is the Founder and Executive Director at Community Action for Food Security (CAFS), a registered not-for-profit organization committed to promoting a food-secure Africa through efforts that support sustainable agriculture and enhance livelihood. The organization also spearheads advocacy projects and awareness camapaigns in line with the realization of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, focusing on Goals 2, 8, 13, and 17. CAFS has positively impacted over 10,000 small-scale farmers, youth, and women across 10 states and 30 communities in Nigeria.
Azeez currently serves as a National Task team member for the Nigeria Food Systems Transformation Pathway, where he coordinates all the youth engagements with the National Convenor in Nigeria, an ambassador, at the CLIMATE Conference, Hamburg, Germany. He is also a Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Goalkeeper and co-lead Future Work Africa. He won the AfricaRica ATSAP-1 project Research Thesis Scholarship and the NYSC State Honors Award as FCT-Abuja’s Most Outstanding Corp member for embarking on Community Development Service Projects in 2017.
His commitment to climate advocacy was further strengthened by training under the former US Vice President Al Gore as Climate Reality Leader. He’s the Convener of the annual Food Security Future Summit; an alumnus of HOMEF School of Ecology; an Alumnus of Ban Ki-moon Youth Agri-Champion, a Member, of the FAO Global Frum on Food Security (VFS); Member, Agricultural Society of Nigeria, Nigerian Civil Society Framework on Paris Agreement and SDGs.
Azeez has participated in high-level discussions and negotiations both at the international and local levels on critical developmental issues on food and nutrition security, climate adaptation, youth inclusion and sustainable development. Azeez operated effectively at the governmental and policy levels as well as at the citizens and community levels. He has a Masters in Sustainable Crop Production.
Benedicta Weru Apuamah
Nigeria
Benedicta Weru
Benedicta Chukwuyem Apuamah is a Nigerian-trained pharmacist, global health expert, and passionate advocate for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). With over five years of program management experience, she has contributed to projects funded by The Global Fund and the CDC, collaborating with organizations such as Management Sciences for Health, the United Nations, and SOS Children’s Villages International.
In 2017 and 2018, Benedicta served as a ONE Champion, representing Nigeria and Africa at the ONE Youth Summit in Brussels, where her presentation earned a standing ovation from the then ONE.org CEO Gayle Smith. She further honed her leadership skills as the chairperson of the Reproductive Health Caucus at the Tanzania International Model UN in 2019 and was recognized as a delegate at the Global Engagement Summit in Chicago in 2020.
She earned her Master’s degree in International Health and Social Management with distinction in 2023 from the Management Center Innsbruck (MCI), supported by the Ban Ki-moon and One World (AAI Salzburg) Scholarships for her SDG advocacy. That same year, she interned with the UNODC HRMS team in Vienna, contributing to innovation projects.
In 2024, Benedicta won the Science Speed Talks Contest at the Geneva Health Forum for her outstanding public speaking skills. She is the founder of Girls for Development Goals Foundation, driving community health initiatives in Nigeria, and currently works at MCI as a Project Assistant with the Ulysseus European University Alliance team. Benedicta resides in Austria with her family and remains committed to creating lasting global impact.
He works with Cofarms Greenaid Revolution Ltd an organization that has worked with over 100,000 beneficiaries within the Agricultural value chain across 21 states in Nigeria and neighboring African countries, He is also a business Developer and has helped provide business development services directly to over 30 organizations.
In addition, he is a board member in several institutions and has work on several projects with international partners including: Mercy Corps, USAID (feed the Future), and GIZ, to mention a few. He is a Professional Project manager with several years of experiences of managing projects and also a certified business development service provider where he helped SMEs raised over $200m in capital for their various projects and consulted for the successful execution of the said projects.
Eliseus Bamporineza
Burundi
Eliseus Bamporineza
Eliseus Bamporineza, East African Community Youth fellow, writer and staunch advocate for youth empowerment, is a dedicated and visionary leader, committed to driving positive change in the fields of education, climate resilience, agribusiness and diplomacy across Africa.
He is one of the beneficiaries of the African Leadership Academy-MasterCard Foundation scholarship, awarded for his outstanding academic and leadership potential. Eliseus graduated with honours from the United States International University Africa based in Nairobi Kenya, where he earned a degree in International Relations and Integrated Studies in April 2023. Eliseus also earned a certificate in Entrepreneurship and Design – Thinking, after completing a rigorous six-month training with Aspire Leaders, founded at Harvard, as part of the 2022 cohort for first-generation university students.
His academic journey also includes an enriching exchange program at the University of Rochester, where he deepened his understanding of global issues through relevant courses such as Climate Diplomacy and Project Pitching.
Professionally, Eliseus has gained valuable experience through various internships and fellowships across Africa, including his work with the Alliance for Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), where he focused on youth and gender inclusiveness in advocacy and partnerships, and represented the youth team in the CAYACC for their proposal write-shop with MasterCard Foundation and at major events, including the Africa Fertilizer and Soil Health Summit, Africa Development Bank Annual Meetings, and the Second Regenerative Agriculture conference. His commitment to climate action is further reflected in his roles at the African Leadership Academy and his participation in the Ban Ki-moon Centre for Global Citizens’ Youth AgriChampions cohort, a program that enabled him alongside other innovative young minds from the grassroots world of smallholder agriculture to interact and express wishes for solutions and support about the challenges faced in the agricultural adaptation to climate change on the continent.
Emaan Danish Khan
Pakistan
Emaan Danish Khan
Emaan Danish Khan, founder of www.earthwarriorz.org, leads a visionary, award-winning platform dedicated to environmental activism and sustainability. She inspires individuals worldwide to become proactive stewards of the Earth, fostering a global community united in combating climate change, promoting biodiversity, and advocating for eco-friendly practices. Through innovative approaches blending technology and grassroots activism, Emaan empowers individuals to drive tangible, positive change. Her unwavering dedication to environmental conservation serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that each person has the potential to be a catalyst for a sustainable future.
Esther Kamasa
Kenya
Esther Kamasa
Esther Cherotich Kamasa is an environmental advocate and resource mobilization specialist with expertise in climate resilience, policy influence, and gender advocacy. She participated in the Youth AgriChampion Program at the Ban Ki-moon Centre, which propelled her into leadership training through the iLead Fellowship. She contributed to reviewing Kenya’s Climate Change (Carbon Trading) Regulation, 2024, She led her organization to join the National Environmental Civil Society Alliance, where she conducted social audits on natural resource management. She has been trained in Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), Environmental Audit (EA), and Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) to monitor government projects. She collaborates with Human Rights Defenders to advocate for fair carbon trading policies and protect marginalized groups. Passionate about gender justice, she actively defends women’s and girls’ rights. Recently, she served as a technical expert in Behavior Change Communication for the Kenya Livestock Commercialization Project, supporting smallholder farmers in adopting modern agricultural practices.
Ifeowula Ayeni
Nigeria
Ifeowula Ayeni
Ifeoluwa Ayeni is a youth and climate action specialist dedicated to driving systemic change through environmental education, technology, and sustainable development. With expertise in project and program management, she leads transformative climate initiatives that empower young people to become sustainability leaders and changemakers.
Passionate about climate action empowerment, she has spearheaded projects such as the African Youth for Environment Bootcamp, The Green Mentorship Project, and served as the Campus Leader Training Manager for the PlasticWize Fellowship, equipping youth with the knowledge, skills, and tools to build a more sustainable future. At the intersection of innovation, social development, and climate action, Ifeoluwa has led the development of innovative solutions that leverage gamification for systems change and project-based learning to drive real-world impact. Through her social enterprise, Recyfrica, she is mobilizing and equipping young Africans with educational opportunities and capacity-building programs that foster sustainable living and environmental leadership.
Recognized for her contributions to global sustainability efforts, Ifeoluwa is a 2024 Ban Ki-moon Global Citizen Scholar, a TheirWorld Global Youth Ambassador, and a member of the UNESCO Global Youth Community. Her ultimate mission is to bridge the gap between pressing environmental challenges and scalable, actionable solutions. By equipping young people with the right knowledge, skills, and tools, she is shaping the next generation of climate leaders and building a resilient, sustainable future for our planet.
Keiraa Ardian
Indonesia
Keiraa Ardian
Keiraa Ardian is a Marketing Assistant at Bee Well Indonesia, where she actively promotes wellness, health, and sustainability in schools. She also serves as an ambassador for the Ban Ki-moon Centre for Global Citizens and the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP), through which she has demonstrated environmental advocacy leadership by leading an SDG project, a public campaign, and conducting research.
Keiraa is an incoming student at the University of Ottawa, Canada, for Fall 2025. She previously graduated with honors in Art and Computer Science from Riffa Views International School in Bahrain and Bishop’s College School in Canada. Her diverse educational background has equipped her with key skills in social leadership and peace-building, supporting her ongoing commitment to sustainability and community development.
Kohtem Princil Samibit
Cameroon
Kohtem Princil Sambit
Kohtem is an enthusiastic and passionate youth and environmental activist with over seven years of experience. They are also a political and environmental TV analyst with more than five years of expertise in media commentary. As a lecturer, motivational speaker, public speaker, and debate coach, they bring a strong commitment to inspiring others and driving positive change. Known for their hard work, attention to detail, excellent organizational abilities, and strong communication skills, they are eager to contribute to team success across a variety of sectors.
They have a clear understanding of public law, environmental law, public policy, and leadership, with hands-on experience in field coordination, education, research, project implementation, and team leadership. With an optimistic and collaborative approach, they have volunteered with over five organizations, gaining significant experience in human resource management.
In 2022, they were recognized as the Cameroon Best Youth Project Initiator, further solidifying their reputation for innovation and leadership in youth development and environmental advocacy.
Areas of Competence:
- Leadership and Management
- Consulting and Analysis
- Field Coordination and Humanitarian Work
- Public Speaking
- Leadership and Volunteerism
- Advocacy and Resource Mobilization
- Sports for Social Cohesion and Peacebuilding
Komlan Abalo Braly
Togo
Komlan Abalo Braly
Komlan Abalo Braly is a passionate advocate for inclusive and quality education, with a strong focus on empowering youth, particularly women and girls, through Education for Sustainable Development. With over a decade of experience, he has worked on education strategies at regional and national levels, creating initiatives to support social innovation and sustainable development goals. Komlan has led impactful education projects, raised funds for transformative initiatives, and provided training on ethical research practices. He has held prestigious fellowships with the Ban Ki-moon Centre for Global Citizens, Impact Toolbox, and the Next Leaders Initiative for Sustainability, where he has mentored and guided the next generation of changemakers. Komlan is dedicated to fostering youth leadership and social entrepreneurship, helping young people develop skills that will drive positive change in their communities and beyond.
Lara Jean Salaysay
The Philippines
Lara Jean Salaysay
Lara is pioneering climate-aware career guidance. She is the co-founder of Green Economy Ready where they help jobseekers land green jobs and organisations recruit talent. Their first project is a toolkit to support career advocates in integrating green jobs in career guidance for Grades 10-12, funded by Youth4Climate. She has a decade of experience in education for sustainable development in formal and non-formal settings, working with the Philippine Department of Education, Asian Development Bank, and The Asia Foundation among others to mainstream meaningful youth engagement for climate action and democracy. Recently, she completed a Master of Environment and Sustainability specialising in Leadership for Sustainable Development with Distinction at Monash University with an Australia Awards Scholarship. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Education major in Social Sciences cum laude at the Philippine Normal University. She is a Climate Reality Leader, Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) Exchange Alumni, and Port Phillip EcoCentre Multicultural Ambassador.
Mock Yi Jun
Singapore
Mock Yi Jun
Mock Yi Jun is Co-Founder & President of Advisory Singapore, a fully youth-led charity dedicated to empowering young Singaporeans from all walks of life to make informed career and further education choices. Since 2016, Advisory Singapore has engaged over 278,000 students and youth through its online repository of interviews, learning journeys and industry panels with firms, and nationwide mentorship efforts. For his work, Yi Jun received the Queen’s Young Leaders Award, the Diana Award, was named to the Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia list in the Social Impact category, and was named a Generation17 Young Leader by UNDP and Samsung.
Plangan Damshakal
Nigeria
Plangan Damshakal
Plangnan is a Team Lead , Researcher/Monitoring and evaluation (M&E) consultant and with five years of experience working in non-profit organizations such as Mercycorps, Harvestplus, Health Systems Diagnostic Centre (HSDC)360, Advokc Foundation, and Ecofriendly Africa Initiative, contributing as a consultant and a volunteer. Her engagements span projects related to climate change, Peace and Security Nexus conflict, Agriculture, and Energy. Holding a BSc in Geography and an MSc in Remote Sensing and GIS from Ahmadu Bello University, Nigeria, she achieved notable success with her MSc thesis addressing energy insecurity in the Sahel region, securing three prestigious scholarships, including the Petroleum Development Technology Fund (PTDF) and Federal Scholarship for Outstanding Students.
As the Founder/Executive Director of Ecofriendly Africa Initiative (EFAI), Plangnan leads a rapidly growing and diverse team of 100+ young individuals from 43 African countries virtually, expanding the network by over 500% in 3+ years. EFAI, founded with the mission of advocating for climate justice and amplifying the voices of vulnerable communities in the face of climate change and conflict, has won her several notable international leadership fellowships including the Ban ki Moon fellowship for young women leaders in climate adaptation, True Africa University Fellowship for young women climate activist, Edkins Max Thabison Climate fellowship, student energy fellowship.
Her recent project, the Masterclass on Environmental Journalism, Storytelling, and Education, aimed at building the capacity of climate communicators in the frontline of advocacy in Africa. Spanning 3 cohorts, this initiative which attracted 1139 applications from 43 countries, resulted in several award-winning positive stories and an average 200% increase in knowledge and skills in climate communication among the remaining participants.
Shomy Chowdhury
Bangladesh
Shomy Chowdhury
Shomy Hasan Chowdhury is an award-winning Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) activist from Bangladesh, and the Co-Founder of the global non-profit Awareness 360. She is a development professional with 15+ years of experience in community development. Her notable recognitions include Forbes 30 Under 30, President’s Volunteer Service Award (Gold) by President Barack Obama, Putra Icon Award, and The Diana Legacy Award. She is also the first and only Bangladeshi to sit on the 2021 Diana Legacy Award Judging Panel, a high-level Judge of the UN SDG Action Awards, Global Citizen Advocate, Asia Pacific’s first Samsung Global-UNDP Generation17 Young Leader, McCain Global Leader, Specialist Mentor for the CEE initiative of the US State Department, International Election Observer and sits on leadership & advisory positions of multiple international organizations. Shomy holds a Master’s in Global Affairs from Tsinghua University in Beijing, China, as a Schwarzman Scholar, one of the most competitive graduate scholarships in the world. She is also an internationally renowned public speaker, who regularly addresses keynotes and has already inspired millions in over 50 countries across 6 continents. She has spoken at and been seen on the United Nations, The White House, Kensington Palace, BBC, MSNBC, TEDx, Nasdaq, Forbes, Hello!, Humans of Kuala Lumpur, and many more.
Venacious Rupiah Tembo
Zambia
Venacious Rupiah Tembo
Venacious Rupiah Tembo is an experienced Agribusiness Specialist and the current Project Marketing Officer at ADRA Zambia. With a passion for innovation and sustainable development, Venacious has made significant strides in the agribusiness sector by leading projects that enhance market access and promote inclusive trade for MSMEs.
He has successfully developed and implemented a market systems analysis (MSA) for agricultural value chains, identifying scalable opportunities that increased revenue for over 200 MSMEs. Venacious has also managed offtake agreements and buyer-seller contracts, facilitating more than $2M in trade agreements, and designed a training program that improved the business strategy, operations, and financial management skills of 150+ entrepreneurs across Southern Africa.
In addition, Venacious scaled climate-smart technologies to 5,000 smallholder farmers, boosting productivity by 30%. He also enhanced agribusiness profitability by 20% through improved access to quality agricultural inputs and market linkages. Furthermore, he led a capacity-building program that trained over 100 agri-entrepreneurs in advanced farming techniques, contributing to a 20% increase in production efficiency.
Venacious holds a degree from Rusangu University (graduated in 2022) and completed his secondary education at St. Mark’s Secondary School in 2015. His passion for agripreneurship aligns with his professional role, where he combines creativity, financial expertise, and strategic insights to create sustainable, successful agribusiness ventures.
Guided by his values of sustainability, innovation, and community empowerment, Venacious is committed to transforming agricultural practices, fostering economic growth, and driving positive change in the industry.
Virendra Rawat
India
Virendra Rawat
Dr. Virendra Rawat is a globally recognized leader in green education. He is unwaveringly committed to advancing climate-conscious and sustainability-focused learning frameworks. Since 2010, he has led a groundbreaking movement to transform over 5,000 schools and universities worldwide into eco-friendly institutions, emphasizing sustainability, innovation, and leadership. Dr. Rawat holds a Ph.D. in Education from Arni University, India, and founded Green Mentors, an international organization that empowers educational institutions to adopt sustainable practices.
Green Mentors have a global reach, with offices in New York, USA and Ahmedabad, India. Under his leadership, the organization is dedicated to promoting educational sustainability, supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and advancing environmentally responsible practices in schools and universities
His role extends to representing Green Mentors at the United Nations Economic and Social Council, where he actively contributes to global discussions on sustainability in education.
He also serves as a working group member for the Greening Schools of the Greenign Education partnership of UNESCO. He is dedicated to influencing international education standards to reflect sustainable development needs.
Yakub Abdulfatai Olatunji
Nigeria
Yakub Abdulfatai
Yakub Abdulfatai Olatunji is a renewable energy expert, and social entrepreneur dedicated to advancing sustainable solutions in the energy and agricultural sectors. He is the founder of GreenFiits, a sustainability-focused social enterprise that integrates renewable energy and climate-smart technologies into agribusiness to promote food security, youth empowerment, and environmental conservation.
Through GreenFiits, he has led impactful projects, including a UNDP-supported initiative that focuses on integrating renewable energy solutions into agricultural systems to enhance productivity and resilience against climate change. One of their flagship projects, the Green Aquaculture Project, utilizes solar-powered water management and sustainable fish farming techniques to develop eco-friendly and efficient aquaculture systems. These initiatives align with his mission to bridge the gap between clean energy and sustainable agriculture.
Yakub holds a Master of Engineering in Convergence and Fusion Systems from Kyungpook National University, South Korea, where he specialized in hybrid renewable energy system optimization, and a Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical and Electronics from the University of Ilorin, Nigeria. His expertise spans renewable energy transition policy, smart grid optimization, and PV system integration, with professional experience in power system design, energy efficiency projects, and grid-connected PV system analysis. Currently, he is pursuing a Ph.D. at Kyungpook National University, specializing in optimizing renewable energy systems and climate finance, while also working at the Institute for Global Climate and Energy, where he contributes to research on sustainable energy solutions, climate policy, and green finance strategies to enhance the scalability of clean energy technologies.
Testimonials by 2024 “Your Future in Green Jobs” Mentees
on their experiences during the six-month Mentorship program
Emaan Danish Khan (Pakistan)
The ‘Your Future in Green Jobs’ program gave me the clarity and tools to align my passion with purpose. It helped me strengthen EarthWarriorz.org with a clearer vision and strategy. I gained practical insights into sustainable career paths and climate entrepreneurship. This experience empowered me to lead with greater impact and confidence.
Daniel Persky (USA)
The BKMC Green Jobs Mentorship Program has been a truly transformative experience. This program not only educates youth but empowers them to create change in the world. The novel concept of SDG Micro-Projects promotes small, actionable steps towards sizable impact in each mentee’s community. This program has supported and launched initiatives targeting a wide range of UN Sustainable Development Goals, fostering global change through a diverse group of mentees.
“Your Future in Green Jobs” Alumni
Boxun An
Calviona Nsiku
Cosmas Mandikonza
Daniel Persky
Denise Nabasirye
Duurenbileg Lkhanaa
Emaan Danish
Fardeen Blaq
Hamza Sadaqat
Jessie Faith Thewo
Ji-Ho Lee
Kabir Pasricha
Keiraa Ardian
Kwanyoung Park
Lateefa Alnoaimi
Minseo Kim
Muhammad Nuhael Kabir
Raisya Azka
Reginald Yaw Ansu-Koranteng
Sorkhugtani Bolor
Syeda Rahma Mashhadi
Ved Solanke
Yusuf Sani
