Young Voices Rise for Nature: Students Champion Climate Action in Grand Cape Mount’s First-Ever Green Club Conservation Essay Competition
Robertsport City was transformed into a hub of youthful energy and environmental passion as students from across Grand Cape Mount County gathered from October 29–30 for the Green Club Conservation Essay Competition a groundbreaking youth-driven event organized by BudgIT Liberia, with support from Conservation International (CI) and the Global Environment Facility (GEF).
Under the theme “Our Voice for Nature: Nurturing Eco-Conscious Youth in Protecting Lake Piso’s Ecosystem,” the two-day event sparked fresh environmental consciousness and showcased the creativity of Liberia’s next generation of climate champions.
“This initiative is a strategic intervention to build stronger minds and greener hearts,” said Mr. Abraham Varney, Team Lead of Budgit Liberia. “It bridges academic and environmental development by improving writing skills while inspiring students to value and protect Liberia’s rich natural ecosystems especially the mangroves that sustain Lake Piso.”
Dozens of students from elementary and high schools participated, penning powerful essays on climate change, mangrove preservation, waste management, and sustainable living.
Their words, filled with urgency and hope, reflected both the challenges and possibilities of Liberia’s environmental future.
The Principal of Robertsport High School, speaking on behalf of all participating institutions, hailed the initiative as “transformative and timely.” He praised BudgIT Liberia for creating an avenue where students could express their creativity, deepen their environmental awareness, and develop vital life skills.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) representative at the ceremony also commended BudgIT’s vision, describing the competition as “a beacon of hope for a generation that must lead Liberia’s green transformation.” He urged schools across the country to embrace similar youth-centered environmental programs.
After intense rounds of evaluation, three students emerged as the top winners of the 2025 Green Club Conservation Essay Competition are : Othello J. Nyemah (First Place) Abigail McCarthy (Second Place) Amie Kemokai (Third Place) respectively.
Speaking with passion and humility, Othello J. Nyemah, the first-place winner, said his victory was more than personal achievement it was a call to action.
“This is not just a prize; it’s a reminder that young people have the power to shape a greener, more sustainable Liberia,” he said. “I dedicate this win to every student who believes that change begins with awareness and action.”
Beyond the competition, Budgit Liberia and its partners hosted Climate Conversation Forums in participating schools interactive discussions on waste management, climate resilience, and sustainable living that encouraged students to translate their ideas into tangible community projects.
The event concluded with the launch of a Youth Conservation Network, designed to sustain school-based environmental initiatives across Grand Cape Mount County.
Key Highlights from the 2025 Green Club Essay Competition:
Over 20 students participated across elementary and senior high school levels, The top three essays will be published in Budgit Liberia’s “Youth for Nature” digital bulletin, Students will receive mentorship opportunities from environmental professionals, The event strengthened local awareness on mangrove protection and Lake Piso’s ecosystem among others.
As the sun set over the shimmering waters of Lake Piso, the message from Robertsport was clear Liberia’s youth are no longer silent spectators in the climate conversation. They are thinkers, writers, and advocates demanding action to protect their future.
Budgit Liberia reaffirmed its commitment to empowering young environmental leaders and advancing climate literacy across the country.
“The energy and creativity of these students prove that Liberia’s green future is already in motion,” Mr. Varney concluded. “All they need is a platform and Budgit is proud to provide it.”
With their pens, voices, and visions for a cleaner Liberia, these young conservationists have declared their message loud and clear: the fight for nature begins now, and it begins with them.
About the Author
