Almaaz Mudaly, a grade 12 learner at Roedean School, is a climate change activist serving as a high school liaison person for the Youth Climate Action Plan at the South African Institute of International Affairs. Her work involves influencing climate policies and leaders at provincial, national and global levels. Almaaz, 18, is also an award-winning debater and speaker, regularly contributing to local and global events advocating for climate change and youth inclusion. She has represented South African youth at international forums, and contributed to drafting climate statements. Additionally, she works on innovative community projects such as an agriculture empowerment platform and sustainable food insulation solutions, aiming to address food security and environmental problems. Almaaz serves on various youth councils and contributes to global health and education research. An achievement she is proud of is coordinating the launch of the South African youth parliament on climate change, which brought together more than 100 groups from all socio-economic backgrounds around the country. Together they contributed to the South African Youth Climate Action Plan, which was presented to the Presidential Climate Commission and at COP 26.
Completing IEB Natinal Senior Certificate – Grade 12 (Roedean School)
One of the projects I am most proud of is the launch of the South African Youth Parliament on Climate Change. This initiative brought together more than 100 communities across South Africa to voice their concerns and contribute to the multilateral South African Youth Climate Action Plan. The project aimed to ensure that the voices of young people from all socio-economic backgrounds were included in shaping climate policy at a national level.
Coordinating such a large and diverse group taught me the importance of collective action. Each community brought unique perspectives and solutions, which enriched the overall policy recommendations.
Presenting the SA Youth Climate Action Plan to government officials such as the Presidential Climate Commission and at international forums like COP 26 demonstrated the potential effect of youth-driven initiatives. It showed me that young people can influence policy and drive meaningful change when given the platform and support to do so.
Leading this project taught me how to empower others, delegate effectively and inspire a shared vision.
Sharing the stage with renowned environmentalists like Jane Goodall and David Attenborough during the 2020 Climate Action Day was a profound experience. Their lifelong dedication to environmental conservation and their ability to communicate complex ecological issues to a global audience through storytelling have greatly inspired me.
Working alongside Dr Mamphela Ramphele, a prominent South African anti-apartheid activist, academic and businesswoman, as part of the Club of Rome’s Ubuntu Learning Circles, has been incredibly inspiring. Her commitment to social justice, education, and sustainable development has deeply influenced my approach to integrating these aspects into my climate activism.
Speaking at the World Health Summit alongside Helen Clark, the former prime minister of New Zealand, provided valuable insights into global health governance and policy. Her leadership and advocacy for health equity and climate action have been instrumental in shaping my understanding of the intersection between health and environmental policies.