At just 16 years old, Yola Mgogwana is already making waves as one of South Africa’s most passionate young environmental activists. Growing up in Khayelitsha, a township on the outskirts of Cape Town, Yola witnessed the harsh realities of climate change long before she ever read about it in a textbook. From water shortages to polluted air, she saw how environmental issues disproportionately affect low-income communities—and she knew something had to change. Instead of waiting for someone else to act, she decided to be the voice her community needed.
Yola’s journey into activism began in 2019 when she joined the African Climate Alliance, quickly becoming one of its youngest and most outspoken members. With powerful speeches and an unshakable sense of purpose, she began speaking at rallies and events, calling on leaders to take urgent climate action. Her voice—clear, fierce, and informed—echoed far beyond her community, challenging policymakers to center justice in climate discussions. Yola doesn’t just talk about the planet; she talks about people, making the link between environmental sustainability and social equity impossible to ignore.
What sets Yola apart is her fearless advocacy for both climate justice and youth inclusion. She believes young people, especially those from marginalized communities, must be at the forefront of the environmental movement. She regularly visits schools, hosts workshops, and mentors fellow young activists, encouraging them to speak out and stay informed. Through her activism, Yola is not only raising awareness—she’s building a generation of changemakers ready to defend their future.
Despite her age, Yola speaks with the wisdom of someone who deeply understands the urgency of the crisis. She often says, “We are the generation that will suffer the most from climate change, yet we are the least responsible for it.” Her activism is rooted in a deep love for the earth and a belief in collective power. Whether she’s addressing a crowd or planting trees in her neighborhood, Yola leads with hope, courage, and clarity.
Yola Mgogwana’s stand for a sustainable planet is not just inspiring—it’s revolutionary. She reminds the world that age is not a barrier to leadership, and that real change often begins with one determined voice. As she continues to grow her influence, Yola remains proof that the future of climate action is in bold, capable hands—and that hands like hers are already shaping a better tomorrow.
