Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr OBE Presents Cheques to Bloomberg Youth Climate Action Fund Winners
On Monday the 5 August 2024, Freetown’s Mayor, Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr OBE, presented cheques to nine outstanding winners of the Bloomberg Youth Climate Action Fund in a highly anticipated ceremonial event. The fund, which was launched in May 2024, is a collaborative effort between Bloomberg Philanthropies and the United Cities, aimed at empowering young innovators to tackle climate-related challenges in their communities.
The recipients of this year’s microgrants are shining examples of the innovative spirit driving Sierra Leone’s youth. Each winner received $4,500 to support their climate-focused projects, all designed to create tangible environmental impact at the grassroots level.
One standout project comes from Abdulai Barrie, who is developing a groundbreaking app designed to deliver real-time disaster warnings. This app promises to be a game-changer in improving community preparedness and resilience against natural disasters—a critical need in a region increasingly vulnerable to climate change.
“These young leaders are taking bold steps to address the most pressing environmental issues of our time,” said Mayor Aki-Sawyerr. “Their innovation and dedication give me hope for a sustainable future. I am particularly excited about Abdulai Barrie’s app, which has the potential to save lives and protect communities from the devastating impacts of climate change.”
The ceremony was more than just a cheque presentation; it was a celebration of youth-led ingenuity and a call to action for others to contribute to the fight against climate change. As these young innovators embark on their projects, they carry the hopes of their communities with them, signaling a brighter and more resilient future for Freetown and beyond.
As Abdulai Barrie and his fellow winners continue to develop their projects, the Bloomberg Youth Climate Action Fund stands as a testament to the power of youth-driven solutions in building a sustainable world. With the support of leaders like Mayor Aki-Sawyerr and global partners like Bloomberg Philanthropies, these young change-makers are poised to make a significant impact on the climate landscape of Sierra Leone and beyond.
