Activist Spotlight: Dayanca Pather
An interview with Dayanca Pather — a South African activist who believes that we cannot separate climate justice from social justice.
Dayanca Pather is one of our current 2023/2024 ACA Ambassadors, based in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. She strongly believes that we cannot achieve climate justice without social justice. As such, she is on a mission to amplify the voices of those most affected by the climate crisis. We asked Dayanca a few questions to learn more about her journey as an ACA Ambassador and her learnings from the climate justice space.
How did your activist journey begin?
My climate activism journey began with a commitment to human rights. Engaging in the Youth Policy Committee at Youth@SAIIA, I contributed to a project compiling a Youth Statement for COP27. Through this, I delved into the realm of climate justice and recognised the urgency of climate action. This experience fueled my determination to advocate for climate justice, leading me to connect with organisations like African Climate Alliance.
What is the biggest lesson you learnt from being a part of the Africa’s Youth Voices conference series?
Being part of Africa's Youth Voices Conference Series taught me the power that comes from collaboration among young activists. Through this experience, I witnessed how our collective efforts could shape a narrative that truly reflects Africa's realities in the climate justice conversation.
As the saying goes, "Alone, we may make ripples, but together, we create waves that can reshape the world." The shared commitment and passion within a group magnify the impact of our actions, making the journey toward meaningful change not only stronger but also more accessible for everyone involved.
There are many ways to be a climate justice activist. What does being a climate justice activist mean to you? And what is your favourite way to take action?
My favourite way to take action is advocacy. Being a climate justice activist, to me, means actively engaging in efforts that address environmental inequities and amplify the voices of those most affected. Advocacy allows me to use my voice to influence policies, raise awareness, and promote sustainable practices.
Especially in today's social media-driven world, sharing all sorts of information on these platforms is crucial for staying informed and connected. It's a powerful tool for driving systemic change and ensuring a more just and sustainable future for all.
When do you feel most connected to nature?
I feel most connected to nature when I'm at the beach, taking walks, feeling grateful for fresh air and water. Additionally, the experience of being in game reserves, observing wild animals in their natural habitats, holds a special significance as it highlights the vital role these reserves play in protecting biodiversity and supporting local communities.
What keeps you hopeful?
What keeps me hopeful is the growing awareness surrounding climate change. However, it's crucial to acknowledge that our pursuit of climate justice doesn't end here; there's a continued journey ahead to drive meaningful change and create a sustainable future.
