SOFT POWER Global

07/08/2026

change is no longer just an environmental challenge, it is increasingly becoming a matter of , , and resilience. This was the focus of an eye-opening session facilitated by Ballo Ngomna, Youth Peace and Security Expert, during the YSCC training Program.

Drawing on real-life examples from , the session explored how climate change acts as a multiplier, intensifying existing social and economic pressures. Participants examined how droughts, floods, shrinking water resources, and environmental degradation fuel competition over land and water, increasing the risk of between farmers, herders, and fishing communities.

A key highlight was the discussion on the –peace–security nexus, which emphasized that lasting peace requires more than resolving conflicts after they arise. Participants explored how adaptation, sustainable resource management, community dialogue, and climate finance can address the root causes of and build more resilient communities.

Through interactive case studies, participants developed practical solutions to real-world conflict scenarios, demonstrating the power of collaboration, mediation, and local action in preventing violence. The session concluded by inspiring young climate advocates to view climate action as a pathway to protecting not only the environment, but also livelihoods, stability, and peace.

06/08/2026

7 on Climate Governance and Negotiations, led by NDAM provided participants with an in-depth look into global climate diplomacy, clarifying how decisions are made, who sits at the table and the role of youth. He described climate governance as a matter of , , and among nations. Attendees examined the COP, SBs, NDCs, and the processes behind climate finance and transparency.

The expert emphasized that are each country’s pledge to combat climate change, but commitments are effective only with accountability and implementation. The session also addressed climate justice and the disparity between historically high emitters and those facing severe impacts, highlighting Cameroon’s Basin rainforest as a striking example, a vital natural carbon sink that supports the planet yet struggles to access owed climate finance.

Participants were introduced to strategies through a simple exercise involving children bargaining over an orange, demonstrating interests, alternatives, and in practice. wrapped up with a quote: “Young people are now stakeholders in climate governance! Through platforms like , they’re already shaping the conversation today.” is dedicated to fostering a generation of climate-literate, negotiation-ready youth leaders.

04/08/2026

Turning waste into a resource was the central theme of another session on Sustainable Waste Management and Circular Economy, facilitated by Kunu Joel Dingana during the YSCC Programme.

The session challenged participants to rethink conventional views of waste, emphasising that effective waste management is not merely about disposal but about preserving value, recovering resources, and minimising environmental harm. Participants were introduced to the principles of Solid Waste Management (MSWM), including collection, sorting, recycling, treatment, and responsible disposal.

A key highlight was the exploration of economy, which promotes keeping materials in use for as long through , repair, recycling, and recovery, rather than following the traditional “take, make, dispose” model. Participants also learned about characterisation, composting, and biochar production as practical approaches for transforming waste into valuable resources.

. Kunu Joel further examined the challenges facing waste management in and emphasised the critical role of participation, awareness creation, and local innovation in addressing these issues. He encouraged young people to view waste not as a burden, but as an opportunity for environmental protection, economic growth, and sustainable development.

03/08/2026

“If those who contributed the least to climate change suffer the most from its impacts, can we truly call our solutions fair?”

This thought-provoking question framed the Change and Justice session facilitated by . Eugene N. Nforngwa on 25th July as part of the YSCC Programme.

During the session, participants explored the science behind climate change, including the distinction between weather and climate, the causes of warming, and the role of gas emissions from human activities. Beyond the science, the discussion delved into climate justice, highlighting the unequal responsibilities and impacts of climate change across different regions of the world.

. Nforngwa challenged participants to critically examine who contributes most to the climate crisis, who bears its greatest burdens, and how climate solutions can be designed to be and inclusive. The session also covered climate finance, Determined Contributions (NDCs), and the importance of meaningful engagement in climate action.

By the end of the session, participants gained a deeper understanding of climate change as not only an environmental challenge but also an issue of , responsibility, and justice, inspiring them to become active contributors to a more sustainable and just future.

28/07/2026

The second week of the Summer Climate Champions (YSCC) training continued its inspiring journey by equipping fellows with practical knowledge and skills to drive action in their communities.

Participants explored change and justice, management solutions, negotiations and governance, and the links between , peace, and security. The sessions highlighted the importance of inclusive climate action, sustainable resource management, effective climate diplomacy, and peacebuilding in the face of climate challenges.

A special thank you to our facilitators: Eugene Kunu Joel, Ndam, and Ngomna.

As part of the programme, fellows are challenged to environmental issues within their communities and design simple, practical that can be implemented by small teams. They will present their ideas during the final fellowship session, showcasing innovative community-driven approaches to climate action and resilience.

With the classroom phase now concluded, we look forward to seeing these ideas transformed into impactful solutions that contribute to a more sustainable future.

24/07/2026

Our session on jobs offered by Trumah Bayel , explored the various opportunities young people can access within the green economy. He highlighted the critical role of energy, sustainable , and effective management in creating a sustainable future.
Bernard emphasized that these sectors not only contribute to conservation but also present significant job prospects for individuals willing to develop the necessary skills.

During the session, he provided insights into the growing demand for professionals in environmental fields and encouraged participants to embrace continuous learning and skill development. By doing so, he argued, they could position themselves advantageously in a rapidly evolving job market that prioritizes .

His message was clear: action is not just an ethical imperative but also a pathway to meaningful and impactful careers. The discussion left attendees feeling inspired and motivated to pursue opportunities within the green economy.

23/07/2026

How can young people develop and present a strong climate project that can attract financial support?

Our expert, Habiba Gambo, explained that finance provides the financial resources needed to support climate change adaptation and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

She emphasised that while climate change affects lives and livelihoods worldwide, the communities most to its impacts often have the least access to the funding needed to respond effectively.

Participants also explored the difference between adaptation and mitigation, learning that adaptation focuses on helping people and ecosystems cope with the effects of climate change, while mitigation aims to reduce its causes by cutting gas emissions. Practical examples, including -resistant crops, flood barriers, renewable energy, and reforestation, helped illustrate these concepts.

Lastly, participants gained practical knowledge on the major sources of climate finance, the distinction between grants and loans, and the challenges Africa faces in accessing climate funding, such as complex application processes, institutional capacity, and inadequate bankable project proposals.

Despite these challenges, emphasised that young people have numerous opportunities they can access within the climate space.

22/07/2026

“The day the last tree is cut down, we will realize that we cannot eat money." This powerful quote set the tone for the opening session of the Summer Climate Champions (YSCC) programme, reminding participants that environmental protection is essential for human survival and sustainable development.

The first facilitator, Collins Ndi, delivered an insightful session on Management and Conservation, highlighting the close relationship between healthy forests and climate stability. He explained that forests serve as carbon sinks by absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. However, when trees are indiscriminately cut down, the stored carbon is released, increasing greenhouse gas emissions, raising global temperatures, and accelerating climate change

20/07/2026