From Beauty Queen to Environmental Champion
Tomi Salami, the 2012 Miss Tourism Nigeria, has long been a prominent figure in advocating for sustainable practices. Leveraging her extensive experience in beauty, tourism, arts, culture, and climate action, she has transitioned from the pageant stage to the forefront of environmental activism. Her latest venture, the “Catch Them Young” Environmental Awareness Convention, is a testament to her dedication to fostering environmental responsibility among young Lagosians.
“Catch Them Young” Environmental Awareness Convention
Launched with the theme "Our Cleaner, Greener Future," the “Catch Them Young” Convention aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals on Sanitation, Clean Energy, Climate Action, and Environmental Preservation. The core mission of this initiative is to instill a deep understanding of environmental issues among young people and empower them to become proactive in their communities.
Engaging and Interactive Sessions
The convention features interactive sessions led by industry experts, environmental activists, celebrities, and other inspirational figures in Nigeria. These sessions are designed to be both educational and engaging, encouraging students to think critically about their role in preserving the environment. By involving such diverse and influential voices, Salami ensures that the message of sustainability resonates deeply with the youth.
Educational Resources and Incentives
After these sessions, students receive environmental-themed comic books and goodie bags, all provided for free. These resources serve as both educational tools and reminders of the importance of environmental stewardship. By making the learning process fun and accessible, Salami hopes to inspire lasting change in the attitudes and behaviors of young people.
Support from the Lagos State Government
The initiative has garnered substantial support from the Lagos State Government, particularly through the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources. This backing not only adds credibility to the project but also underscores the government's commitment to addressing environmental issues. The collaboration aims to inspire a ripple effect, leading to broader environmental initiatives and a more sustainable future for Nigeria.
Salami’s commitment to humanitarian causes is well-documented. Through her non-profit, the Aurora International Charity Foundation, she has impacted over 30,000 individuals in Nigeria via various platforms focused on education, welfare, empowerment, and health. The “Catch Them Young” Convention is a continuation of this legacy, specifically targeting the highly impressionable younger generation.
Planting Seeds of Sustainability
Salami believes that educating students is akin to planting seeds of awareness that will grow into a culture of sustainability. By engaging students early, the initiative aims to establish them as young Environmental Ambassadors for their communities. These young leaders will then propagate the message of environmental responsibility, creating a ripple effect that extends beyond Lagos.
Looking Ahead
As the “Catch Them Young” Environmental Awareness Convention kicks off in Lagos, the hope is that this initiative will inspire similar programs across Nigeria and Africa. Salami and her team envision a future where environmental consciousness is a fundamental part of education and daily life, leading to a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable world.
In conclusion, Tomi Salami’s transition from beauty queen to eco-leader is a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can have on society. Her dedication to educating and empowering the youth of Lagos to become environmental champions is not only inspiring but also crucial for the future of our planet. Through initiatives like the “Catch Them Young” Convention, Salami is paving the way for a generation that prioritizes sustainability and is equipped to address the environmental challenges of tomorrow.
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