Fifty three passionate young people from churches across South Africa, Lesotho, and Botswana came together for an unforgettable four-day Climate Justice Bootcamp at the Golden Gate Wel Geoff Youth Centre from December 3rd to 6th Dec.
We kicked things off with Ms. Naledi Matima, who hyped us up about the Climate YES movement and how far we’ve come. Ms. Maduvha Matodzi from SANParks blew our minds with insights about how climate change is affecting biodiversity. Day 1 wrapped with a thought-provoking Bible study on Romans 8:18-25, making us reflect on how creation is “groaning” and calling for action.
Day 2 was all about digging deeper. Abongile Mpu from SAYCCC showed us how theology connects with climate action, while Tshegofatso Lekgetho from SAFCEI taught us about climate adaptation and mitigation. The highlight? Creating awareness posters to spread the message far and wide. Letago Kgomoeswana, repping Climate YES and the African Climate Alliance (ACA), inspired us with the story of youth leading South Africa’s first climate court case. If we’re the generation we’ve been waiting for, this proves it!
Later, Omphile Tshiping hosted a dynamic panel on mining, climate change, and biodiversity with experts like Dr. Rebotsamang Shago and other frontline activists. We dived into how mining affects communities, health, and ecosystems—and what a just energy transition could look like. Bino then sparked a powerful conversation on climate justice as a human rights issue, leading us to draft a statement of action.
Social media advocacy took the spotlight when Naledi shared pro tips on how to mobilize online for change. Plus, a session on report writing reminded us of the importance of accountability within our movements.
As the bootcamp neared its end, Letago guided us through how climate change impacts young people—touching on unemployment, mental health, food insecurity, and gender-based violence. This was the moment we committed to personal actions for change. Tshepo Mohapi introduced eco-justice theology, challenging us to care for creation in ways that are just and fair. We also learned about invasive plants versus indigenous ones—knowledge we’ll carry into our eco-restoration efforts.
Finally, we mapped out how to bring these lessons back to our communities. From advocacy to awareness campaigns like #CancelCoal, we’re ready to make climate change a priority in our spaces. Oh, and it wasn’t all work! SANParks kept the vibes alive with outdoor team-building and a super fun Potjie Kos competition.
Intense learning was interspersed with enjoying the beauty of this amazing part of God’s creation, where the young people were also able to hike and some even were brave enough to abseil! You will not protect what you do not love – and falling in love with God’s creation was an important part of the camp
We closed the bootcamp with a commission service and an early-morning hike where Revd Hendricks sent us off with a benediction. For many of us, this was more than just an event—it was a launchpad to confidently engage in local and global climate dialogues, carrying the voices of young people of faith.
Huge thanks to Climate YES, Green Anglicans, Act Ubumbano, and SAFCEI for making this incredible experience possible. Let’s keep the momentum going!
