Scovia Ampumuza

Tell us about yourself:

I am Scovia Ampumuza, originally from Rwanda, and currently deeply engaged in climate justice and environmental sustainability efforts. My involvement in this field traces back to when I was just 13 years old. At that time, my community experienced the harsh impact of climate change through a severe drought that left us facing hunger. In response, we had to relocate in search of better opportunities, an experience that exposed me to the perils of child marriage as I was kidnapped during this period. Fortunately, I managed to escape and found refuge with an indigenous family living in the mountains and spent a month with them. These challenging experiences fueled my commitment to climate justice.

Having personally seen how climate change affects ecosystems and vulnerable communities, I made it my mission to support efforts that advance sustainability. I co-founded Faraja Rwanda. Our main goals are to promote fair inclusive and gender-responsive climate policies and increase public knowledge of these issues, with a focus on how they affect women and young people in particular.

In my climate justice work, I collaborate closely with local communities, participate in environmental advocacy campaigns, and support policies prioritizing the well-being of both people and the planet. Additionally, my efforts extend to addressing plastic pollution by championing the reduction of single-use plastics and recycling them into materials for creating infrastructure like pavements.

The connection between social justice and environmental issues is a powerful driving force for me. My motivation stems from the belief that everyone, regardless of their background, deserves a healthy and sustainable environment. I am driven by a passion for creating positive change, fostering resilience in the face of climate challenges, and contributing to a more equitable and sustainable future for all.

‍What are you planning to do with the grant?

JWH grant will help me to finish my Studies in Global Environmental Science which has three Courses as I indicated in LDP -Leadership Development Plan and complete them with limited challenges.

What do you hope the JWH grant will bring you?

JWH Grant will support me through my studies and I will gain the following;

1. Global Awareness and Career Advancement

2. The courses will likely enhance my global awareness by exposing me to different cultures, environmental issues, and sustainable development practices worldwide. This broader perspective is crucial for addressing complex challenges on a global scale.

3. Impactful Projects: Armed with a deeper understanding of global sustainability issues, equipped to contribute to or lead impactful projects aimed at addressing environmental challenges, promoting sustainable development, and fostering ecological stewardship.

4. Advocacy and Policy Engagement: With a solid foundation in global sustainability and development, I will find more opportunities to engage in my advocacy work and continue to contribute to the development of policies and strategies aimed at creating positive environmental and social change.

5. Personal Growth and Empowerment & Lifelong Learning and Adaptability: Beyond the professional realm, these courses can contribute to my personal growth by instilling a sense of responsibility, empowerment, and a commitment to making a positive impact on the world enabling me to stay informed and relevant in the evolving landscape of international development and sustainability.

What is your dream for the future?

Completing my studies will ease my work of Advocacy, Engaging in drafting and implementing gender-responsive and youth-inclusivity policies which will create positive change in myself, my community, and the world.