This inspiring conversation with Mosimileoluwa Alabi-Orgu, the dynamic young founder of Recyclub, highlights her journey into climate education and recycling advocacy. Discover how this passionate advocate is transforming the way Nigerian children understand and engage with environmental issues, one classroom at a time. From creating a relatable, African-focused curriculum to launching the innovative Recycle for Education Drive, Mosimileoluwa is not just teaching the next generation about climate change—she’s empowering them to be the change-makers of tomorrow.
Wastebanc
Wastebanc: How did you get into environmental issues and recycling?
Mosimileoluwa Alabi-Orgu: I started Recyclub after noticing school kids knew little about climate change. Seeing its effects like pollution and extreme weather conditions pushed me to take action.
Wastebanc: Absolutely, climate change is affecting us all.
Mosimileoluwa Alabi-Orgu: *Nods* A 2020 report showed that 6 out of 10 Nigerians hadn’t heard of climate change. Even those who didn’t know how to act. The thing is, sometimes it can be like a chore trying to convince adults about changing their lifestyle and trying to switch from what they’re used to, you know, an average Nigerian is concerned about what he eats, where to live, how to make money. I realised educating kids early was key since they’re more open to learning and making changes.
Wastebanc: That’s a smart approach. Did you have climate education as a child?
Mosimileoluwa Alabi-Orgu: Yes, my mom taught me not to litter from a young age. Kids absorb what they learn, so teaching them about climate change and recycling early on sticks with them.
Wastebanc: How did you kickstart your advocacy?
Mosimileoluwa Alabi-Orgu: I saw the lack of African-focused educational materials, so I developed a curriculum tailored for African kids. Most of the resources out there were not tailored to the African child and it’s important that if I’m to teach a child in Bariga about climate change, I don’t show them pictures from European countries. It won’t resonate with them. At best, it can stir up eco-anxiety. Teaching them with relatable examples makes a bigger impact.
Wastebanc: How long have you been at this?
Mosimileoluwa Alabi-Orgu: Since September 2021, we’ve reached over 400 kids in Lagos and Ogun state. We focus on low-income schools, teaching kids to understand and act on climate change.
Wastebanc: Tell us about the Recycle for Education Drive.
It’s important that if I’m to teach a child in Bariga about climate change, I don’t show them pictures from European countries. It won’t resonate with them.
Mosimileoluwa Alabi-Orgu
Mosimileoluwa Alabi-Orgu: Mosimileoluwa Alabi-Orgu: Because of my involvement with children, I realized that there were a lot of smart children in some of the schools that we visited that did not have access to the required materials, some weren’t in school or some of them did not even have things they need because their parents could not afford it. And then these areas also had a huge plastic waste problem. We decided to launch a subproject under Recyclub called the Recycle for Education Drive. It is a recycling program that utilizes the huge plastic waste in these areas to pay for the fees of children. We had the beta phase in March and then we officially launched in October 2023.
Wastebanc: How do you handle scepticism or lack of interest from kids and parents?
Mosimileoluwa Alabi-Orgu: We mainly work through schools, not directly with parents. We also engage community members, letting them know that our initiative would keep the environment clean, but we’re also paying fees for some children who will need it. You don’t have to do anything. Just throw the bottles in this bin and that’s all. That’s how we got them to come on board and contribute to the project. Once school owners are on board, parents are usually excited about the extra education their kids get for free.
Wastebanc: Any schools turned you down?
Mosimileoluwa Alabi-Orgu: Some government schools have, due to politics and red tape. We focus on private schools where we’ve had good reception.
Wastebanc: What are the key lessons you teach kids about recycling and climate change?
Mosimileoluwa Alabi-Orgu: We cover what climate change is, its causes, and solutions. We use simple, relatable examples to explain concepts like greenhouse gases.
Wastebanc: What keeps you motivated despite challenges?
Mosimileoluwa Alabi-Orgu: I love teaching kids and care deeply about the environment. Even when facing volunteer or financial challenges, I focus on the bigger picture and the impact we’re making.
Wastebanc: Has this journey changed you?
Mosimileoluwa Alabi-Orgu: It’s given me a better understanding of how the NGO space works and the challenges of securing funding. But my passion for the cause remains unchanged.
Wastebanc: How can Wastebanc support young environmental champions like you?
Mosimileoluwa Alabi-Orgu: We need more drop-off points for recycling. Expanding bin locations would make it easier for people to contribute.
Wastebanc: What are your future goals for climate education and recycling?
Mosimileoluwa Alabi-Orgu: We plan to train teachers to ensure continuity, host climate conferences for kids, and expand the Recycle for Education Drive across Lagos, Ibadan, and Ogun State.
Wastebanc: Any advice for young people starting in this field?
Mosimileoluwa Alabi-Orgu: Make sure you’re in it for the right reasons. If someone’s already doing what you want to do, collaborate with them. If not, start something impactful on your own.
