Times Of Swaziland: THE EARTHSHOT PRIZE THE EARTHSHOT PRIZE ================================================================================ Zandisile Howe on 19/09/2024 07:33:00 This year, the Earthshot Prize Youth Programme is set to take place in Cape Town, South Africa, from November 3 to 7, 2024. The Earthshot Prize, launched in 2020 by Prince William, is one of the most prestigious global environmental awards, aimed at finding and scaling solutions to the planet’s most urgent environmental challenges. This great event will bring together young innovators from across the globe to come together and address the environmental crises. As Eswatini’s youth face climate change, youth unemployment and more, this is an unmissable opportunity to learn, grow and make a difference. The programme is aligned with the values of youth empowerment, climate resilience and innovation, which are key factors for the future development of Eswatini and Africa as a whole. Why Eswatini’s youth should participate? As youth from Eswatini, like our peers worldwide, we have a crucial role to play in shaping the future of environmental sustainability. Participation in the Earthshot Prize Youth Programme will give us access to resources, networks and skills development in areas critical to tackling issues such as waste management, renewable energy and biodiversity conservation challenges that Eswatini faces on a local scale. One of the primary benefits for young people in Eswatini is the chance to connect with global leaders and change makers who are at the forefront of the environmental movement. The exchange of ideas and experiences with peers and experts from other countries could spark new, localised solutions for addressing the climate crisis back home. Furthermore, we can be ambassadors for our country, showcasing local projects and initiatives we are already doing, while learning from others in similar situations across the globe. The skills and knowledge gained from this programme will empower us to take leadership roles in our communities, advocacy for improved and relevant policy changes, leading projects and inspiring others to join the fight against climate change. As Eswatini works toward a greener, more sustainable future, the insights from the Earthshot Prize Youth Programme will be invaluable in achieving this vision. How to get involved The Earthshot Prize Youth Programme is open to young people aged 18 to 35 with a passion for the environment. To join, participants from Eswatini can apply online by submitting an application that highlights their environmental work and aspirations for the future. It’s vital to emphasise how you have already made an impact in your community, whether through leading projects, volunteering or raising awareness about environmental sustainability. A strong application will focus on your commitment to making a broader impact, which aligns with the programme’s goals. Selected participants will benefit from mentorship by environmental experts, access to global networks and attendance at the Earthshot Prize Awards Ceremony. The ceremony is a major event in global environmentalism, where the groundbreaking work of Earthshot Prize winners is recognised. The mentorship and resources provided through this programme could be the key to scaling your environmental projects or starting new ones. Learning from African Champions with Nomzamo Mbatha One of the most inspiring aspects of this year’s programme is the involvement of South African actress and United Nations (UN) Goodwill Ambassador Nomzamo Mbatha. She has been actively hosting Instagram Live sessions featuring past African participants of the Earthshot Prize. These interviews are invaluable for young people, as they provide insights into how these champions created impactful solutions to environmental challenges. For anyone aspiring to be part of the Earthshot Prize Youth Programme, watching these interviews is a must. They offer lessons on navigating challenges, leveraging local knowledge and creating scalable solutions that benefit not only your community, but also the wider world. By learning from these successful individuals, Eswatini’s youth can be better prepared to address the unique environmental issues faced in our own country. Challenges Mbatha’s involvement makes the Earthshot Prize feel especially relevant for African youth, showing that young leaders from the continent can be at the forefront of global environmental solutions. Her interviews highlight that while Africa faces significant challenges, it is also brimming with potential, innovation and creativity that can drive environmental change. The Earthshot Prize Youth Programme is a transformative experience that will equip young people with the tools, networks and inspiration needed to create real, lasting environmental change. For Eswatini’s youth, it offers a chance to gain global exposure, develop leadership skills and bring home actionable ideas to address local challenges. As the climate crisis continues, youth involvement in solutions is more crucial than ever. The Earthshot Prize Youth Programme offers an exciting and practical way for young people to be part of that solution. Don’t miss this chance to take part in something truly global, impactful and future-focused. This is more than just a programme—it’s an opportunity to be part of the generation that helps restore our planet and shape a sustainable future. If you’re a young change maker from Eswatini, apply today and take your place among the world’s future environmental leaders!