GCRO’s Dr. Mamokete Modiba Joins Youth-Focused Green Economy Panel
Dr. Mamokete Modiba, Senior Researcher at the Gauteng City-Region Observatory (GCRO), recently participated in a thought-provoking panel discussion titled “From Talk to Tactics: Making Cities Work for Youth” at the Gauteng City Region (GCR) Green Economy Youth Pre-Conference. The event was hosted by the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) on the 5th of June 2025 at the Empire Conference & Events Venue and served as a precursor to the upcoming 2025 Joburg Green Economy Youth Conference and Green Jobs Expo, scheduled for September 2025.
This initiative is part of a broader effort to empower youth to lead local transitions toward a sustainable green economy, in alignment with Johannesburg’s Climate Change Action Plan 2040.
Reflecting on the panel, Dr. Modiba shared:
“It was a privilege to join an inspiring panel where we explored how policy can truly translate into tangible opportunities for youth in the green economy. The discussion offered a vital platform to reflect on what the data is telling us about youth participation—and where the gaps still lie.”
Key insights from Dr. Modiba included:
- Youth Engagement: Young people are highly aware of environmental issues and eager to contribute, but access to green economy opportunities remains uneven.
- Data-Driven Gaps: There is strong interest in sustainable sectors, yet a mismatch persists between youth aspirations and available career pathways.
- Strategic Alignment Needed: Education, policy frameworks, and entrepreneurship ecosystems must be better aligned to unlock the youth's potential in the green space.
The event brought together young innovators, policymakers, and changemakers who are all dedicated to creating a more sustainable and inclusive future. Alongside youth leaders, partners, and stakeholders, the pre-conference laid the groundwork for collaboration on ideas, forming partnerships, and developing strategies that will shape the Green Economy Youth Conference & Jobs Expo 2025.