The UN Global Climate Action Awards Ceremony, part of the COP28 in Dubai, is set to honour two exceptional young individuals for their contributions to sustainability and equity on December 8.
Michelle Zárate Palomec, aged 27 and hailing from Mexico, has been recognised for her leadership within Espacio de Encuentro de las Culturas Originarias. She focuses on securing clean water access for marginalised indigenous communities in Oaxaca, where water resources are scarce and water pollution accentuates social and gender inequalities. Through innovative ecotechnologies, her project aids in water sanitation and micro-watershed recovery, empowering vulnerable communities to adapt to climate-related challenges.
Sebastian Mwaura, aged 35 and representing Kenya, co-founded Yna Kenya, aiming to expedite the adoption of electric vehicles. Their robust charging network, powered by renewable energy, has catalysed the transition towards sustainable transportation. Mwaura's HerGo program is also dedicated to integrating women into the e-mobility sector, envisioning the creation of 12,000 jobs for women as drivers and charging-station owners.
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On December 8, the event will be hosted by journalist and climate advocate Sophia Li, will feature performances by AY Young, a renewable-energy-powered concert series organiser, and Erick Marques, a multimedia artist and DJ from Brazil's Terena ethnic group. Simon Stiell, UN Climate Change Executive Secretary, is slated to address the audience.