The We Are Nature: Youth Biodiversity Challenge is a global initiative designed to position youth at the forefront of biodiversity conservation. By empowering young individuals to learn, collaborate and take tangible action, the challenge aims to address the urgent issue of biodiversity loss and foster environmental stewardship among the next generation.
Significance of the Challenge
- Biodiversity Crisis: The planet is experiencing accelerated biodiversity loss due to factors such as climate change, habitat destruction and pollution.
- Global Goals: The Global Biodiversity Framework targets halting and reversing biodiversity loss by 2030, with the broader vision of achieving harmony with nature by 2050.
- Youth Engagement: The challenge specifically focuses on giving young people an active role in conservation, moving beyond awareness to direct action.
Participation Details
Eligibility: Youth aged 18–35 residing in Kenya or South Africa.
Languages Supported: English and Swahili.
Launch Sites: Initiatives have commenced in Nakuru, Nairobi and additional regions within Kenya and South Africa.
Partners: Key organizations involved include the Kenya Youth Biodiversity Network (KYBN), African Wildlife Foundation (AWF) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
How the Challenge Operates
1. Access: Use the following link to initiate contact via WhatsApp here.
2. Interaction: Send a greeting (“Hey”) to the Nature Buddy chatbot.
3. Guidance: Follow the chatbot’s prompts to engage with the program.
Participant Benefits:
- Educational Modules: Interactive resources on biodiversity and conservation.
- Practical Challenges: Activities designed to apply and test knowledge.
- Community Collaboration: Opportunities to connect and collaborate with peers.
- Local Action Guidance: Information on actionable steps within local communities.
Youth Leadership and Impact
Kevin Lunzalu (KYBN Cofounder): Emphasizes the significance of youth leadership, noting that young people constitute 75% of Kenya’s population and are disproportionately affected by environmental issues.
Esther Maina (National Coordinator): Highlights the necessity of collective responsibility and innovative solutions driven by youth.
Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals:
Key SDGs Addressed:
- SDG 13: Climate Action
- SDG 14: Life Below Water
- SDG 15: Life on Land
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
Ongoing Initiatives and Outcomes
African Wildlife Foundation’s Contributions:
Youth Engagement: Active involvement with youth across Kenya, including regions such as Tsavo, Kajiado, Taita Taveta, Kilifi, and Kwale.
Activities: Programs include wildlife clubs, scholarships, leadership fellowships and community-based conservation projects.
Examples of Youth Action:
Environmental Issues Addressed: Efforts targeting plastic pollution, ecosystem restoration and other local challenges, demonstrating the capacity of youth to drive meaningful change.
Why Participate
Skill Development: Gain practical knowledge and leadership experience in environmental stewardship.
Community Impact: Contribute directly to conservation efforts and sustainable development.
Empowerment: Take an active role in shaping a sustainable future rather than remaining passive.
