The Voices, Today! by UNICEF: Empowering Youth to Lead Climate Action

Introduction

The last few weeks have been incredibly busy as we worked towards World Children's Day 2024 in collaboration with UNICEF Nigeria. This effort has been driven by my deep passion for children's development. This commitment began with Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka's launch of the Vision of the Child (VoTC) in 2011 under the Lagos Black Heritage Festival. Over the years, this initiative has impacted thousands of children across more than 400 schools in Nigeria, laying a solid foundation for many other impactful projects.

The Vision of the Child has since evolved into robust initiatives, including Solution17 for SDGs, Solution17 for Climate Action, Creative Youth Initiative Against Corruption, and Solution17 at CRC30. Some of our projects have received global recognition, awards, and project showcases across the United Nations Platform.

We've collaborated with UNICEF Nigeria, UNODC, UNDP, UNIC Nigeria, and various organisations in the financial, manufacturing, and technology sectors and the Lagos State Government. These partnerships have helped us drive change, particularly in empowering children and youth to tackle pressing global challenges like climate change.

Our Status with ECOSOC:

Our organisation, CYCDI-Solution17, has consultative status at the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSO) and a proven track record of delivering SDG-aligned programs, widely recognised for their contributions to SDGs, Education and Social Development.

The World Children's Day 2024

Pre-Event Activities: Laying the Foundation

To prepare for World Children's Day, our team visited public and private schools across Lagos to engage students in discussions about The Voices, Today! and the critical role they can play in climate action. We sensitised students on how they can make impactful changes in their schools, homes, and communities, sparking enthusiasm for the initiative.

Solution17 Climate Educators conducted on-site training sessions to enhance climate awareness and advocacy skills. A robust Climate Education Curriculum was developed to support teachers and trainers. In total, 40 UNICEF Climate Champions were selected from participating schools to represent their communities at the main event.

The training empowered children to be vocal advocates for climate action while building networks of young environmental leaders. School representatives were also prepared as panellists, climate artists, and storytellers for the event, ensuring every child had a platform to share their unique perspectives.

The Event: Amplifying Voices for Change

On November 20, 2024, over 120 participants gathered at the UNICEF Office in Ikoyi, Lagos, to commemorate World Children's Day with the theme "The Voices, Today! by UNICEF: Empowering Youth to Lead Climate Action." Hosted by the dynamic Princess Marinay the event featured poetry, drama, storytelling, art, and panel discussions, where children showcased their creativity and leadership, addressing the urgent need for climate action.

Celine Lafoucriere , Chief of UNICEF’s Field Office for South-West Nigeria, opened the day with insightful remarks, emphasizing the importance of children and young people in driving climate action.

Her words inspired everyone to take bold steps toward a sustainable future. 🌱💪

The keynote message was powerfully delivered by 9-year-old Michelle, whose heartfelt words captivated the audience. With clarity and passion, she explained why immediate action is essential to prevent the devastating effects of climate change, emphasising the impact on her generation.

Michelle concluded her address with an inspiring call to action, sharing the initiatives she is leading in her school, such as tree planting and recycling programs, to drive change in her community. Her message was a reminder of the power of young voices in shaping a sustainable future.

Goodwill Message by UNICEF Nigeria Champion

A standout moment was Kate Henshaw's Goodwill Message, which inspired participants to harness their voices for change and the importance of empowering children to lead the charge for climate action.

For Every Tree Cut, Plant Ten by Child Poet and Artist:

7-year-old Crystal Oluwadare, through her poetry and painting, showed us the incredible power of children’s voices in shaping the future.

Let’s pause, truly listen, and support them as they take bold steps to create a better world.

Here’s her heartfelt poem:

For Every Tree Cut, Plant Ten

For every tree that's cut or gone,

Plant ten more. Let life go on

Green leaves dance in the sun and rain

They clean our air, and they ease our pain.

Grow a forest, strong and free — A gift of hope from you and me.

And as Crystal says: "Dear, relax and watch as I turn my poem into a painting." 🎨

Thank you, Crystal, for inspiring us all. 🌱💙

Pencil for the Planet

In Pencil for the Planet segment, six students from six different schools worked individually with pencils, watercolours, and creativity to translate their ideas about climate change onto six distinct canvases.

Each canvas told a unique story, illustrating the problems, effects, and solutions to climate challenges such as deforestation, flooding, pollution, and global warming. Their artwork also captured hopeful solutions, from renewable energy and recycling to community-driven conservation efforts.

This vibrant display of talent and passion highlighted how young people view climate change and their determination to inspire action through art.

The Power of Storytelling- Climate Action Starts with Us

Tomike Adeoye's session on the Power of Storytelling showcased how impactful narratives can ignite awareness and mobilise communities toward climate action. Her engaging presentation emphasized the role of personal stories in connecting with audiences, inspiring change, and driving collective action to address pressing environmental challenges.

The Interactive Panel Session at the World Children's Day event, titled "Climate Action Starts with Us," brought together a dynamic group of panellists, including Haoma Worgwu , a YPAT member and LinkedIn Queen; Akinjisola Victor , a youth climate advocate; Samuel O. , Solution17 Climate Action Champion; and three secondary school students from participating schools.

Moderated by, Princess Marinay , the session provided a platform for these young voices to explore critical aspects of climate action, share their experiences, and discuss solutions. Haoma shared how she leverages social media to inspire climate awareness, while Samuel highlighted the most pressing environmental issues for young people. The students shared personal stories of taking climate action in their schools and communities, offering a glimpse into their challenges and triumphs.

The session concluded with an engaging key takeaway from the panellists. The discussion highlights the importance of education, collaboration, and youth leadership in driving climate action.

Panelists emphasised actionable steps, such as promoting "green" careers, enhancing school curricula, and fostering community awareness. The moderator wrapped up with a call to action, reminding attendees that climate action starts with us. This was followed by a photo session to capture the inspiring moment.

The Climate Pledge

A highlight was the participation of 40 children, each writing personal commitments on pledge cards outlining post-event climate actions. These pledges were displayed on the extraordinary UNICEF Pledge CANVAS, a powerful visual reminder of their dedication to a sustainable future.

From interactive panels to vibrant performances, the event demonstrated young people's creativity, resilience, and leadership in tackling climate challenges.

What's Next?

The journey continues. Solution17 will follow up with participating schools to evaluate the project's impact and continue supporting climate education initiatives. Our previous projects, such as Trees From Art, paved the way for 40 schools approved by the Lagos State Government.

By 2030, The Voices, Today! It aims to nurture thousands of young climate leaders committed to creating a healthier planet.

Appreciation

This event would not have been possible without the unwavering support of the incredible UNICEF Lagos Team. Special thanks to Celine Lafoucriere Ejiofor Blessing Ochuko E. David Eigbike, MSc, FIPMA. Deborah Sati Kesmen and the entire UNICEF staff for their dedication and partnership in amplifying youth voices for climate action.

Together, we have reignited hope for a brighter tomorrow.

UNICEF UNICEF USA UNICEF UK UNICEF Innovation UNICEF NextGen Lagos State Government Solution17 Green Generation Unlimited Kevin Frey

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