As we bid farewell to 2024, a year that unfolded with its unique set of challenges and triumphs, we take a moment to reflect on our work with and for youth in all their diversity – a testament to intergenerational intercultural solidarity and our shared accomplishments, and welcome the promise of a new year, we express our sincere gratitude to each member of The Resilient40 for an incredible year of collaboration, passion and growth. Personally, I have been named among the Top 100 Most Influential Africans by the New African Magazine, as well an Impact Maker by the COP Presidency and the UNFCCC Climate Champions team spearheading Climate Justice in Africa in the lead up to COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan and  COP30 respectively happening in Brazil this year. This has been so due to the viable partnerships and your dedicated support and actions as young African leaders, and the much we are yet to achieve together in the years to come.

Throughout the past year, our collective efforts to combat climate change, address climate resilience, and tackle climate-related challenges have been nothing short of inspiring. It is heartening to witness the impact we are and have created and will be as we embark on 2025, let’s carry forward the momentum, determination, and collaborative spirit that defines us as The Resilient40, Africa’s Youth at the forefront of climate action. Here’s to another year of impactful initiatives, meaningful partnerships, and shared successes. As we embark on our first ever International Climate Justice Caravan- United for Climate Action, spanning the continents of Africa, Europe, Caribbean and Latin America, I welcome you to join us as we continue this journey of togetherness and sound one voice within decision making processes, as we together as the global community call for urgent action and Climate Justice for the least of our communities across the world at the frontlines of climate change highlighting the costs of climate inaction to both our people and the planet. Your partnerships, collaborations and support is what will set a foundation to the much we are yet and can achieve at the various high-level Engagements and UN COPs this year.

From empowering underrepresented Youth voices to championing climate resilience across Africa within our established Climate Cafes, it’s been a year of Resilience, Advocacy, and impactful initiatives. Our community has grown, and Together we’ve shaped the global dialogue on combatting climate change, climate-induced migration, and inclusive meaningful participation.

As we celebrate the victories, let’s carry the momentum into 2025 and beyond! Here’s to another year of positive change, empowerment, and amplifying the voices of young leaders for a sustainable climate resilient future across the world. Here’s to the power of youth, the force driving progress and the promise of a brighter collective future. 

Wishing us all an intentional advocative year like never before filled with continued growth, purposeful endeavors, and the fulfillment of our collective green vision!

In Solidarity

Michael Kakande

Chairperson