The EcoShe AndriamiarimbolaProject’s Barisoa Nancy on Being Planet Positive

By Lorraine Kinnear

The urgency of climate change has thrust young voices and the advocacy of women to the forefront of global climate justice initiatives. In this context, initiatives like the EcoShe Project, led by Andriamiarimbola Barisoa Nancy, drive inspired action in the space of climate action. The EcoShe Project embodies a fusion of environmental activism, women’s empowerment and is driven by Nancy’s passion for climate justice and gender equality.

Nancy's fervour was ignited during her attendance at the 20th anniversary of the Maputo Protocol in Tanzania, where her commitment to addressing the specific impact of climate change on women solidified. She delineates the Project's multifaceted approach - from organising workshops encompassing climate justice and gender equality to leveraging the Tanora Revolution Podcast to disseminate the message globally. The emphasis lies not only on education and raising awareness but also on tangible action through initiatives like providing sustainable pads and targeting marginalised communities in Madagascar, pro- moting inclusivity within the climate dialogue. Here is what she had to share about the EcoShe Project:

TRC: What motivated you to initiate the EcoShe Project?

NB: I started the EcoShe Project, which received the Climate and Development Knowledge Network (CDKN)'s Climate Justice Award, driven by my passion as a women's rights defender and climate justice advocate. Attending the 20th anniversary of the Maputo Protocol in Tanzania for African women's rights strengthened my commitment. I deeply care about climate change and its specific impact on women.

The EcoShe Project plans to organise enjoyable, engaging, and supportive workshops about climate justice and gender equality, primarily for women, with a welcoming embrace of the “HeForShe” movement. We'll provide sustainable pads and use the Tanora Revolution Podcast to reach a global audience. We aim to cover several cities, with a focus on marginalised and indigenous communities in Madagascar, thereby promoting inclusivity.

TRC: How do you perceive the role of youth in addressing climate change?

NB: I believe youth play a crucial role in addressing climate change. Our passion, innovative thinking, and ability to mobilise communities make us catalysts for meaningful change. Youth are not just beneficiaries but active contributors to sustainable solutions, and their engagement is vital to building a resilient and environmentally conscious future.

Personally, I'm involved in supporting youth causes. I've trained forty young individuals in debate and public speaking at African Voice, leading the Madagascar team to secure third place in the African Debate Championship in 2022. I firmly believe in the importance of amplifying youth voices, especially considering the challenges that they face are often being overlooked.

TRC: What were the key takeaways from your participation in the Global Landscapes Forum in Nairobi, Kenya?

NB: I'm truly grateful to have been a part of the 2023 Landscape Leadership Workshop leading up to the Global Landscapes Forum (GLF) in Nairobi, Kenya from 11–12 October 2023. The workshop offered valuable perspectives on climate justice, the complexities of negotiating with diverse stakeholders for climate justice, and the impactful role of storytelling as a landscape leader.

The GLF in Nairobi, particularly the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) Youth Consultation, provided a crucial global platform for youth to exchange ideas on land restoration. The emphasis on stewarding visions of justice and restoration was a highlight, where young people from around the world took centre stage and shared their insights on stewardship and justice. This collective engagement highlighted the importance of youth voices and their role in shaping a just and sustainable future for our landscapes.

TRC: In what ways do you believe youth involvement can impact and drive action in the realm of climate change?

NB: Young people can make a big difference in dealing with climate change. We bring new ideas and a sense of urgency to climate action. Our activism has the power to influence policies, raise awareness, and drive community engagement whether through advocacy, grassroots initiatives, or innovative projects. I truly believe that young people can be strong leaders, making our world more sustainable.

Mrs. Anjatiana Radoharinirina, the President of our National Alliance on Biodiversity, Climate Change, and Desertification in Madagascar whom we’ve had the delight to partner with, alongside young people from all 23 regions of Madagascar, always says, "Youth can do it!" And I totally agree – I believe we are the driving force behind the change we wish to see in the world.

TRC: What challenges have you noted for youth engagement in climate change initiatives, and how do you propose to address them?

NB: Youth often face financial barriers when getting involved in climate change efforts, even though they have creative solutions for addressing this global problem. Luckily, there are numerous opportunities available in different organisations such as GLF, UNFCCC YOUNGO and other such organisations. Unfortunately, in certain parts of the world, the voices of young people aren't heard enough in decision-making, and it's crucial that we work to ensure our voices are recognised. My experience at the Global Landscapes Forum (GLF), where youth actively participated and played a central role, informs my suggestion to tackle these challenges. This involves creating targeted programs to build the skills of young individuals, promoting inclusivity, and advocating for meaningful participation of youth at all decision-making levels.

TRC: How do you envision the future of youth involvement in climate change efforts?

NB: I envision a future where youth is central to global climate initiatives, not just as advocates but as leaders and decision-makers. Their active involvement will be integral to shaping sustainable policies, fostering innovation, and driving a collective global response to climate change. The GLF 2023 slogan, "A New Vision for Earth," resonates with my belief that youth are the primary builders of this vision. When we're discussing their future, it only makes sense for them to be involved in making the policies that will impact them. It is impossible to talk about the youth without including the youth themselves!

TRC: What strategies do you and EcoShe employ to advocate for and empower, as well as mobilise youth for climate action?

NB: The EcoShe Project is dedicated to championing and empowering youth for climate action, focusing on climate justice and addressing the disproportionate impacts on marginalised communities in Madagascar. The Project provides essential skills through focused knowledge-based workshops and promotes sustainable practices with the Pads4Her initiative. The initiative promotes sustainable and eco-friendly pads for women. Personally, I care deeply about youth well-being and so I initiated The Tanora Revolution Podcast as part of the project, aiming to empower the next generation by fostering a positive mindset, encouraging a healthy lifestyle, nurturing a compassionate heart, and building a resilient soul. These combined strategies form a comprehensive approach to advocating for youth, recognising their pivotal role as key contributors to meaningful climate action.

TRC: What specific opportunities have you identified for youth to contribute meaningfully to climate change mitigation and adaptation?

NB: Youth now have abundant opportunities, especially with the aid of technology. Through these platforms, I have been privileged to land the role of Regional Coordinator for Youth Opportunities, overseeing Ambassadors in various African countries such as Ethiopia, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zimbabwe, and playing a role in ensuring the successful completion of the Global Ambassador program.

This global program offers young people avenues for personal and professional growth. Opportunities for youth involvement extend to sectors like renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and community resilience projects. As a young leader, I recognise the importance of integrating our existing skills and knowledge such as artificial intelligence into our pursuits. Given my background in computer science, I believe this to be crucial. In the future, I aspire to prepare youth especially women for negotiations, emphasising the transformative impact of such engagement through the EcoShe Project.

TRC: How do you perceive the value of engaging youth in global discussions and initiatives related to climate change?

NB: Engaging youth in global discussions injects diversity, creativity, and a vital sense of urgency into the conversation. It will ensure that genuine targeted solutions are implemented, as our perspectives are crucial for crafting strategies that are not only inclusive but also effective in addressing the complexities of climate change. Our involvement ensures that the leaders of tomorrow actively contribute to shaping the trajectory of climate initiatives. With our planet facing challenges, it's evident that youth will bear the consequences of inadequate solutions. Empowering youth to take action, lead, and advocate for their future is imperative in building a sustainable and resilient world.

TRC: What key recommendations would you offer for fostering greater youth participation and impact in the spaces of climate change?

NB: I believe that it is essential to prioritise accessible educational resources, mentorship programs, and handson experiences with adequate support if we want to foster greater youth participation and impact in the realm of climate change. Young people must have their voices heard in all aspects, especially in the critical endeavours of addressing climate change. We cannot be passive participants in the conversations about our future. We must become more active and create the future the way we want it. I will conclude with the insightful words of Bamigboye Olurotimi, who said, “Youth is the hope of today and the joy of tomorrow.” Let us empower and support the youth, recognising them as catalysts for positive change and a source of optimism for a better tomorrow.

Andriamiarimbola Barisoa Nancy's journey with the

EcoShe Project exemplifies the indelible impact of youth and women in the fight against climate change. The insights gleaned from her engagements underscore the need for inclusive platforms, financial support, and targeted programs to elevate youth participation. To amplify youth involvement, it's imperative to create accessible educational resources, mentorship programs, and hands-on experiences, echoing Nancy's sentiments. The EcoShe Project stands as a testament to the potential for transformative change when young minds are engaged, empowered, and given a platform to lead.