Iimbovane showcases career opportunities at ELA Youth Empowerment Seminar

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On Saturday 12 October 2024, Iimbovane had the opportunity to participate in a youth empowerment seminar organised by the Environmental Law Association titled, Game Changers for a Liveable Planet. The event brought together bright young minds and teachers at the University of Cape Town (UCT), focusing on equipping the next generation with the tools and knowledge needed for a sustainable future.

As a youth-based initiative, Iimbovane was invited to share the ways the project inspire and empower young people. Iimbovane’s activities focus on hands-on fieldwork where learners learn how to monitor biodiversity and how use scientific equipment to gather environmental data. Iimbovane further equips learners with skills for using technology, for example, how to use tablets and computers for research and data management. These skills improve the scientific knowledge of many learners and prepares them for future academic and career opportunities in environmental science and related fields.

Natalie van der Heuvel, the environmental educator at Iimbovane and Kirstin Meiring, the Western Cape representative at the Environmental Law Association.

 

The presentation also highlighted the diverse career paths that Iimbovane alumni have pursued. From Life Science teachers to medical doctors, entomologists, and environmental lawyers, Iimbovane alumni have gone on to study at top universities across South Africa, including North-West University, University of Cape Town, University of the Western Cape, and Stellenbosch University.

The seminar’s programme featured a lineup of speakers from various organisations dedicated to environmental conservation and sustainability. Topics ranged from climate policy and species conservation to strategic litigation, all aimed at motivating the next generation of environmental professionals. Experts from SANBI, WWF-SA, the Department of Environment Affairs and Development Planning, and the Centre for Environmental Rights shared their insights and experiences.

Learners and teachers from several schools—including Steenberg High, Plumstead High, Cape Academy of Mathematics, Science and Technology (CAMST), Norman Henshilwood High, Sibelius High, Centre of Science and Technology (COSAT), and South Peninsula High—spent their Saturday at UCT immersing themselves in this enriching experience. The day was filled with fun competitions, where CAMST was the runner-up in the High School Quiz Challenge, while Sibelius High took home the championship title.

We extend our thanks to Kirstin Meiring and the organising committee for inviting Iimbovane to be part this wonderful initiative.

Group photo with all the speakers, learners and teachers at the event.