Laurel Kivuyo
Is an Environmental Health Scientist hailing from the Maasai community in northern Tanzania, grew up deeply connected
to the natural world, as her community’s way of life is closely tied to the environment. This early connection inspired
her journey into climate activism and eventually led her to found Climate Hub Tanzania in 2021.
Driven by a vision to empower young people and especially women to address the urgent challenges of climate change and
environmental pollution, Laurel has built Climate Hub from a small youth platform into a nationwide NGO. Today, she leads a
dedicated team of 5 staff and 3 volunteers who channel resources toward innovative climate solutions across Tanzania.
Laurel’s work spans a range of impactful initiatives, from climate education in 103 schools to eco-friendly briquette
production that creates economic opportunities for women in the rural areas. She also emphasizes the link between mental
health and climate change, recognizing that environmental stressors can significantly impact well-being. Under her leadership,
Climate Hub Tanzania has become a beacon of resilience and sustainability, mobilizing youth-led actions that address climate
justice and empower communities.
The successful execution of Climate Hub Tanzania programs birthed Laurel’s appointment as the National Youth Environment
Ambassador, under the Vice President’s office, where she was given a platform to engage youth in climate action at the
national level. During her one-year tenure, she played a pivotal role in mobilizing over 10,000 young people to participate
in climate projects across the country, creating a legacy of meaningful youth involvement.
Building on this experience, in 2022, Laurel was elected as the SADC Climate Change Youth Envoy, representing the voices of
youth from 16 Southern African nations. In this role, she promoted youth participation in climate governance and policy
advocacy and had the honor of addressing world leaders at the UN General Assembly during the 2023 UN Water Conference in
New York. Laurel has advocated for inclusive climate resilience on both national and global stages, sharing her community's
voice with the world.
Laurel brings a wealth of experience in resource mobilization, youth engagement, policy advocacy, and leadership. A seasoned
negotiator in international climate forums, she has represented Tanzanian youth at key global events, including multiple
UN Climate Change Conferences (COPs). She serves as Chairperson of the Presidential platform Green Samia - Youth for Climate
Action Tanzania and holds numerous ambassadorial roles.
Laurel’s work has been recognized in prominent media outlets like BBC, CNN, and DW, and her advocacy has earned her numerous
awards and recognition both nationally and internationally.
