Green economy pathways for young people
Grow conservation leadership and youth development pathways
The Conservation Leadership Project starts in Grade 6 and runs through to Grade 12. Seven years of environmental learning, leadership development and career exposure, with the same learners returning each year.
Seven years, one cohort at a time
Learners come back year after year, from Grade 6 through to Grade 12. Holding a cohort together for seven years is the hardest part of this work.
For many young people in Cape Town, opportunities in the green economy remain out of reach. Limited access to nature, professional networks, training and career exposure make it difficult to imagine a future in conservation or environmental leadership.
Through repeated experiences in nature, mentorship and practical conservation activities, young people gain the knowledge, confidence and connections needed to pursue further study, employment and leadership opportunities within the green economy.
Participants build leadership skills, contribute to community initiatives and find career options many had not encountered before.
Seven cohorts have now completed the programme, progressing into further study, internships, volunteer leadership and careers across conservation, environmental management and related sectors.
In their words
“I never truly understood how important nature is to our daily lives, or that I, as a young person, had a role to play and could be part of the solution. The project opened my eyes to all of that.”
Hannah Moses · joined 2019, graduated 2025
Now studying Nature Conservation, and volunteering with the project she came through.
“The activities did not only teach me about the environment. They helped me learn about social issues affecting young people around me, and gave me the confidence to advocate for what I believe in.”
Leah Curtis · joined 2019
Completing an internship with the Department of Environmental Affairs, in the Pollution and Chemicals Management Unit.
This year in numbers
Financial year ended 28 February 2026.
“I have watched learners arrive uncertain of themselves and develop, year on year, into young people capable of leading their own community’s environmental work.”
Tammy-Lee Solomons · Student Education Manager
Graduates are progressing into tertiary education, internships, environmental careers and community leadership roles.
