UPG Viewer

25 Years Old

Nigeria

Male

Yes! That is really who you are!

I’m Abdulmalik Suleiman from Sokoto, Nigeria, an Agricultural Economics graduate driven by a commitment to sustainability and community impact. My journey includes hands in experience in agricultural management, like my work at Adiya Farms and establishing a small poultry farm, which deepened my focus on food security. As a volunteer and leader in initiatives like supporting underprivileged communities and leading a school agribusiness project, I’ve dedicated myself to making a difference. Becoming a UPG Sustainability Leader would empower me to scale my efforts in advancing sustainability in my community.

My relevant strengths are: – Leadership skills – Strong communication skills – Problem -solving abilities – Action- oriented mindset – Adaptability – Analytical skills – Organizational skills – Teamwork and collaboration – Commitment to sustainability – Technical skills

The strength that I chose is “Leadership skills”.

Here is the story: In 2022, I served as the Acting Head of Handicap Opportunities For Personal Engagement Studies (H.O.P.E.S) Academy, an organization dedicated to supporting students with disabilities. The challenge we faced was creating a more effective and engaging learning environment for these students, who had diverse learning needs.

I used my leadership skills to coordinate a team of volunteers, train them in special needs education techniques, and develop a set of tools to improve communication with the students. I also worked closely with parents and local communities to foster a collaborative approach to supporting these students’ education.

As a result of my leadership, we saw a significant improvement in both the students’ engagement and academic performance. This experience not only strengthened my leadership abilities but also reinforced the importance of working together to overcome challenges in a sustainable way.

Yes, I have been volunteering with the Al-Yateem Charity Initiative in Sokoto, Nigeria, for three years. My work involves organizing community outreach programs, fundraising, and supporting educational and health initiatives for underprivileged communities. This experience has strengthened my organizational skills, deepened my empathy, and reinforced my commitment to sustainable development. It has taught me the value of long-term solutions and the power of community action in driving positive change.

Undergraduate: I have completed an undergraduate degree

If I were to lead a sustainability -related project in my community, I would initiate a “Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security Program.” This project would aim to educate local farmers on sustainable farming techniques, such as organic crop rotation, water conservation, and soil management practices. The goal is to improve crop yields while reducing environmental impact, which would directly support food security and reduce dependency on chemical inputs that can harm both the soil and health.

This project is critical in my community, where traditional farming practices often degrade the land, leading to lower yields and increased poverty. By equipping farmers with sustainable practices, we can create a positive cycle of increased productivity, economic stability, and environmental preservation. Additionally, the project would foster collaboration among local farmers, agricultural experts, and community leaders, creating a strong support network that empowers people to take ownership of their sustainable practices.

Furthermore, I would leverage collaborations with my lecturers, who are also my mentors and experts in sustainable agriculture. Their guidance and expertise would enhance the project’s impact, helping to ensure that the techniques we promote are scientifically sound and tailored to the local environment. This approach not only aligns with my passion for sustainability but also harnesses the power of community action and expert mentorship for long -lasting, positive change.

Some challenges I expect in implementing the “Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security Program” include:

1. Resistance to Change: Many local farmers are accustomed to their traditional methods and may resist adopting new techniques. To address this, I would organize introductory workshops that demonstrate the long-term benefits of sustainable agriculture through real-life examples. Setting up demonstration plots can also help them see the practical advantages and outcomes firsthand.

2. Limited Resources and Funding: Launching a sustainability project requires resources for training, equipment, and materials. I plan to overcome this by seeking support from NGOs, government grants, and agricultural organizations focused on sustainability. Additionally, I could launch a small crowd funding campaign within the community to raise both funds and awareness for the project.

3. Technical Knowledge Gaps: Some farmers may lack the technical expertise needed for practices like crop rotation and organic pest management. To bridge this gap, I would collaborate with my lecturers and mentors, who are experts in sustainable agriculture. Their knowledge and guidance would provide valuable training for the farmers and enhance the credibility of the project.

4. Low Community Engagement: Increasing broader community involvement can be challenging. To address this, I would engage respected community leaders early in the process, ensuring that the project aligns with local needs and values. This approach would foster a sense of ownership and encourage more active participation.

By proactively addressing these challenges through education, collaboration with experts, resourcefulness, and community engagement, I am confident that we can build a successful program that benefits both the community and the environment.

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