The Changemakers Program
The Changemakers Program is a transformative initiative designed to empower and equip youth from Kenya, Peru and Switzerland with the transferable skills and knowledge to drive positive change in their communities. 🌱 This is a program designed with and for youth.
In 2023, our program guided and supported a cohort of 31 pre-selected Changemakers in their learning journey while fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment. By co-creating a 6-month long program (June 2023 to January 2024) alongside young participants, the program creators and designers Wyss Academy for Nature, Goodwall and Emzingo ensure that the curriculum is relevant, engaging and tailored to meet their needs. 🌎
The 2023 cohort concluded the program with a weeklong Final Summit which took place in beautiful Isiolo, Kenya, marking a significant milestone in their journey of innovation and social entrepreneurship. This event was the culmination of months of hard work, learning, and collaboration among the young leaders committed to creating positive environmental impacts through sustainable business practices.
The agenda highlights included a visit to Naibunga Conservancy, illustrating the impact of community-led conservation efforts and sustainable land management practices.
In an intensive hackathon, participants formed mixed teams to tackle the challenge of building youth-led, climate-positive businesses, aligning with the Wyss Academy EAF Hub’s mission. This intense session fostered creativity and collaboration, as teams developed viable business models aimed at environmental sustainability and economic viability, intending to integrate these into national and international markets.
The summit concluded with a public event at which the teams proudly presented their solutions. They were judged on scalability, sustainability, and market potential by an esteemed audience of approx. 70 guests from academia, local governments, the private sector, and NGOs. This event celebrated young leadership and collaborative efforts toward a sustainable future, emphasizing the critical role of youth in driving environmental change and innovation.
The program designers are currently preparing the second edition of the Changemakers program and are working on initiatives to further engage with and build on the strengths of the 2023 alumni cohort.
Together we strive to cultivate a community of driven individuals passionate about positively impacting and driving sustainable development in their respective communities. 🚀
Program benefits
Join a Global Community 🌍
You’ll have the chance to connect with and learn from other young people from Peru, Kenya, and Switzerland who share your interests in sustainable development.
Local Support 📍
You’ll receive local guidance and support through Wyss Academy’s Hubs in your country, so you can make the most of your experience and resources.
Tailored Mentoring 📚
You’ll receive personalized mentoring on both soft and hard skills through one-on-one talks, group workshops, and online exercises that are tailored to your specific needs and interests.
Recognition 🏆
You’ll receive a certification from a respected institution that will recognize your participation in the program and the skills and knowledge you’ve gained.
Project Development 📝
You’ll get guidance on how to develop your own sustainability project or idea, so you can turn it into a reality and make a positive impact in your community.
Travel Opportunities ✈
You’ll have the chance to meet your international peers in person at the end of the program during our Changemakers Summit, where you’ll be able to network, learn, and celebrate together.
The Partnership
Emzingo is a Certified B-Corporation working with purpose-driven leaders, teams, and organizations to drive innovation, inspire responsible leadership, and connect business performance to social and environmental impact.
Goodwall is the skills social network to learn and earn. With over 2M members in 150 countries, we offer 5M+ jobs, $1.5M+ in scholarships, and volunteer events. We help Gen Z showcase their skills and achievements, allowing them to level up in life.
The Wyss Academy for Nature’s mission is to transform scientific knowledge into action. We co-design and implement projects across Central Europe, East Africa and South America. Our global structure facilitates replication of successes and learning.
