DENISE AYEBARE

'My journey towards becoming a climate justice activist was not straightforward. I was born in Rwanda but my family fled to Uganda due to the civil war in the 1990s. Growing up as a refugee was challenging, but I was fortunate to be part of the indigenous cattle-keeper community in Western Uganda where my family settled. My upbringing instilled in me a deep appreciation for the natural world and the importance of protecting it. Most of the people in my community depended on the weather to survive, be it cattle feeds or even their household incomes that largely depended on their output.

At the age of 15, I began my activism journey by engaging in debates at the national level to ban plastic bags, known as "kaveera" in Uganda. My passion for the environment and desire to make a difference led me to continue my activism work. I have so far focused on various areas such as biogas installations, recycling plants, green libraries in schools, and tree planting. I have also mentored students in various schools to create climate awareness through debates and panel discussions about climate change.

My efforts did not go unnoticed, and I was soon appointed as the Prime Minister of the National Youth Parliament in Uganda. In this role, I have moved motions for the government to prioritize climate action over economic growth. My leadership and advocacy skills were put to the test when I had to rally other members of the parliament to support her cause. Eventually, my hard work paid off, and the government began to take climate change seriously and they have then created different initiatives engineered towards climate action. For I believe there is nothing for young people without young people. I have gone ahead to be part of global movements that fight for the same cause like FFFMAPA, Loss and Damage coalition, Debt for Climate Uganda chapter and other national movements like Cherish Aid Foundation.

However, I realized that creating systemic change was not enough. I understood that the fight against climate change required a shift in mindset and individual responsibility. I embarked on a mission to build a mindset shift change by encouraging people to take responsibility for their actions through a human rewarding system.

My work as a climate justice activist has not been easy, but I remain committed to making a difference. I understand that climate change is a complex issue that requires collective action, and I continue to inspire others to join me in the fight for a better future. As I approach my 20s, I'm optimistic about the future. I believe that with the right mindset and actions, we can create a better world for ourselves and future generations. My personal and professional journey serves as an inspiration to many, and my work is a testament to the power of determination and perseverance in creating positive change.

If we do not act now, we shall hit a dead end because climate change effects are irreversible, it's

either now or never.