The Third Sustainability Leadership Journey (SLJ), held in St. Lucia, South Africa in September 2024, brought together passionate young leaders and conservationists from across the globe to engage in hands-on environmental stewardship and discussions on wetland and lake conservation. This transformative event, organized by the Global Nature Fund and WILDTRUST, empowered participants from 17 countries, equipping them with the skills and network necessary to tackle global conservation challenges.
Over five days, participants immersed themselves in the natural beauty of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, learning about its biodiversity and the importance of wetlands in combating climate change. Field visits, interactive workshops, and leadership training sessions formed the backbone of the journey, emphasizing the critical role of youth in conservation and sustainability.
Reflections from the Journey
Several participants shared their experiences, reflecting on how the SLJ has shaped their perspectives and strengthened their commitment to environmental conservation.
Jessy Baloyi, a water quality expert from Malawi, found the SLJ to be a pivotal experience both personally and professionally. She highlighted the significance of the hands-on training in wetland and lake management, stating, “The knowledge gained on innovative conservation strategies, coupled with insights shared by experienced mentors, has further strengthened my commitment to advancing sustainable practices that protect water quality and biodiversity.”
Similarly, Priyanka Kalita, a conservationist from India, shared how the journey left her inspired and motivated. “This experience brought together passionate individuals from around the globe to share insights on environmental and wetland management,” she said. “I returned home with a wealth of ideas and cherished memories, inspired by the dedication of others working tirelessly for the conservation of nature and wetlands.”
Participants also expressed their gratitude for the meaningful connections forged during the journey. Armstrong Gumbi, from South Africa, noted that the SLJ provided a platform for diverse exchanges and collaborations. He shared, “This journey enabled an organic exchange of ideas, thoughts, and discussions on challenges we face in conservation. I formed friendships and am now part of a network of changemakers working toward wetland protection.”
Empowering the Next Generation of Conservation Leaders
The SLJ emphasizes the importance of building leadership skills among young professionals, who will be the driving force behind future environmental initiatives. Participants like Sameen Salah, from the Youth Engaged in Wetlands (YEW) network, recognized the SLJ as an incredible opportunity to collaborate with like-minded individuals. “This gathering was not just an exchange of information but a celebration of learning from one another and understanding the importance of wetlands for biodiversity and climate resilience,” she explained.
The training sessions focused on nature-based solutions, biodiversity conservation, and ecosystem management, equipping participants with the tools to create meaningful change in their home countries.
Looking Forward: SLJ 2025 in Colombia
As the Third SLJ concluded, participants left with renewed energy and ideas for applying what they had learned to their conservation work. The journey continues, with the Fourth Sustainability Leadership Journey set to take place in Colombia in 2025. This upcoming event will offer new opportunities for young leaders to engage in global conservation efforts, explore Colombia’s rich natural landscapes, and further the mission of protecting the world’s lakes and wetlands.
The Living Lakes Network, along with its partners, remains committed to empowering the next generation of environmental leaders. With each journey, the network strengthens its collective efforts to address climate change, protect biodiversity, and build a sustainable future for lakes and wetlands worldwide.
