Kalkidan Esayas (ELP 2023) | Consultant and Climate Change Advocate, Ethiopia

As a climate change advocate and the founder of Kal Consulting, my work has continually reinforced the deep connection between sustainability, biodiversity, and collective future. The climate crisis and biodiversity loss are among the greatest challenges we face today, but they also present opportunities for transformation through collective action.

Biodiversity conservation is critical for the health of ecosystems and human communities alike. Healthy ecosystems provide essential services – clean water, fertile soil, and climate regulation – which are crucial for our survival. In Ethiopia, where agriculture is the primary livelihood for 85% of the population, protecting nature is not just an environmental issue, but an economic one. By integrating sustainable practices into agriculture, we can create systems that regenerate both nature and economy. Unpredictable weather patterns, shifting agricultural zones, and extreme events threaten food security and economic stability. This is where the need for sustainable solutions becomes clear. My efforts, particularly in promoting eco-farming innovations, aim to create systems that both preserve biodiversity and ensure agricultural resilience.

One of my biggest milestones in this area was my participation in the Eco-Farm Innovation competition, where my pitch on promoting clean energy and sustainable farming practices gained recognition. This experience has fueled my commitment to creating scalable solutions for sustainable agriculture that can be replicated across Ethiopia and beyond.

Additionally, my work on Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative which mobilized over 8,000 youth to plant trees and combat deforestation has been a key part of my advocacy for climate action. This initiative has not only helped mitigate climate impacts but has also fostered a sense of environmental responsibility among young people, empowering them to become active leaders in sustainability. Through workshops and hands-on projects, young people are not only learning about sustainable practices but also becoming influential in the fight against climate change. Their creativity and energy are vital for driving the innovation needed to address environmental challenges.

I’ve also been honored to win the Women and Enterprise Development Fellowship, which provided me with the opportunity to attend a prestigious program in India. This fellowship was an invaluable experience that expanded my perspective on green entrepreneurship and sustainable development. It gave me the chance to learn from other women leaders and innovators, while also deepening my understanding of how enterprise can drive environmental change.

In addition to my consultancy work, I am proud to be a founder and board member of a US-based exchange program that supports the implementation of various programs focused on climate change, community mobilization, and sustainable development. Through this platform, we have successfully connected individuals and organizations across borders, facilitating collaboration on global challenges and empowering communities to drive their own solutions for a sustainable future.

I’ve had the privilege of giving speeches at both international and national conferences on topics such as green entrepreneurship, green economy, and sustainable development. These platforms have allowed me to share insights on how integrating sustainability into business practices can drive economic growth while preserving our natural resources. Participating in events like Climate Action Week has further deepened my understanding of the global climate movement and the importance of collective efforts in addressing the climate crisis.

Additionally, through my participation in international programs like the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) awarded by the US State Department and the Environmental Leadership Program at UC Berkeley, I’ve gained valuable insights into global climate conversations. These experiences have emphasized the importance of collaboration and partnerships in achieving impactful, scalable solutions.

Call to action: Through collaboration and innovation, let’s safeguard biodiversity and create a sustainable future where both people and nature thrive. 

Finally, I look forward to networking and sharing my experience as a Beahrs ELP alumni.

Blog photos provided by the blog author, Kalkidan Esayas.