From June 24, 2024, participants of Cohort IV at the Nairobi Summer School on Climate Justice (NSSCJ) have been immersed in a rigorous and transformative training program. The goal of NSSCJ-IV is to equip young climate advocates with the knowledge, skills, and networks needed to drive effective climate action and promote climate justice on both local and global scales. Participants have navigated through various modules covering critical topics such as climate justice advocacy, sustainable development, community engagement, policy analysis, and strategic planning.
During the process, alumni of past cohorts took the stage to share the impact of the Nairobi Summer School on Climate Justice and the difference they are making in their communities by leading climate action. Ms. Shampi Anna and Mr. Tanui Dominic, both alumni of Cohort III, provided particularly inspiring insights.
Shampi Anna, a Programs Coordinator at Eco Rafiki Africa, located at Moyale, at Northeastern of Kenya, uses storytelling and healing circles to address climate issues in Northern Kenya. “The training at NSSCJ opened my eyes to the power of narrative in driving change. By sharing our stories, we can connect on a deeper level and inspire collective action for environmental sustainability,” she shared. Shampi engages diverse stakeholders effectively, amplifying her advocacy work, which also includes championing environmental sustainability in digital communication through the National Coalition on Content Moderation and Freedom of Expression in the social media for Peace project.
Tanui Dominic, the chairperson of the Kobujoi Community Forest Association, from Nandi County, highlighted his leadership journey and the profound impact of NSSCJ training. Since 2022, he has been a staunch advocate for sustainable forest conservation, collaborating with the Kenya Forest Service.
“The training I received at NSSCJ equipped me with the skills and knowledge to effectively manage and lead our community forest initiatives. It has empowered us to create sustainable livelihoods and promote environmental stewardship,” Tanui noted. He spoke about the association’s success in engaging various user groups, particularly the bamboo farmers, who have benefited from technical capacity building in bamboo value addition. Their participation in significant events, like the 23rd East African Trade Fair in Bujumbura, Burundi, has provided valuable platforms for showcasing their work.
Cohort IV comprises 300 participants from 87 countries, bringing a diverse range of perspectives and experiences to the program. These participants are poised to become the next generation of climate justice leaders.
