From Global UGRAD Pakistan Participant to Environmental Advocate: A Journey of Commitment, Collaboration, and Climate Action

My journey from being a participant in the Global UGRAD-Pakistan program to my current role leading the "Youth GreenFest 2023" has been nothing short of transformative. It's a story fueled by a personal commitment to making a difference in the world and driven by the lessons and values I gained during my Global UGRAD experience.

One of the fundamental principles that have guided my path is a deep commitment to community service. Global UGRAD instilled in me a sense of responsibility towards my community and the world at large. This commitment has become the bedrock of my environmental advocacy efforts, inspiring me to take tangible actions in the fight against climate change. It's a reminder that every individual has the power to make a positive impact on the world.

Cross-cultural understanding and cooperation are other vital lessons I learned during my time in the Global UGRAD program. It taught me the immense value of diversity and the necessity of working collaboratively across borders to tackle global challenges. These principles have been instrumental in my work, allowing me to engage with people from diverse backgrounds and perspectives in our shared mission to combat climate change. Inclusivity and collaboration, I've found, are the keys to finding effective solutions to environmental issues.

My experiences in Fayette, Iowa, and the rural setting of Upper Iowa University deeply connected me with individuals who shared a profound appreciation for nature. Witnessing the dedication of individuals like former Judge Jim Beeghly to native plant farming inspired me greatly. It motivated me to explore the intricate ecosystems of our region and reinforced the urgency of addressing climate concerns. This personal connection to the environment has become a driving force behind my advocacy work.

Global UGRAD also broadened my horizons and instilled in me a sense of global responsibility. It deepened my understanding of climate change and global warming as urgent global issues that require immediate attention. This broader perspective has further fueled my dedication to taking action to address these pressing challenges.

The personal experience of witnessing my village, Akora Khattak, being affected by two devastating floods in a decade has added a deeply personal dimension to my climate advocacy efforts. It has reinforced my commitment to resilience-building measures and the importance of climate adaptation strategies for vulnerable communities.

Finally, the opportunities provided by the Community Development Initiative (CDI) awards from Global UGRAD Pakistan and IREX have played a pivotal role in shaping my leadership skills and project management capabilities. These experiences have given me the confidence to lead larger projects and take calculated risks in pursuing my goals in climate advocacy and community service.

From being a Global UGRAD participant to my current role as the founder of KP Green Alliance, my journey is a testament to the transformative power of education, cross-cultural exchange, and a deep commitment to making the world a better place. It's a journey that continues to motivate and guide me in my dedication to addressing critical community issues and combatting the challenges posed by climate change. Together, we can create a more sustainable and inclusive future for our planet.