UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Vanessa Nakate visits the BU African Studies Center

Prominent Ugandan climate activist Vanessa Nakate visited the African Studies Center in September to led an inspiring week filled with powerful conversations and meaningful connections. Ms. Nakate is a young African leader who has spoken at COP 26 and Davos, is a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and founder of the Rise Up movement for young African climate activists.  She was one of the nominees for the 2023 Nobel Peace Prize alongside Greta Thurnberg.

From engaging with the youth climate corps at Eastie Farm to addressing the dynamic audience with Institute for Global Sustainability, every moment was a step towards a sustainable future. She led a packed audience of young students for an enlightening discussions with Winsor School and Boston Latin School. She visited the Simmons University community, and our very own Africa Today class. We wrapped it all up tonight at Pardee’s African Studies Center’s 70th-anniversary gala—a decade-defining event. We extend a huge thank you to Nobel Prize nominee Vanessa Nakate for a week that fueled change and ignited passion!

Read Vanessa Nakate’s “Why I became a climate activist” article in the Boston Globe, October 16, 2023.