In this series, we hear from young climate leaders across the world as they begin their climate solution journey. Today, Nonkululeko Malomane tells us about her experience at The Climate Youth Leadership Programme during Earthshot Week 2024 and her dream of providing clean drinking water to communities in South Africa.
The Climate Youth Leadership Programme was delivered in partnership with Common Purpose.
I am Nonkululeko Malomane, and I come from Mganduzweni, a rural area in Mpumalanga, South Africa. Currently, I am pursuing my MSc in Chemistry at the Institute for Nanotechnology and Water Sustainability at the University of South Africa.
As a passionate advocate for scientific advancement and women’s empowerment, I have witnessed firsthand the devastating impacts of climate change in my community. This is what gives me the motivation to search for solutions.
When I arrived in Cape Town for the Climate Youth Leadership Programme, I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. The city’s beauty and the chance to meet like-minded individuals from around the world filled me with anticipation. Being part of this event meant stepping out of my comfort zone and taking the lead in addressing pressing climate challenges.
Earthshot Week was not just an event for me; it was a call to action. Surrounded by young visionaries committed to repairing our planet, I realised that I can make a difference. This experience has inspired me to believe that the world is waiting for me to act.
Accessing clean drinking water remains a significant challenge in many regions of South Africa. People still have to walk long distances to fetch water, a task that is not only time-consuming but also physically demanding. I am committed to contributing to solutions for these problems, particularly in the context of water sustainability.
By addressing the intersection of climate change, water scarcity, and rural development, I believe we can create a more equitable and resilient future for all.
To address these problems, I am working on a project to design sustainable nanoparticle-based solutions for disinfection of household water, particularly for people in rural areas. This project aims to provide clean drinking water, mitigating the impact of climate change on water scarcity and quality.
My dream is to see my project implemented on a large scale, providing clean drinking water to communities in need. I believe that with collaboration, perseverance, and support, we can make this vision a reality and create a significant positive impact on the environment.
One moment from the week that made me feel empowered was when the GAYO founder gave a speech on stage after receiving his award. He shared his journey, including the challenges he faced and how he overcame them. This stuck with me because it reminded me that perseverance and passion can lead to remarkable achievements, despite the obstacles one may face.
The Earthshot Week experience was transformative, offering invaluable lessons and insights. One key takeaway was the importance of inclusivity and collaboration in driving meaningful change.
Witnessing the diversity of projects and ideas presented reinforced my belief in the power of collective action. Furthermore, the week underscored the need for immediate action on climate change, encouraging me to remain committed to my research and its potential to contribute to sustainable solutions.
Nonkululeko during Earthshot Week 2024
Nonkululeko and fellow Young Climate Leaders during Earthshot Week 2024
Nonkululeko meets Earthshot Prize Ambassador Nomzamo Mbatha
Nonkululeko and fellow Young Climate Leaders during Earthshot Week 2024
Nonkululeko and fellow Young Climate Leaders during Earthshot Week 2024
Partners from across the Earthshot network came together to make the inaugural Climate Youth Leadership Programme possible, including DP World, Paul G. Allen Family Foundation, Bloomberg Philanthropies, Temasek Foundation, and Tsao Pao Chee.
