In November 2024, ten students from African Leadership Academy had the unique opportunity to attend The Earthshot Prize Awards in Cape Town, South Africa. Established by Prince William in 2020, the Earthshot Prize celebrates and scales innovative solutions to the world’s most pressing environmental challenges.
Year 2 student Emmanuel Njenga (Kenya) reflects on his experience attending the awards, the impact of witnessing African innovation on a global stage, and the inspiration he gained for his own journey as a young leader.
Q&A with Emmanuel Njenga: Insights from the Earthshot Prize
What was it like to attend the Earthshot Prize ceremony in Cape Town?
“The Earthshot Prize Ceremony was an unparalleled experience. It was reassuring and empowering to be part of a community that is genuinely passionate about environmental conservation and sustainability. During the Earthshot Prize Youth Week, I participated in sessions and conversations that deepened my commitment to advocating for climate resilience solutions.
Beyond the event itself, Cape Town’s beauty left an impression on me—it was my first time in the city, and exploring South Africa was an enriching experience.”
What were the most memorable moments for you?
“There were so many highlights, but the most memorable was seeing two winning enterprises from Africa: Green Africa Youth Organization (GAYO) from Ghana and Keep It Cool from Kenya. I deeply resonated with their stories and backgrounds, which reflected challenges similar to those in my own community.
Witnessing their success on such a global platform made me realize that innovation is possible no matter where you come from. Their achievements were a powerful source of motivation for me as an aspiring leader and climate champion.”
How did it feel to be part of a gathering focused on impactful environmental solutions?
“Being surrounded by young people who are pioneering climate solutions across industries opened my mind to the vast potential we hold as youth. I was particularly struck by the importance of collaboration among young innovators in addressing global climate concerns.
The experience empowered me to exercise my ‘innovator muscle’ and reinforced that there are organizations and leaders genuinely passionate about supporting youth-driven solutions.”
How has attending the Earthshot Prize inspired you as a young leader?
“Attending the Earthshot Prize broadened my perspective on how various fields—film, finance, policy, art—can all contribute to the climate cause. This gave me confidence that I can pursue my current passions, like Economics and Public Policy, while still advocating for environmental sustainability.
The event showed me that leadership in the climate space isn’t limited to a single path; it’s about harnessing your strengths to make a meaningful impact.”
How did your experiences at African Leadership Academy prepare you for this event?
“My experience preparing for the 12th ALAMAU conference (2025) equipped me to engage meaningfully at the Earthshot Prize. As part of ALA’s Model African Union (MAU) research class, I focus on the Committee on Rural Economy, Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Environment, where I’m researching ‘Strengthening Institutional Frameworks for Climate Resilience and Natural Disaster Preparedness.’
This research exposed me to the devastating impact of climate change across Africa, particularly the rise in natural disasters. This background knowledge enabled me to actively participate in discussions at Earthshot Prize Youth Week with confidence and purpose.
What role should African youth play in tackling environmental challenges, and how can platforms like Earthshot Prize support that?
“I firmly believe that African youth hold the solutions the world needs to address environmental challenges. The fact that 71% of impactful solutions in Africa have a ‘double impact’—protecting the planet while creating jobs and livelihoods—should motivate us.
The challenges we face are opportunities for innovation. Platforms like the Earthshot Prize are critical because they amplify solutions, provide funding, and connect young innovators with global networks, allowing us to scale our impact.”
Was there anything unexpected about the event that made a lasting impression?
“An unexpected highlight was the sheer diversity of people who gathered for the same cause. From actors and musicians to politicians, corporate leaders, media personalities, and social influencers—everyone shared a passion for environmental innovation.
Emmanuel’s experience at the Earthshot Prize in Cape Town is a powerful reminder of the role Africa’s youth can play in addressing global challenges. His reflections echo a sentiment of hope, possibility, and the urgency to act—showcasing that when youth are empowered, innovation and impact are boundless.
As Emmanuel continues to lead at ALA and beyond, his story serves as an inspiration for aspiring young leaders committed to creating a more sustainable and equitable future.
