At Sun and Shield School, we are proud to nurture leaders of character, vision, and impact, and few embody this more than our very own Alana Chelangat, a Grade 8 student making global waves in the fight against climate change.
In a world grappling with the climate crisis, Alana shines brightly as a beacon of hope, action, and youthful leadership. She is not just a student; she is an environmental activist, author, speaker, and youth ambassador whose voice is inspiring people of all ages to take bold steps in caring for our planet.
Alana began her environmental journey at the age of 11, guided by the values instilled here at Sun and Shield. Witnessing the effects of climate change in her community, she chose not to stay silent. Instead, she took action, and that spirit of service and responsibility has grown into a mission that now spans continents.
With each book she writes, speech she delivers, and tree she plants, Alana is showing the world that children, especially those grounded in strong values, can be powerful problem solvers. She is proudly raising the Sun and Shield flag on every platform she steps onto.
Her Remarkable Achievements
Little Miss Environment Kenya (2023–2025)
Alana was crowned for her outstanding leadership in environmental conservation and for being a positive influence among her peers across Kenya. Her win is not just her own; it’s a win for all of us at Sun and Shield.
Representing the Youth on Global Stages
Alana’s voice is being heard on major global platforms, where she champions the role of young people in shaping climate solutions:
COP28 in Dubai – She joined global youth leaders advocating for climate justice and meaningful youth engagement.
COP29 in Baku – Delivered a moving keynote urging world leaders to include children’s voices in decision-making.
African Children Summit (South Africa, 2024) – As a featured speaker, she emphasized how climate change affects African children and called for greater youth empowerment and environmental education.
Alana wrote “Alana’s Magical Adventure at Mazingira Park”, a captivating children’s book that blends storytelling with environmental education. It’s more than just a story; it’s a teaching tool that encourages young minds to protect the environment. We’re proud that this impactful work was created right here, by one of our own.
Her podcast, Climate Gumzo (Swahili for “conversation”), is another platform where Alana breaks down environmental issues in ways children and teens can understand. She interviews other young climate advocates, creating space for African youth voices to be heard across the globe.
Alana has founded her tree nursery, with over 20,000 saplings planted to date. Her reforestation efforts are educating communities, restoring ecosystems, and leaving a green legacy for generations to come.
“Children aren’t just victims of climate change. We’re problem solvers.”, Alana Chelangat
Alana reminds us that leadership has no age limit. At Sun and Shield, we believe in nurturing purpose-driven learners, and Alana is living proof of what a focused, compassionate, and courageous student can achieve. She’s not just representing Kenya, she’s representing Sun and Shield School with excellence.
Her story encourages every learner in our school to stand up, speak out, and take action for the future of our planet. Alana is more than a climate activist; she is a mentor and a role model, lighting the way for others to follow.
Let’s celebrate and support our trailblazer:
Follow Alana: 1. https://www.linkedin.com/in/alanachelangat, 2. https://x.com/alanachelangat, 3. https://www.instagram.com/alanachelangat.n
Listen to her podcast: Climate Gumzo with Alana on all major platforms
Read her book: Alana’s Magical Adventure at Mazingira Park, available in bookstores
Support her environmental efforts by planting trees and starting eco-friendly projects in your school or neighborhood
