Photos courtesy of Nancy Barisoa
Nancy Barisoa is an environmental expert from Madagascar who is participating in the UN Convention to Combat Desertification’s CRIC23 meetings as a GEF-sponsored youth delegate. In a GEF Voices interview, she shared life lessons from her work elevating youth priorities for the planet through training, storytelling, listening, and learning.
What do you do for a living? What are you currently focused on?
I work as the Community Digital Support Specialist at the Global Landscapes Forum, where I help communities share their stories and work more effectively online. Beyond my job, I spend much of my time advocating for youth priorities and their full participation in policy processes in my capacity as the Regional Focal Point for Africa at the UNCCD Youth Caucus and a member of the Regional Youth Parliament of the Indian Ocean Commission. I also serve on the Youth Advisory Council of AfricanYouth4Forests and mentor young awardees in the UNDP Youth4Climate program. My purpose is to create spaces where young people can shape the future of our planet and feel truly seen, heard, and valued!
How did you get into this line of work?
I obtained a master’s degree in software engineering from the National School of Computer Science in Madagascar. But over time, I changed my focus to include more emphasis on the environment. I realized that no matter what career path we choose, we cannot stay silent when our communities are facing real challenges. I saw the impacts of environmental degradation and social inequalities around me, and I felt a responsibility to act. I began volunteering, speaking up, and offering my time wherever it could help. Those small steps eventually opened paths to regional and global spaces. Today, I feel grateful that my work brings together my technical background and my deep wish to support people, justice, and the Earth.
Is there a GEF-funded initiative that is close to your heart?
The EcoShe project, a Climate Justice Award from the Climate and Development Knowledge Network and the Global Landscapes Forum, is very close to my heart. What mattered most to me was seeing its real impact across my country and witnessing how many women felt inspired and encouraged through our work. Through training in advocacy and climate literacy, we used storytelling as a powerful way to bring forward the voices of women, young people, and local communities. Before I ever stepped into policy spaces, I was on the ground, listening, learning, and working alongside communities. EcoShe reminded me that meaningful change begins locally and that solutions endure when they are guided by community voices.
Has anyone you have met through your work made a lasting impact on you?
Juliet Grace, the Global Focal Point to the UNCCD Youth Caucus, has always been a powerful source of inspiration since we began working together in 2024. She gives herself fully to the work, often using her own resources because she believes deeply in the change it can create for young people. Her generosity and dedication have taught me that true leadership often happens quietly, behind the scenes, where real work and real care take place.
What life lessons has your job taught you?
I have learned that how we treat people matters as much as any skill. Listening with care, communicating clearly, and putting people at the center are essential. These qualities open doors that technical knowledge alone cannot!
The state of the global environment is concerning. What gives you hope?
I believe that giving up is not an option. Hopelessness, inaction, or simply complaining is a luxury we cannot afford while our climate faces such serious challenges. What gives me hope is the strength of our ancestors. In fact, they endured immense obstacles, including colonial oppression, yet they kept moving forward so future generations could live with dignity and possibility. Their courage reminds me that change is always within reach when people stand together. I want my future children to grow up in a healthy and safe world, and that dream fuels my determination every day. I see so many young people rising, learning, and leading with purpose, and their energy convinces me that a brighter future is truly possible.
What advice would you give a young person today who is interested in a career like yours?
Follow what truly excites you. When you love what you do, your work becomes a source of energy rather than a burden. Your passion will guide you, open unexpected doors, and help you stay steady even when the path feels uncertain. And remember that we go further when we work together. But most importantly, supporting one another makes the journey richer and the impact stronger.
