UPG Viewer

28 Years Old

Zimbabwe

Male

Yes! That is really who you are!

Hello, I’m Blessing Z Mutepfa, a multifaceted individual with a passion for the great outdoors. Professionally, I’m a Surveying and Geomatics expert, but music is where my heart finds its rhythm. As a singer-songwriter, I craft melodies that reflect my soul. When I’m not mapping the world or making music, you can find me exploring the beauty of nature. Welcome to my journey!

– Strong passion for sustainability and environmental stewardship – Proficiency in Surveying and Geomatics – Music composition and songwriting skills – Excellent communication and collaboration skills – Ability to think creatively and develop innovative solutions – Strong sense of responsibility and accountability – Profound appreciation for the natural world and its preservation – Ability to work effectively in outdoor environments – Strong leadership potential

During my Surveying and Geomatics studies, our team was tasked with mapping a densely forested area using limited resources. The challenge was to collect accurate data without disrupting the ecosystem. I suggested using a combination of drone technology and traditional surveying methods to gather data efficiently. This innovative approach allowed us to complete the project within the given timeframe and budget while minimizing our environmental footprint. Our solution was well-received by the client and showcased the value of creative problem-solving in Surveying and Geomatics.

As a Surveyor, I volunteered with a local environmental organization that focused on conservation and sustainability efforts. My role involved participating in tree-planting initiatives, conducting environmental surveys, and assisting with community outreach programs.

Through this experience, I gained valuable insights into the importance of community engagement and collaboration in driving environmental change. I learned about the interconnectedness of human and environmental well-being, and the need for sustainable practices in our daily lives.

Moreover, volunteering allowed me to develop essential skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. It also deepened my passion for environmental stewardship and motivated me to continue making a positive impact in my community.

This experience has been instrumental in shaping my perspective on sustainability and has inspired me to pursue opportunities like the UPG Sustainability Leadership program.

Undergraduate: I have completed an undergraduate degree

If I were to lead a sustainability-related project, I would initiate a community-led reforestation and conservation effort in a nearby degraded forest area. The project, which I’d call “Green Revival,” would aim to restore the forest ecosystem, promote biodiversity, and support local communities.

The project would involve several key components:

1. Community engagement and education: Collaborate with local schools, community groups, and indigenous organizations to raise awareness about the importance of forest conservation and involve them in the project’s planning and implementation.
2. Reforestation and habitat restoration: Organize community-led tree-planting events, using native species, and implement sustainable land-use practices to restore degraded habitats.
3. Sustainable livelihoods: Support local communities in developing sustainable livelihoods, such as eco-tourism, agroforestry, and non-timber forest products, to reduce their dependence on forest resources.
4. Monitoring and evaluation: Establish a monitoring system to track the project’s progress, assess its impact, and make adjustments as needed.

I’m passionate about this project because it addresses several pressing sustainability issues, including deforestation, biodiversity loss, and community development. By empowering local communities and promoting sustainable practices, we can create a positive impact on the environment and improve the well-being of local residents.

Anticipating challenges is crucial to the success of the Green Revival project. Here are some potential challenges I expect to face and how I would overcome them:

# Challenges
1. *Community Engagement and Participation*: Ensuring active participation and engagement from local communities, especially in the planning and decision-making processes.
2. *Limited Resources*: Securing sufficient funding, materials, and human resources to support the project’s goals and objectives.
3. *Land-Use Conflicts*: Resolving potential conflicts with local stakeholders, such as farmers, loggers, or other interest groups, who may have competing claims on the land.
4. *Climate and Weather Conditions*: Adapting to unpredictable weather patterns, such as droughts or floods, which could impact tree planting and habitat restoration efforts.
5. *Monitoring and Evaluation*: Developing effective monitoring and evaluation systems to track progress, assess impact, and make data-driven decisions.

# Overcoming Challenges
1. *Community Engagement and Participation*: Establish a community-led steering committee to ensure local ownership and decision-making. Conduct regular community meetings, workshops, and training sessions to build capacity and trust.
2. *Limited Resources*: Develop a comprehensive funding strategy, including grants, sponsorships, and crowdfunding. Establish partnerships with local organizations, businesses, and government agencies to access resources and expertise.
3. *Land-Use Conflicts*: Engage in open and transparent dialogue with local stakeholders to understand their concerns and interests. Develop mutually beneficial solutions that balance competing demands on the land.
4. *Climate and Weather Conditions*: Develop a flexible project plan that can adapt to changing weather conditions. Implement climate-resilient tree species and habitat restoration techniques to minimize the impact of extreme weather events.
5. *Monitoring and Evaluation*: Establish a robust monitoring and evaluation framework that incorporates community-based monitoring, remote sensing, and data analysis. Use data insights to inform project decisions, adjust strategies, and demonstrate impact.

About 50 people

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