IHRAM Laureate Mbizo Chirasha in conversation with South African Youth Develepment Londiwe Ngobeni

MC: Who is Londiwe Ngobeni and what is she known about?

Londiwe Ngobeni: Londiwe Ngobeni is a 29-year-old sustainability innovator from Limpopo Province, South Africa-a region that faces daily challenges of water scarcity. Driven by the urgent need to find solutions for underserved communities, she is known for developing practical, community-based innovations aimed at addressing water access and promoting environmental sustainability. Her work centers on creating sustainable systems that improve the quality of life in rural areas, particularly through clean water access, food sustainability, and youth empowerment.

MC: How long have you been doing developmental and youth representative work?
Londiwe Ngobeni: I have been involved in developmental and youth representative work for nearly two years. About a year ago, I officially launched my community-focused project, which centers on youth and women empowerment through sustainable development. The project is still in its developmental phase, beginning as an idea that was nurtured and shaped through the be Visioneers: The Mercedes-Benz Fellowship. The fellowship provided me with the tools and guidance to move from ideation to prototyping and pilot testing. Although the project is still evolving, it has already begun to gain traction-especially among individuals and community members who resonate with the urgency for change.

MC: Where do you draw your inspiration from?
Londiwe Ngobeni: I believe that when you speak about change, you must also act on it. My inspiration comes from the daily struggles I witness in my community-especially the lack of access to clean water and sustainable food sources. I am inspired by the resilience of the youth and women around me and by the belief that with the right support, they can become agents of their own change. I am also motivated by the idea that solutions don't need to come from outside; they can be born from within the very communities that face the challenges.

MC: How are young people coping in South Africa with regard to employment?
Londiwe Ngobeni: Young people in South Africa are facing significant challenges in this political and economic climate. For many graduates, the reality after university is disheartening-you pursue a qualification with the hope of building a career, only to discover that the job market doesn't align with your field of study. The disconnect between education and employment opportunities leaves many young people feeling lost, frustrated, and uncertain about their future. Despite this, many are finding alternative paths through entrepreneurship, innovation, and community involvement.

MC: You are winning a lot of fellowships. How do you achieve that and what has been your experience?
Londiwe Ngobeni: Achieving these fellowships has been a meaningful yet challenging journey. It all began when I came across the concept of fellowships online and applied for the be Visioneers: The Mercedes-Benz Fellowship. That opportunity marked the first time I introduced my project to the world. Until then, I never saw myself as a "sustainability innovator"-but that fellowship helped me embrace the title and begin developing my project with more structure and vision. The experience has been transformative, providing tools to move from an idea to a working prototype, and helping me understand what it means to lead, empower, and communicate effectively.

MC: Do you happen to do activities that also include gender rights and other human freedoms?
Londiwe Ngobeni: Yes, while my work may not always fall under traditional human rights activism, it strongly promotes gender rights and broader human freedoms. Through my sustainability project, I focus on empowering women and young people-especially in rural communities-by creating access to clean water, sustainable farming opportunities, and platforms where their voices can be heard.

MC: How are young people treated in South Africa, especially regarding employment?
Londiwe Ngobeni: In South Africa, young people face significant challenges when it comes to employment. Despite being educated and motivated, many struggle with high unemployment rates, limited opportunities, and a system that often overlooks their potential. However, a growing number are turning to innovation, entrepreneurship, and community development to create their own paths.

MC: Are you happy with your career path, and are you amplifying other young people to follow suit?
Londiwe Ngobeni: Yes, I am truly happy with the career path I've chosen. What began as a test of purpose has become a meaningful journey of impact. My goal is not only to grow personally but to empower other young people to realize their own potential. I want to create a platform that provides opportunities-whether it's through jobs, freedom of expression, or the space to bring their visions to life. This path is not just about me; it's about building a foundation for the next generation.

MC: Where do you see yourself in the next five years, and are you by any means thinking of writing a book on climate, youth, and technology?
Londiwe Ngobeni: In the next five years, I see myself expanding my project on a much larger scale-ideally owning at least 14 acres of land dedicated to sustainable development, where I can implement solutions for clean water access, food security, and youth empowerment. As for writing a book-now that you mention it, I've never truly considered it before, but I do enjoy expressing myself through writing. This journey has been filled with powerful lessons and growth that could inspire others. So yes, I may one day write a book that captures the intersection of climate action, youth leadership, and innovation.

Londiwe Ngobeni is a beVisioneers: The Mercedes-Benz Fellow and sustainability advocate from South Africa. She empowers rural women through sustainable farming, promoting the growth and sale of healthy fruits and vegetables. Her work supports food security, eco-friendly practices, and economic independence for women in underserved communities. She believes in empowering others to build their own future and hopes to one day share her journey through a book.