Young Eco Champions Empowered at Dordrecht High School Climate Training

Dordrecht, Eastern Cape — Five learners from Dordrecht High School have taken an important step towards environmental leadership after receiving climate change training aimed at empowering them to drive sustainability initiatives in their school and community.

The training session was hosted by iZwi Mentorship Hub as part of the Masifunde Changemaker Network programme, which focuses on equipping young people with the knowledge, skills and confidence to take action on environmental challenges.

The learners were recently nominated as Eco Champions during an activation workshop and were selected for the specialised training to help them become ambassadors for climate awareness and environmental responsibility.

Building youth leaders for climate action

The session was facilitated by Thembelani George Vazi and Sue-Marie Styn from iZwi Mentorship Hub, which is based in Indwe.

During the workshop, the facilitators guided the learners through practical discussions and activities focused on climate change solutions and environmental leadership. The goal was to help the young participants understand the impact of climate change while also encouraging them to take meaningful action within their communities.

Learners were also introduced to the fundamentals of planning and running environmental campaigns. This included learning about different types of initiatives such as awareness campaigns, school-based environmental activities and community projects that promote sustainability.

The training highlighted practical steps required to organise and lead campaigns effectively, empowering the learners to mobilise their peers and community members to participate in environmental action.

Equipping learners with practical skills

According to Revd Vazi, Managing Director of iZwi Mentorship Hub, the programme aims to nurture a new generation of environmentally conscious leaders.

“Our goal with this training is to empower young leaders to understand the effects of climate change and to equip them with practical tools to create positive change in their schools and communities. These Eco Champions are the change-makers of tomorrow,” he said.

The initiative encourages learners to move beyond theory by applying their knowledge in real-life projects that can improve environmental awareness and sustainability practices within their schools.

Growing environmental awareness in local communities

Through programmes such as the Masifunde Changemaker Network, iZwi Mentorship Hub continues to play an active role in promoting youth development, environmental awareness and community engagement in rural parts of the Eastern Cape.

The organisation works with young people to develop leadership skills while also addressing pressing social and environmental challenges affecting local communities.

By training learners to lead campaigns and environmental projects, the initiative aims to create long-term positive change that extends beyond the classroom and into the wider community.

The five newly trained Eco Champions are expected to begin implementing environmental initiatives at their school, encouraging fellow learners to become more aware of climate issues and to participate in activities that support a greener and more sustainable future.

Organisers say they are proud of the learners’ enthusiasm and commitment and are hopeful that their leadership will inspire others to join the movement for environmental protection.