Empowering youth for gender-responsive climate action

The Eco-Champions Program, initiated by SOS Children’s Villages International
Germany, in partnership with national offices in Jordan, Uganda, Nigeria, Namibia,
Somalia, and Sierra Leone, empowers young climate activists, especially women
and girls, from vulnerable backgrounds. Through training, mentorship, community
building, and resources, the program supports them in transforming ideas into
impactful projects for sustainable community-based climate action.

OUR VISION AND MISSION

We envision local communities leading gender-responsive climate action to enhance the resilience of children, youth, and families. By empowering young people,particularly young women, we aim to build sustainable, climate-resilient communities equipped to face future challenges..

Core Program Goals

Equip strong young people from difficult backgrounds, especially young women and girls, with skills, networks, resources and opportunities to drive local climate action and personal growth.Build awareness on youth driven climate action and support young female Eco champions to speak up Foster partnership and a supportive community for climate action and resilience 

The Eco Champions program will run from 2024 to 2027, with two cohorts over the course of the four year period. The first cohort will take place between 2024 and 2025, and will focus on 5 African countries and Jordan, targeting vulnerable communities where the program can have the most impact. SOS Children’s Villages, active in over 130 countries, supports children without parental care or at risk of losing it, ensuring they grow with the care and relationships needed to thrive. Through the YouthPower program, over 1,500 young leaders from 77 countries have launched SDG-focused projects, positively impacting 30,000+ people, showcasing a strong commitment to youth empowerment and lasting change. Eco Champions, young people (16–26) from vulnerable communities, mostly women, drive climate justice initiatives. Their projects promote awareness, climate education, waste management, and sustainable agriculture, supporting key SDGs.