Hi, my name is Mbali Radebe, and I consider myself a change maker, poet, content creator, radio presenter, and aspiring project manager.
I joined Ubuntu Hub in September 2022, and the project has had a significant impact on my growth, both in my interpersonal skills and in my career. As an aspiring project manager, I had the opportunity to collaborate with innovative and brilliant minds towards a common goal. I learned more about the importance of environmental care and mutual support, experienced the power of learning by doing, and, most importantly, had the chance to bring my ideas to life.
One of the standout moments during my time at Ubuntu Hub was the photography workshop held at Braamfontein with “We Are,” featuring Lee-Roy Jason, one of South Africa’s top photographers, as one of the speakers. Following this workshop, Lee-Roy Jason welcomed me as a member of his photography team. This led to photography opportunities on major stages, capturing household names in the South African entertainment industry, and securing collaborations with renowned brands.
Another profoundly impactful event at Ubuntu Hub was “Make Something Week,” held in Braamfontein with a surprise trip to Tembisa. This week-long initiative taught me that anything is possible through collaboration, a willingness to learn and teach, and by gathering the right resources. I gained insights into upcycling and the consequences of consumerism. Being part of the team that orchestrated the entire process, from planning to execution, was an enriching experience, and our team spirit remained strong throughout.
What story are you willing to tell in your future? In a world filled with climate anxiety, our feelings, uncertainties, and loss of control are sometimes considered void. It’s easy to feel helpless, but it’s not okay not to care. Growing up as a child, traditional medication was the best cure for minor aches, illnesses, and mental health issues plaguing our communities currently. If not for biodiversity health’s sake, at least let’s do it for humanity. Forest inhabitants deserve shelter that man destroys and exploits without remedy for future generations to come. Here’s a brief account of my journey as a climate justice activist.
Did you know? Every time we open social media, more than half of the world is connected. Television news is bombarded by environmental disasters and our forests are menaced by wildfires, drought, pollution, and invasive species.
Oh, I remember! Growing up in the Grassfields area of Cameroon, in the beautiful, spacious, and evergreen vegetation along the Donga Mantung Plateau, was the best experience of my life. Indigenous people and local communities knew how to deal with hunger, illnesses, and when to plant agricultural products. All this was possible due to the presence of our forest, but today I bleed because these features are fading away.
But here’s the catch: I do remember the forest was the only rich heritage we had. From one generation to the other, they acknowledged its health, food, and security benefits; even the animals rely on it for livelihood. Sadly, I lack words to further explain what we have done and where we have fallen today.
The World Day of Forest brings a lot of nostalgic feelings to many Africans, and I hope even you reading this. Please pause for a minute and reflect deeply. Ask yourself the question: “What have we done to our forest & environment?”
Our actions matter, and we should avoid being eco-paralytic. We do not need a diploma to act. What I do is support organizations working for forest conservation, sensitize my communities on eco-friendly methods, or plant more trees locally.
Even when centuries pass, our works will be remembered. You really just need to care. So, I’m starting with the person in the mirror—that’s you. And as Theodore Roosevelt said, “Nobody cares how much you know until they know how much you care.”
By
Kutloano Ramotshela —
Johannseburg, South Africa
As we mark another Earth Day, the urgency of addressing climate change has never been clearer. From rising temperatures to extreme weather events, the impacts of climate change are being felt around the world. In this pivotal moment, it is essential to harness the creativity and innovation of young people to drive climate advocacy and propel meaningful action. In this blog, we will explore the role of youth innovation and creativity at Ubuntu Hub in promoting climate advocacy, and how their fresh perspectives can inspire transformative change.
Young people possess a unique ability to think outside the box, challenge the status quo, and envision a better future. Their fresh creative perspectives, coupled with their proficiency in technology and social media, make them powerful agents of change in the fight against climate change. By harnessing their creativity and innovation through art, we can unlock new solutions to address the complex challenges posed by climate change and accelerate progress towards a more sustainable world.
Art has long been a powerful tool for raising awareness and inspiring action on social and environmental issues. Through visual arts, music, poetry, and other forms of creative expression, young artists at Ubuntu Hub are shining a spotlight on the impacts of climate change and calling for urgent action. Whether it is through powerful murals, thought-provoking poems, or stirring music performances, art can convey the urgency of the climate crisis in ways that resonate deeply with people of all ages.
Moreover, education is key to empowering young people to become effective advocates for climate action. By integrating climate ideologies, sustainability, and environmental justice into Ubuntu Hub programs, we equip youth with the knowledge, skills, and values they need to understand the complexities of climate change and engage in meaningful advocacy efforts. Hands-on learning experiences, training programs, and workshops, and youth-led initiatives are invaluable in nurturing the next generation of climate leaders.
As we celebrate Earth Day and reflect on the state of our planet, let us harness the power of youth innovation and creativity to drive climate advocacy and accelerate progress towards a sustainable future. By empowering young people to use their voices, talents, and ideas to advocate for climate action, we can inspire transformative change and build a more resilient world for generations to come. Together, let us stand with youth around the world and commit to taking bold and decisive action to address the climate crisis.
By
Da Concesao Cumaio —
Johannseburg, South Africa
Pollution, climate change, and injustices are all pressing issues that our planet faces today. These problems not only affect the environment but also have severe consequences for human health and well-being. As inhabitants of this planet, it is our responsibility to take action and address these challenges before it’s too late.
The Earth is a beautiful and diverse planet that has been home to millions of species for billions of years. However, in the recent past, human activities have caused significant damage to the environment. The constant exploitation of natural resources, excessive use of fossil fuels, and improper waste management have all contributed to pollution and climate change.
Pollution is the contamination of our air, water, and soil by harmful substances. It comes in various forms, from plastic waste littering our oceans to toxic chemicals released from factories and vehicles. The impact of pollution is widespread, affecting not only the environment but also human health. The World Health Organization estimates that around 7 million people die prematurely each year due to air pollution alone.
Climate change, on the other hand, refers to the long-term changes in temperature, weather patterns, and sea levels caused by greenhouse gas emissions. The burning of fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and gas releases these gases into the atmosphere, trapping heat and causing the Earth’s temperature to rise. This increase in temperature leads to extreme weather events like hurricanes, droughts, and floods, disrupting ecosystems and endangering human lives.
In addition to pollution and climate change, there are also numerous injustices happening on our planet. These injustices include environmental racism, where marginalized communities are disproportionately affected by pollution and environmental hazards due to their socioeconomic status. There is also the issue of environmental colonialism, where developed countries exploit the resources of developing countries without considering the impact on their environment or the well-being of the local communities.
So why does Earth matter? The answer is simple: because our planet is our only home, and we need to take care of it for ourselves and future generations. We cannot continue to ignore the consequences of our actions and turn a blind eye to the damage being done to our environment. We must take action now to address these issues and make a positive impact on our planet.
Taking action against pollution, climate change, and injustices on our planet may seem like a daunting task, but there are many ways that we can all contribute to making a difference. Here are some simple steps that we can take:
1. Reduce, reuse, recycle: The first step towards reducing pollution is to reduce the amount of waste we produce. By practicing the 3Rs – reduce, reuse, recycle – we can decrease the amount of garbage that ends up in landfills and pollutes our environment.
2. Conserve energy: We can all play a part in reducing our carbon footprint by conserving energy. This includes turning off lights and electronics when not in use, using public transportation or carpooling, and opting for renewable energy sources like solar or wind power.
3. Support sustainable practices: When making purchases, choose products from companies that prioritize sustainability and ethical practices. This will help reduce the demand for products that harm the environment and support businesses that are actively trying to make a positive impact.
4. Educate yourself and others: Knowledge is power, and by educating ourselves and others about pollution, climate change, and injustices on our planet, we can raise awareness and inspire action.
5. Advocate for change: Use your voice to speak up for the environment. Write to your local representatives or participate in peaceful protests to demand action against pollution and climate change. By coming together as a community, we can make a stronger impact.
It’s not just individuals who need to take action; governments and corporations also have a crucial role to play in protecting our planet. We need policies and regulations that promote sustainable practices, reduce emissions, and hold polluters accountable for their actions. We also need corporations to take responsibility for their impact on the environment and work towards more sustainable and ethical practices.
We are already seeing the effects of our actions on our planet. The rise in global temperatures, the increase in extreme weather events, and the decline of biodiversity are all signs that we need to act now. If we continue on our current path, the consequences will be irreversible and devastating.
By taking action now, we can still make a positive impact on our planet. We can work towards a future where clean air, clean water, and a healthy environment are accessible to all. We can create a more equitable and just society where everyone has equal access to environmental resources and protection.
In conclusion, Earth matters because it is our home, and we have a responsibility to take care of it. Pollution, climate change, and injustices are critical issues that we cannot afford to ignore any longer. It’s time for us to step up and make a positive change for our planet. Let’s come together, educate ourselves and others, and take action towards a more sustainable and just future for all. Our Earth matters; let’s make sure we treat it that way.
By DA CONCESAO CUMAIO also known as (jaysteeze thelazy.poet)
All photos belong to Ubuntu Hub, taken during their Earth Week 2024 activities
Plastics pervades our existence! From habitats to bodies, driven by profit, disproportionately impacting poor nations through waste colonialism. Plastic production is in fact a human rights violation since the people and the most marginalized communities who have contributed the least to the escalating planetary crisis are affected the most.
Did you know that over 99% of plastics are made of fossil fuels? Petrochemical companies promote plastics as cheap, but their true cost includes biodiversity loss, human health risks, and climate impact.
The United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) has started to negotiate on a legally binding plastic treaty that will include the whole life-cycle of plastic. However we demand that this treaty involves the most marginalized communities in the decision making process, to ensure that their health and safety are prioritized over plastic pollution.
So the simple answer to why we need to talk about plastic is: it can never be a part of a sustainable and just development. Companies try to greenwash by stating that plastic and planetary wellbeing can be combined – but that couldn’t be further from the truth.
We demand policies that prioritize the health and safety of communities and wellbeing of the planet and future generations over the profit of petrochemical companies.
Support the planet in the battle against plastics by signing this petition for a strong Global Plastics Treaty!
And – go out on the streets and organize yourself because we are the change!
Join us at Planet One, a vibrant community for the global youth movement striving for climate justice. Our makerspaces foster hands-on learning and activism for a sustainable future and operate in six countries: Hungary, South Africa, Kenya, Sweden, Cameroon, and Armenia, empowering the next generation to become catalysts for change. As part of our collaborative effort between Fryshuset and Greenpeace, you can bring your own creativity and contribute to our ongoing projects, amplifying youth voices worldwide. Together, let’s shape a greener, more equitable planet!
The volunteer will be part of the global team of Planet One and will be based at Fryshuset in Stockholm, Sweden. The main responsibility will be to support with editing, graphic design and, if possible, also illustrations, both for social media content and for an online handbook that will be developed during the year.
ACCOMMODATION, FOOD AND TRANSPORT ARRANGEMENTS
All costs are covered by the European Solidarity Corps program, including travel costs to Stockholm, Sweden. Accommodation will be provided by Fryshuset and pocket money to cover food, local transportation, etc., will be transferred monthly to the bank account of the volunteer.
TRAINING DURING THE ACTIVITY
Volunteers will receive two trainings organized by the Swedish National Agency: on-arrival and mid-term training. Additional trainings organized by Planet One or Fryshuset may be available.
PARTICIPANT PROFILE
We are seeking a volunteer (between 18-30 years old) with a passion for climate action and a drive for change, who possesses a range of creative skills and digital expertise to contribute to our team. We prefer candidates who have: Knowledge in graphic design, particularly with Adobe programs such as Photoshop and InDesign Experience of making illustrations Experience of video and photo editing If possible, knowledge of WordPress Additionally, familiarity with social media platforms such as YouTube and TikTok would be advantageous. You are encouraged to submit a portfolio.
ACTIVITY DATES
A total of 52 week(s) during the period 22/04/2024 to 21/04/2025
“Arriving in the city of Johannesburg for the first time to attend an audition at Ubuntu Hub turned my life around.”
Meet Karabo Blake Seretsi, a 19-year-old from a small town in the North West province of South Africa. She grew up as an odd one out at home, school, and in the community, with a deep anxiety about talking or meeting people. Blake immersed herself in church activities, and spending time alone became her solace. This reclusive personality persisted until her parents convinced her to join sports at school, and she decided to be part of the hockey team, where she excelled and felt confidence in herself for the first time.
This newfound self-worth was shattered when her parents separated in 2020, and she had to move to the Gauteng Province with her mother, which also meant changing schools. This move coincided with the global lockdowns due to the COVID-19 pandemic. She only got to attend her new school for two months before staying at home. This led to a relapse in her childhood personality disorders, and she was ultimately diagnosed with manic depression and generalized anxiety, requiring admission to a psychiatric hospital.
As time passed, her journey to recovery began, and in 2023 she met a new friend who sent her a text inviting her to Johannesburg for an audition for the Leak fashion show at Ubuntu Hub. She arrived in Johannesburg for the first time. “I had never heard of Ubuntu Hub before, but when I arrived, I was warmly welcomed by friendly faces and voices. The Ubuntu Hub staff explained the project to the audition group, and I really felt at home, like I had found a home.”
After the auditions, she was invited to be part of the 100 Movement, an NGO modeling agency that harnesses the talents of young and aspiring models without charging a fee. Then, Ubuntu Hub hosted Make Something Week, where she volunteered to be an MC for the musical show “a dream I always had.”
During the Make Something Week musical show, a TV producer was part of the audience and spotted her amazing talent, offering her her first job as a TV presenter for a show called Lyrics Debunked. “Ubuntu Hub has become a safe space for me and has opened up opportunities that I never thought possible for me.”
Story provided by Ubuntu Hub, Johannesburg, South Africa
Each generation has the duty to take positive action to address existing challenges. Mother Earth is suffering from biodiversity loss, plastic pollution, air and water pollution, soil degradation, deforestation, as well as an increased production of waste. Unfortunately, not everyone across the globe faces these problems equally. Among the sustainable proposed solutions, MAKE SMTHNG emerges as a tool to achieve Zero Waste. However, can MAKE SMTHNG work effectively for developing countries?
Mboa Hub with its team during Make SMTHNG Week in November, 2023
MAKE SMTHNG is a worldwide festival where everyone, everywhere repairs, shares, and reuses instead of consuming, as a way to counteract hyper-consumerism. It aims to develop creativity, empower people to reuse more, and encourage conscious consumption. The ultimate idea here is to promote financial stability for those who are extravagant buyers.
In a developing country like Cameroon, few people can afford the luxury of excessive consumption. At this level, MAKE SMTHNG may not seem relevant. However, if the focus is shifted to specific types of waste, such as plastic or organic waste, then MAKE SMTHNG will take on its full meaning, especially as a tool to achieve Zero Waste.
This is exactly what happened at the University of Yaoundé 2- Soa years ago, where I discovered MAKE SMTHNG for the first time under the auspices of Planet One. Together with Greenpeace Africa volunteers, we celebrated MAKE SMTHNG WEEK. Young students and volunteers expressed their innovative skills by creating flower jars, jewelry, drums, decorative arts, and many others. Inspired by this experience, I decided to share these innovative activities with secondary school students through the organization of an inter-school competition, where winners were awarded prizes.
For the celebration of International Zero Waste 2024, I intend to draw inspiration from MAKE SMTHNG tactics to reduce waste production in my community and in Cameroon as a whole, through innovation and education.
Written byMache Dolorès, Mboa Hub, Yaoundé, Cameroon
A few youths climbed over a fence and pulled up a ladder. The sunbeams hit the blue sky, and the wind was still. One after another, they climbed onto a big oil truck and pulled out a large banner that read, “Oil and fossil fuel are killing current and future generations.”
Olga, a youth climate activist, began her engagement in the newly built movement called “Reclaim the Future.” The purpose behind the movement is to use peaceful civil disobedience and direct action to highlight the urgent triple planetary crisis. Reclaim the Future describes itself as a movement by young people, for young people—a radical community committed to taking care of each other and peacefully standing against the industries that threaten our chances for life: the fossil fuel industries.
The driving force behind Olga’s engagement, as she herself notes, is “Since the situation is so urgent, we need to use all possible tools to prevent a disaster, and I wanted to try to make as much difference as possible.” Reclaim the Future stands out from other climate youth movements in Sweden since we direct our actions primarily at the fossil fuel industry, but also because we have as a foundational pillar to take care of each other.
Many climate justice activists today risk burnout, and therefore, we need to take care not only of the earth but also ourselves. Olga has learned throughout the years that the fight for climate justice is not a short sprint but rather a long marathon—a commitment that requires both sustainability and community. We cannot burn ourselves at both ends as our politicians do by not acting while the earth is covered in flames. We need to rest simply to navigate this crisis, and no one should feel guilty about that—because when one person rests, there are others out there who can take over. Community is central to building resilience for us as a movement and individuals, and it is also a central part of building holistic well-being for all living things, including the earth.
Momentum in Stockholm has enabled us to create just that—a welcoming and safe space for our community to flourish. We have painted banners ahead of actions, made community meals, held workshops about climate justice and wellbeing, played board games, and simply rested. The most valuable contribution that Momentum has provided our movement with is the fact that it’s a space where our activism is not challenged or questioned; rather, it is encouraged and celebrated.
Olga’s first impression when stepping into Momentum was, “This is a place that exists for us and exists here to support us.” Olga also said that if someone wants to become active, it is nice to have a safe space to introduce them to, like Momentum. You don’t have to do things yourself; there is a community of people welcoming you. We are stronger together, and we also have a lot of fun. Activism is about fighting a lot, but it’s also about enjoying and celebrating the small wins. The only way to keep doing this for as long as it’s needed is by surrounding yourself with people who support each other and are willing to think outside the frames of the current system. Momentum helps us envision another future, where we are not fighting a war against earth and humanity, but rather living in peace.
Hours often pass by when sitting upon the oil tanks, but once again, you are capable of doing that thanks to your community. The fight will need to go on, but we know that it will be worth it in the end. And after actions, we know that we can go back to Momentum, reload our batteries, and breathe out.
My journey started when I was introduced to Ubunifu Hub by a friend through our youth group, “Hatua kwa Hatua”. Little did I know that it would become the guiding light for my journey. The passionate trainers at the hub opened my eyes to the critical issue of climate change advocacy, igniting a curiosity within me that I never knew existed.
As I delved into this new knowledge, I discovered a creative pathway that merged my passion for art with my newfound understanding of climate change. The resources available at the hub allowed me to evolve and enhance my artistic skills, propelling me to new heights of creativity and expression.
One of the pivotal moments in my journey was the opportunity to participate in the ‘I Hummingbird Effect’ campaign led by Tracy Makheti. I created a captivating puzzle art piece and an impactful painting. These works not only showcased my talent but also sparked positive conversations and dialogues on the pressing issue of climate change. Through the campaign, I gained the confidence to continue my journey as an artivist.
The impact of my art extended beyond local borders when I was given the opportunity to travel to Sweden for a youth exchange program. There, I not only gained invaluable knowledge but also shared my artistic gifts with fellow youth from other Planet One hubs, fostering growth in my career as a self-taught artist. Throughout this transformative journey, the team at Ubunifu Hub has been my unwavering support system, providing a nurturing space where creativity flourishes. Their guidance has not only shaped my artistic endeavors but has also empowered me to become a better advocate for change.
I want to express my deep gratitude to Ubunifu Hub for being my stepping stone to my purpose. Your dedication to teaching and advocacy has been instrumental in shaping my journey as an artistic SDG activist. Through your guidance, I have found my voice and passion for climate stories, and I have been able to network with like-minded individuals who have further impacted my life.
Denzel’s beautiful artworks
Your commitment to nurturing talent and giving support has inspired me to educate my community through edu murals that emphasize the importance of climate advocacy and mitigation. The skills and knowledge I have gained from you have empowered me to make a meaningful difference in the world around me.
Thank you for the profound impact you have had on my life. Your unwavering support, constructive feedback, and belief in my potential have helped me grow not only as an artist but as a person. Your mentorship has instilled in me a sense of confidence, creativity, and a lifelong love for learning.
Denzel’s beautiful artworks
I am truly grateful for the countless hours you have dedicated to teaching and guiding me. Your patience, kindness, and genuine care for your students have left an indelible mark on my heart. Thank you for being an exceptional teacher, a mentor, and a friend.
Today, I stand as a testament to the transformative power of art and advocacy, all thanks to the profound impact of patience, hope, and hard work.
Denzel Juma, Young Member, Ubunifu Hub, Nairobi, Kenya
