Amidst honking rickshaws and the indelible experience of Namak Mandi of Peshawar, Shahab Ud Din, an English Works 2021 alumnus, isn’t just teaching; he’s igniting a movement. Armed with an Alumni Small Grant and a burning passion for environmental action, Shahab’s “Climate Dialogue Peshawar” tackles one of the biggest challenges of our time: climate change. This isn’t just a project; it’s a platform for youth to raise awareness, advocate for change, and shape a greener future.
Shahab’s journey towards environmental activism wasn’t born overnight. Years spent witnessing the consequences of unsustainable practices and advocating for community development fueled his conviction. His diverse background, spanning social work and civic engagement, equipped him with the tools to mobilize young minds as the driving force for change which in this particular Alumni Small Grant (ASG) was over 17K beneficiaries.
Climate Dialogue Peshawar isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. It’s a three-pronged strategy to engage diverse stakeholders. First, it educates communities, shedding light on the link between everyday actions and environmental impact. Interactive workshops and awareness campaigns demystify complex issues and empower individuals to make informed choices. Schools become hubs for learning, where students delve into climate science, explore renewable energy solutions, and even hold eco-friendly competitions.
Second, the project empowers young people to become environmental champions. Advocacy training equips them with the skills to articulate their concerns and champion sustainable practices. Malik Daniyal, a 21-year-old videographer, uses his lens to tell the stories of nature and inspire action. Meanwhile, Isma Tauqeer, a teacher, witnesses her students transform into eco-warriors, using art and innovation to advocate for a greener future.
Finally, Climate Dialogue Peshawar fosters collaboration and drives systemic change. By bringing together youth, government officials, civil society leaders, and corporate representatives, the project creates a platform for meaningful dialogue and strategic action. The culminating Climate Dialogue event isn’t just a conference; it’s a catalyst for progress, where diverse voices unite to chart a sustainable path forward.
Shahab’s initiative wouldn’t have reached its full potential without the unwavering support of the U.S. Mission and PUAN. Their collaboration provided crucial resources, expertise, and networks, amplifying the project’s reach and impact. Throughout the journey, Shahab deeply appreciated their commitment to collective action, which fueled his resolve to drive positive change beyond Peshawar’s borders.
As Climate Dialogue Peshawar continues to empower youth and inspire action, Shahab Ud Din remains at the forefront, a testament to the transformative power of youth engagement that young people can lead the way towards a more sustainable and equitable future.
