Happy Mbewe
POP Representative from Malawi
Happy Mbewe was born in Malawi. He grew up as the second son in a family of three, and his family had a background in professional gardening. This early exposure to the world of gardening provided Happy with a deep connection to the physical environment from an early age. Happy began his formal education at the age of four when he enrolled in primary school. Eight years later, he continued his educational journey at Mulunguzi Secondary School, marking the next phase of his academic life. His pursuit of knowledge led him through several educational institutions. In 2012, he enrolled in Indira Gandhi International Open University, where he successfully graduated with a Diploma in Early Childhood Care and Education. Building on this foundation, in 2014, he furthered his education by attending Blantyre Teachers’ Training College, where he obtained a primary school teachers’ certificate.
In 2016, Happy continued his quest for knowledge by enrolling in Mubarack Complex College, where he earned a Level 4 Diploma in Rural Community Development (A.B.M.A.). The following year, in 2017, he expanded his academic horizons once more by enrolling in Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources,, where he graduated with a Diploma in Agriculture. After completing his formal education in 2019, Happy embarked on a new path as a climate activist. Witnessing numerous climate injustices within his community, he founded the youth-led climate change activist organization ‘Tiwale,’ which means ‘light up’ in the local language. Under Happy’s leadership, ‘Tiwale’ has successfully executed numerous climate projects in collaboration with small-scale farmers and youth. These initiatives include tree planting, public waste management campaigns, agroecology, food production, and nutrition, among others. Happy has also worked diligently to establish partnerships with both local and international organizations, such as Access Agriculture, SAFCEI, Act-ubumbano, African Climate Alliance, and GIZ MALAWI. Their efforts were recognized in 2022 when ‘Tiwale’ was honored as the best performers in the Nature conservation category by The POP Movement during the commemoration of R.K Pachauri’s 82nd Birth Anniversary on August 20, 2022.
Currently, Happy Mbewe is actively involved in various projects aimed at environmental sustainability and community resilience. One of his ongoing initiatives is the “Resilient Recovery Solutions for Vulnerable Households Affected by Cyclone Freddy.” This project includes a farmer-to-farmer small livestock pass-on program designed to contribute to disaster response efforts. In addition, Happy is part of a team working on a bee farming project in collaboration with local farmers. This climate-smart enterprise is set to launch in February 2024 and is intended to directly benefit 87 households while promoting environmental conservation.
Happy Mbewe’s journey, from a young student to a prominent climate activist and educator, demonstrates his unwavering commitment to addressing climate change and improving the well-being of his community. His remarkable achievements and ongoing projects exemplify his dedication to creating a more sustainable and resilient future for all.