Climate action begins with understanding, and Temilade Salami has made expanding that understanding among young Africans a defining part of her work. Known as Global Temi, the Nigerian climate education and communications expert and author has built initiatives focused on equipping young people with the knowledge, tools, and resources needed to participate in climate action across Africa.
As the founder and Executive Director of EcoChampions, Temilade leads an organisation established to bridge the climate education gap. Through the organisation, she works to provide young Africans with access to resources that strengthen their understanding of climate change and prepare them to contribute to solutions within their communities.
Temilade studied Marine Science at the University of Lagos, where she earned her bachelor’s degree. She later earned a master’s degree in Environment, Development and Policy from the University of Sussex, strengthening an educational journey closely connected to her work in environmental and climate education.
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Through EcoChampions, Temilade has placed young people at the heart of her climate advocacy. Her work is driven by the conviction that education is essential to meaningful climate action and that young Africans need access to climate knowledge and relevant skills to understand and respond to the effects of climate change.
Building on this commitment, she launched the Climate Education Leaders Fellowship in Africa, an initiative focused on strengthening climate education leadership across the continent. The fellowship extends her work beyond raising awareness by supporting the development of people who can contribute to climate education within African communities.
Temilade’s work has also connected her with international networks focused on education and sustainable development. She is a member of the UNESCO SDG4Youth Network and has served as a Global Partnership for Education Youth Leader with the World Bank, contributing to platforms that engage young people in conversations around education and development.
Beyond her organisational leadership and advocacy, Temilade has used writing to advance environmental education. She has authored two illustrated environmental books for children, extending her work in environmental and climate education through writing.
Her contributions have also earned recognition. In 2020, Temilade was named Nigeria’s 25 Under 25 Leader in Energy and Sustainability. In 2018, she was selected as a United States Consulate Carrington Youth Fellow, named a Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency Ambassador Against Noise Pollution, and recognised as an Idea Hub Africa Talent of the Future.
At the heart of Temilade’s work is her advocacy for greater attention to climate education. She has highlighted gaps in climate knowledge, skills, and access to education financing that can prevent young people from participating fully in climate action. Her position is clear that equipping young people with climate education can strengthen their ability to understand environmental challenges and contribute to solutions.
Through EcoChampions, the Climate Education Leaders Fellowship, her environmental writing, and her participation in international education networks, Temilade Salami continues to advance climate education and youth participation across Africa. Her work reflects the growing contribution of African women to climate action while creating opportunities for young people to gain the knowledge and skills required to participate in building a more sustainable future.
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