Egypt’s Ministry of Local Development recently announced the launch of the third edition of the “Climate Leaders” program. This initiative, led by Minister Manal Awad, who also acts as the environment minister, focuses on empowering youth and enhancing women’s roles in climate action.
The launch event brought together key figures from the National Council for Women, the Shabab El-Qiyada Foundation, and previous participants, as well as a group of innovative young climate advocates. Awad emphasized the significance of the program, especially in light of the recent COP30 climate summit in Brazil. She encouraged young participants to develop practical and scalable solutions that can turn environmental challenges into opportunities.
Awad also highlighted the Ministry’s ongoing commitment to supporting youth and women in environmental initiatives. She urged participants to engage in local “smart green projects” competitions, which could provide funding through various partnerships.
“A vibrant approach from our youth is essential,” Awad remarked, encouraging innovative ideas to tackle pressing environmental issues.
Amal Ammar, chair of the National Council for Women, stressed the importance of collaboration in raising environmental awareness among young Egyptians. She noted that empowering women is a crucial part of sustainable development efforts.
The event featured a panel discussion called “Climate Leaders: From Idea to Impact,” where experts shared insights and experiences with emerging project leaders. During the ceremony, the National Council for Women honored Awad with a shield for her dedication to environmental and climate initiatives.
This program is an essential step in fostering a generation that prioritizes environmental sustainability. Recent research indicates that youth involvement in such initiatives can significantly influence public policies and community practices related to climate change. A study from the United Nations found that when youth engage in climate innovation, they not only promote awareness but also drive tangible change within their communities.
For more on climate action trends, you can visit the UN’s climate change page.
















