Yola Mgogwana

A young person with short curly hair and a flower accessory laughs joyfully. Wearing a white shirt and necklaces, they convey happiness against a plain background.

Yola Mgogwana is a voice of change and speaks for the voiceless, especially those from vulnerable and marginalised communities. From the age of 11, she has been advocating and holding the government accountable.

She started an Eco Club to spread awareness, educate children and youth on climate issues and inspire them to speak up about challenging problems affecting their community. Yola is a Black Girls Rising member, a spokesperson at the African Climate Alliance, and one of the young people involved in the youth-led #CancelCoal climate case against the South African government's plans for coal-fired power.

She is also the young advisor for the Children's International Network. One of her goals for 2023 is to write a children's climate educational book.

One action you’d like people to do to help your work

“Follow my work under Black Girls Rising and help support us spread awareness about my Clean Air Campaign.”

Follow Yola on Instagram.