We’re so excited to introduce our 2026 Resilience Fellows! This year, our Resilience Fellowship is rooted in East Africa, bringing together an inspiring group of young changemakers from Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda for our Resilience Residential in Nairobi.
The Resilience Fellowship is our flagship programme, a space where activists can strengthen their own resilience while learning how to pass it on. Through our train-the-trainer model, Fellows are given the tools to run their own 8–10 week Resilience Circles, creating spaces of care, support, and sustainable climate action within their communities and beyond.
Over the course of the programme, Fellows work in pairs and go on a transformational leadership journey, learning skills that will not only keep them going in their own activism, but to lift others up too.
From entrepreneurs to grassroots organisers, our Fellows are already making waves in their communities. What connects them is a bold vision for a more just, kind, and sustainable future.
Meet the incredible young leaders we’re lucky to be working with this year:
Nabukalu Patience
A Ugandan climate activist with Fridays for Future Uganda who amplifies the voices of marginalised communities, particularly women across the Global South who are disproportionately affected by climate change. Through grassroots organising and international advocacy, she has campaigned against projects such as the East African Crude Oil Pipeline and represented African youth on global platforms, including leading a protest at TotalEnergies’ Annual General Meeting in Paris. Rooted in climate justice, Patience connects environmental degradation with social inequity, mobilises communities, and advocates for greater corporate accountability.
Nakabuye Hilda Flavia
A Ugandan climate activist, farmer, and the founder of Fridays for Future Uganda. Driven by her firsthand experiences of climate change, she advocates for environmental justice, gender equality, and racial equity while leading one of Africa’s largest youth climate movements. Hilda has championed campaigns to protect Lake Victoria, oppose fossil fuel expansion, and elevate African voices in global climate conversations. She has spoken at major international forums, including the Conference of the Parties (COP) and World Mayors Summits, contributed to The Climate Book by Greta Thunberg, and received international recognition for her leadership and advocacy.
Mbabazi Beatrice
A community leader and women’s empowerment advocate from Uganda. She works closely with young mothers and vulnerable girls through skills training, maternal health support, and emotional wellbeing programmes that help women build confidence, resilience, and sustainable livelihoods. Passionate about gender equity, climate justice, and mental wellbeing, Beatrice is dedicated to creating safe spaces where women and young people can heal, grow, and thrive. She hopes to use the Fellowship to strengthen her facilitation and mental health support skills in service of her community.
Ndungutse Patrick Musisi
A passionate social entrepreneur and climate resilience advocate from Mpigi District, Uganda. He is the co-founder of Maripat Food Solutions, a climate-smart agribusiness that reduces post-harvest fruit losses through value addition while supporting smallholder farmers with improved market access and income opportunities. Driven by a deep concern for the impacts of climate change on food security and youth wellbeing, Patrick is committed to community empowerment and sustainable development. Through the East Africa Resilience Fellowship, he hopes to strengthen his leadership and facilitation skills to better support young people in building emotional resilience and taking meaningful climate action.
Mondera Zakia Munawwara
A climate justice advocate and Development Studies student at Kyambogo University. As Vice President of the United Nations Association of Uganda (UNAU) Kyambogo Chapter, her work focuses on bridging grassroots community action with national policy frameworks. She is particularly passionate about environmental sustainability, waste management, and the circular economy. Guided by her personal “candle philosophy,” Zakia believes that true leadership is about empowering others and sharing opportunities so that communities can achieve lasting, climate-resilient impact together.
Akello Patience
A community development and social justice student at Kyambogo University and an emerging youth leader committed to advancing climate justice, mental health, and human rights. She serves as Vice President of the Green African Youth Organization, Kyambogo Chapter, Faculty Representative for Special Needs with the United Nations Association of Uganda, and Projects Manager for the Community Development and Social Justice Students Association. As the founder of Catalyst Crest Foundation, Patience leads initiatives that support children, women, and street-connected young people through advocacy, environmental action, and community development. She is driven by a vision of creating equitable, resilient, and inclusive communities across East Africa.
Umurerwa Shimo Yvette
A Rwandan agripreneur and environmental advocate from Rutsiro District. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Soil Science from the University of Rwanda and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Environmental Studies at the University of Lay Adventists of Kigali (UNILAK). Yvette is the founder of FARMIZA Ltd and serves as the General Secretary of AGRIORGANIC FARM Ltd, where she promotes sustainable agriculture, environmental conservation, and community empowerment. Passionate about supporting farmers, particularly women and young people, she is committed to building resilient communities through collaboration, leadership, and sustainable development initiatives.
Benjamin Manishimwe
A Rwandan agronomist, researcher, and youth leader dedicated to bridging data with community voices. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Horticulture and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Environmental Economics and Natural Resource Management at the University of Lay Adventists of Kigali (UNILAK). Guided by his faith and a deep commitment to climate justice, Benjamin has trained more than 120 community agents in sustainable agricultural practices and previously chaired a USAID Youth Advisory Council focused on creating decent employment opportunities for young people. Having experienced the emotional demands of grassroots activism firsthand, he is passionate about building resilient networks where young changemakers can address burnout, heal, and lead lasting environmental change together.
Ishimwe Pacifique
A public health and nutrition professional advancing resilient food systems, youth wellbeing, and community-led development across Rwanda. As the Technical Lead of Heza Initiative, Chair of the World Food Forum Rwanda Nutrition Security and Food Systems Working Group, and an Act4Food Youth Leader, he champions youth-driven solutions that strengthen nutrition, climate resilience, mental wellbeing, and sustainable food systems. Pacifique is passionate about empowering communities to develop healthier, more resilient futures through collaboration and innovation.
Blessing Iyonsenga Aline
An academic researcher and agricultural engineer specialising in irrigation and drainage. Her work focuses on advancing sustainable agriculture and climate resilience through research and practical community engagement. Aline has contributed to several international conferences and is passionate about translating research into practical solutions that strengthen resilience, promote mental wellbeing, and support sustainable community development. She is committed to empowering communities through evidence-based approaches that create lasting social and environmental impact.
Kamanzi Claudine
A social entrepreneur and environmental leader passionate about restoring nature, strengthening food systems, and supporting farming communities across Rwanda. She is the founder of Forest4Life, an initiative focused on restoring degraded landscapes through native tree planting and community-led conservation. Claudine holds a Bachelor of Science in Conservation Agriculture from the Rwanda Institute for Conservation Agriculture (RICA) and has extensive experience in conservation agriculture, agribusiness, and farmer training. She also leads the award-winning FruiFresh project, which developed an innovative charcoal-based cooling system to reduce post-harvest tomato losses in off-grid communities, and serves as Deputy Chapter Lead of the World Food Forum Rwanda Chapter. Through her work as an AgriInfluencer, Claudine shares knowledge on sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship, inspiring young people to become active changemakers.
Grace Batamuriza
A climate advocate and agricultural communicator dedicated to advancing climate-smart agriculture and sustainable food systems. Through her role with the World Food Forum Rwanda Chapter, where she serves in Climate Action and Natural Resource Management, she champions sustainable agricultural practices, environmental stewardship, and landscape-level approaches to climate resilience. With a background in Soil Science, Grace is passionate about empowering young people, promoting sustainable land management, and fostering collective action to strengthen food security, rural livelihoods, and resilient communities.
Innocent Cosmas Msoka
A Tanzanian changemaker working at the intersection of climate action, food systems, Indigenous knowledge, and youth engagement. His work focuses on connecting grassroots community realities with policy and storytelling to ensure climate and development conversations remain inclusive, practical, and community-led. Innocent has collaborated with youth groups, Indigenous communities, and regional initiatives to advance climate justice, strengthen food systems, and promote youth leadership. He is particularly passionate about creating spaces where young people can learn, reflect, and build resilience while remaining emotionally grounded in their work.
Ikupakyala Elius Mwakalinga
An entrepreneur, designer, and manufacturing advocate from Tanzania. She is the founder of Akanunu Atelier, a creative manufacturing studio exploring sustainable furniture, circular design, and hands-on maker education. Passionate about reimagining Africa’s manufacturing future, Ikupakyala uses storytelling, design, and community engagement to inspire young people to see climate action as an opportunity for innovation, creativity, and economic growth. Through workshops, public speaking, and digital content, she champions practical, locally driven solutions that make sustainable manufacturing more accessible and impactful.
Fildaross Filton Swai
A social entrepreneur and nonprofit leader dedicated to transforming children’s lives through sustainable school feeding solutions. As the Founder and Executive Director of My School Plate Foundation, she has led the delivery of more than 200,000 nutritious meals to school children while developing innovative, technology-driven approaches to education, nutrition, and community wellbeing. Fildaross is also passionate about youth leadership, public speaking, and social innovation, regularly engaging young people through platforms such as the Uongozi Talks Podcast. Her vision is to build one of Africa’s most impactful school feeding systems, ensuring every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.
Regina Adolf Mlay
A anzanian climate tech innovator, entrepreneur, and youth leader driving technology-enabled solutions for climate resilience and sustainable development. Recognised among Tanzania’s Top 50 Young Women Entrepreneurs of 2024, Regina has built her leadership journey around creating impactful, youth-led solutions that address climate and social challenges. Her work spans climate action, sustainable food systems, STEM education, and youth empowerment through initiatives including GAIN Tanzania, the United Nations Youth Fellowship, and several community-based programmes. Beginning her leadership journey through grassroots literacy and mentorship with the Arusha Readers Club, Regina is passionate about using innovation, collaboration, and compassionate leadership to empower the next generation of changemakers.
Regina Ndanu Angeline
A Teacher Leader with Teach For Kenya, a sustainability advocate, and a graduate in Environmental Studies and Community Development. She is passionate about climate action, environmental education, and empowering young people to become agents of change. Her work focuses on creating engaging learning experiences that connect education with real-world challenges through climate resilience and innovative circular solutions that transform waste into opportunities for learning, livelihoods, and community development. Regina is committed to building resilient communities where young people lead positive social and environmental change.
William Mwema Kathanzu
A young leader, educator, environmental and climate action advocate, and community development practitioner. He is passionate about youth leadership, volunteerism, and building resilient and inclusive communities through community-led solutions. William believes in creating safe spaces where young people can learn, lead, collaborate, and amplify their voices. Through environmental action, mentorship, and community engagement, he inspires young people to become confident, resilient changemakers who contribute to more sustainable and inclusive communities.
Francis Mungai Githinji
A mental health advocate, environmentalist, and curious researcher who believes that people and the planet heal best when both are cared for with equal intention. He has a particular interest in psychosis and schizophrenia and hopes to deepen understanding while fostering greater compassion for those living with these conditions. Whether leading conversations, spending time in nature, or exploring new ideas, Francis strives to create spaces where people feel safe, seen, hopeful, and at home in the world.
Peris Mutena
A psychologist and the founder of Mindful Moments Generation in Nakuru, Kenya. Through her work, she creates accessible and safe spaces where university students can learn practical approaches to managing stress and anxiety while reconnecting with nature. Her interests extend to behavioural eco-architecture, exploring how thoughtfully designed spaces can positively influence mental wellbeing, sustainable living, and environmental stewardship. Passionate about prevention, advocacy, and systems change, Peris is committed to making mental health conversations more accessible through community engagement and digital storytelling. She hopes to strengthen her leadership, collaborate with fellow changemakers, and co-create sustainable, community-driven solutions that improve wellbeing across Kenya and beyond.
Alex Muriiki Josphat
A sociologist, SRHR and mental health champion, and community researcher rooted in Kilifi County, Kenya. He is currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Sociology at Pwani University and has spent the past three years leading grassroots work in monitoring and evaluation, peer mentorship, and youth-centred research. Alex has partnered with organisations including the Aga Khan Foundation, Farm Africa, TICAH, and KEMRI Wellcome Trust. He is deeply passionate about youth empowerment, climate action, comprehensive sexuality education, and integrating AI and ICT into learning spaces along the Kenyan coast.
Aisha Nyamvula Ali
A youth leader and community development practitioner from Kilifi County, Kenya, passionate about advancing youth leadership, climate resilience, and social justice. She has experience facilitating community engagement, youth empowerment, and rights-based initiatives through youth-led organisations and partnerships. Growing up in a community facing poverty, climate vulnerability, and limited opportunities inspired her commitment to creating inclusive spaces where young people can lead change. Through the East Africa Resilience Fellowship, Aisha looks forward to strengthening community resilience, promoting wellbeing, and empowering young people to develop locally driven solutions for a more sustainable future.
Mmbone Sylviah
An agricultural professional completing her studies in General Agriculture and Community Development at Bukura Agricultural College. She brings strong practical expertise in sustainable agribusiness through her work with Mzuri Organics and the Inclusive Contract Farming programme. Working alongside GIZ, Sylviah supports the development of vermicomposting systems and trains smallholder farmers in sustainable agricultural practices. Passionate about rural empowerment and climate-smart agriculture, she looks forward to using the East Africa Resilience Fellowship to strengthen sustainable food systems and expand her impact across communities in Kenya and beyond.
Kerry Phinias Joseph
An emerging leader working with Mzuri Organics and is passionate about advancing regenerative agriculture, climate resilience, and the bio-circular economy across East Africa. He has led several initiatives at Mzuri Organics, including the Biz-ingira Project and the Inclusive Regen Circles programme, both aimed at strengthening community wellbeing and sustainable development. Kerry is committed to building resilient food systems, restoring ecosystems, and improving livelihoods for farming communities through organic farming, climate-smart agriculture, environmental stewardship, and digital innovation. Through the Fellowship, he hopes to deepen his leadership skills, expand his network, and co-create practical, community-driven solutions that inspire lasting change.
