HCCM Empowers Ten Young Women to Lead Climate Action

A two-day workshop brought young women from Kwazamokuhle, Hendrina and surrounding communities together to explore climate change, the Just Energy Transition and creative environmental advocacy.

The Hendrina Climate Change Movement (HCCM) hosted a Climate Leadership Workshop for ten young women on 9–10 September 2026, creating a space for learning, reflection and participation in community environmental action. The workshop focused on climate change and its effects on communities, environmental sustainability, green economy opportunities and the role of young women in shaping a Just Energy Transition. Through discussions, written exercises, presentations and practical activities, participants explored how they could contribute to change in their own communities.

Understanding Climate Change and the Just Energy Transition

Nature Mnguni opened the first day by welcoming participants and inviting introductions. An Indalo Inclusive representative, identified in the report as Mr Rest, then facilitated a session on climate change, the Just Energy Transition and the role of civil society organisations. Participants examined the difference between mitigation, reducing the causes of climate change, and adaptation, responding to its effects. Written exercises and a debate encouraged them to consider the different priorities of stakeholders within a community. These activities provided an opportunity to think critically about whose needs are represented in environmental decisions and how communities can participate in shaping their future. Nompumelelo Mashaba from Indalo Inclusive introduced career pathways within the green economy. She encouraged participants to reflect on their strengths, weaknesses and skills gaps, as well as the climate and energy challenges they cared about addressing. The session connected environmental learning with personal aspirations, inviting each participant to consider how her abilities could contribute to community solutions.

Turning Knowledge into Community Action

The second day began with Zinzi Mnguni inviting participants to share their reflections and highlights from the previous day. Nature Mnguni then explored how the five senses support learning before introducing the “Ten Commandments of Activism” and four types of activists and their roles. Practical activities helped participants consider how these lessons could guide their engagement within their communities. Mbuso Sithole presented HCCM’s five organisational portfolios. Each of the ten women selected a portfolio she felt comfortable contributing to or wished to work within, creating a practical pathway for participation in the organisation’s activities.

Using Creativity to Advocate for Change

Tony from Vukani Environmental Movement facilitated a session on different forms of advocacy and introduced participants to artivism—the use of art and creative expression to advance social and environmental causes. He challenged the women to explore how their talents could become tools for activism. Examples and a video of Vukani Environmental Movement’s work, including its “Clearing the Air” project, illustrated how creative approaches can communicate environmental concerns and encourage community engagement. The session invited participants to recognise that their own talents could help make environmental advocacy accessible and meaningful.

Building Women’s Participation in Climate Leadership

The workshop concluded with a vote of thanks from Zinzi Mnguni, acknowledging the participants and everyone who contributed to the two-day programme.HCCM extends its appreciation to Indalo Inclusive, Nompumelelo Mashaba, Vukani Environmental Movement and all facilitators for sharing their knowledge and experience.By combining climate education, leadership reflection and practical advocacy, the workshop supported young women in identifying ways to participate in environmental action. Their involvement is essential to building a Just Transition that responds to the experiences, priorities and aspirations of local communities.

HCCM: Our Community, Our Voice. Monitoring pollution. Demanding Accountability. Building a healthy Hendrina for all.