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Congo/ Belgium PhD researcher Key achievements:
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What was your “climate wake-up call”? |
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My climate wake-up call came in July 2021, during the devastating floods in Western Europe, particularly in my neighbourhood in Belgium. Seeing the destruction first-hand made climate change real for me and moved me from concern to action, reinforcing my commitment to solutions that address its root causes.
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Can you tell us about a specific campaign or project you are most proud of? What was your strategy, and what was the outcome? |
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The project I’m most proud of is my work on energy poverty and advocating for renewable energy and equity in the energy transition. It’s meaningful because it combines climate policy and social justice. My strategy has been to show that a sustainable transition must also be inclusive. This work has helped raise awareness among policymakers about the importance of integrating equity into climate and energy policy.
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What do you believe is the most powerful tool young people have in the fight for climate action? |
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I believe the most powerful tool young people have in the fight for climate action is engaged, evidence-based advocacy. Young people can combine research, community engagement, and policy dialogue to push for meaningful change.
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How do you respond to people who dismiss young activists by saying they are “too idealistic” or “inexperienced”? |
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I respond by pointing out that young people are often dismissed as “too idealistic” or “inexperienced” simply because they are assumed not to understand the complexities of global transitions. In reality, young activists live through these challenges and experience their impacts first-hand. They are deeply connected to the needs and concerns of their peers and broader communities, which puts them in a unique position to ensure that a huge part of the population is heard and considered in climate and policy decisions. Their perspective is not only valid—it’s essential.
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For the older generations watching this who want to help: What is the most meaningful way they can support your work? |
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The most meaningful way older generations can support our work is by giving visibility to it. In any industry or field, there’s always a way to connect what you do to climate action and social justice. By highlighting our efforts, sharing our insights, and creating opportunities for collaboration, they can help amplify the impact of initiatives that address both environmental and equity challenges.
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