Osbone Maquival, a young graduate in mathematical sciences and an intern in the 7th edition of the Leadership Program for Conservation of Mozambique (PLCM), is an inspiring example of how Mozambican youth are transforming challenges into concrete solutions for climate action. Funded by the Embassy of Sweden and the World Bank and implemented by the Foundation for the Conservation of Biodiversity (BIOFUND), PLCM offers recent graduates an immersive experience in the conservation sector, promoting technical skills, community leadership, and environmental innovation.

Assigned to Chimanimani National Park (PNC), Osbone was placed in the monitoring and evaluation department. Despite limitations in the sector, instead of stepping back, he went beyond his duties: he brought conservation to Sussundenga Secondary School, mobilizing students for recycling, biodiversity awareness, and community action. From the conservation office to the community, change began to take shape.

His dedication culminated in his participation in the Climate Action Innovation Hub during the African Climate Summit 2 (ACS2) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. There, Osbone presented an innovative solution based on artificial intelligence and Sentinel-1 satellite imagery, using Deep Learning to map floods and develop early warning systems. This technology aims to mitigate the impacts of cyclones in Mozambique, protecting vulnerable communities and supporting integrated water resource management policies.

This journey reflects the principles of PLCM: youth leadership, resilience, environmental citizenship education, and commitment to climate adaptation. His story is a powerful testimony that even in challenging contexts, it is possible to innovate, inspire, and contribute to regional goals for climate change mitigation and adaptation. PLCM continues to be an essential platform for revealing and strengthening talents like Osbone, who are building bridges between science, community, and climate action.

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