Who is Denise Ayebare? The Climate Justice Advocate Aiming for NYC Secretary Seat

Denise Ayebare is one of the most talked about youth activists in Uganda. She is now in the race for the position of Secretary in the National Youth Council (NYC). Her journey has drawn attention because she is not only a law student but also a well-known climate justice advocate.

She has made her name through strong advocacy, community projects, and participation in major international climate conferences. Many young Ugandans see her as a rising leader who combines knowledge, passion, and courage.

Early Life and Background

Denise Ayebare was born in Rwanda. Her family fled to Uganda during the civil war and settled in Western Uganda. Growing up in a cattle-keeping community, she saw how climate and weather directly affected families. Droughts and unpredictable seasons shaped her early understanding of why environmental justice matters.

This background gave her a sense of responsibility. She often says that her childhood experiences inspired her to fight for climate justice and fair policies that protect both people and nature.

Education Journey

Denise is currently a law student at Makerere University. Her main focus is environmental law. She also studied international relations and corruption, which gave her a wider view of governance and global issues.

Her education has helped her connect activism with legal knowledge. She believes this mix makes her better prepared to influence policy.

Career and Leadership Roles

Denise is the founder of BetterLife International Organization, a youth-led group that works on community development and climate projects. Through this platform, she has pushed for clean energy, water access, and youth empowerment.

She also served as the Prime Minister of the 5th National Youth Parliament in Uganda. In that role, she gained experience in leadership and policy discussions.

Her voice has gone beyond Uganda. She has represented young people at climate meetings like COP27, COP28, and Stockholm+50. At these events, she pushed for urgent climate action and more involvement of African youth in negotiations.

Awards and Recognition

Denise has received several awards that highlight her work.

• Climate Activist of the Year 2024, awarded by GIZ and European partners.

• Diana Award 2024, a global recognition given to young leaders creating change.

• Named among the Top 40 Under 40 in Uganda.

• Listed among the Top 30 Law Students in Eastern Africa.

These awards have strengthened her profile as a youth leader with both national and international respect.

Projects and Community Impact

One of her most successful projects is the installation of biogas plants in Western Uganda. This project reduced charcoal use and helped in the fight against deforestation.

She also worked on providing clean water wells during the COVID-19 period. This project supported rural communities who had limited access to safe water.

Through BetterLife International, she has continued to promote renewable energy, environmental awareness, and youth-led development.

Why She Wants the NYC Secretary Seat

Denise believes that the NYC Secretary position will give her a stronger platform. She wants to bring climate justice into the center of youth policy.

She says her goal is to make sure young voices are heard in decision-making. With her legal background, she hopes to connect activism with structured policy change.

Her campaign focuses on inclusion, climate resilience, and youth empowerment.

Challenges Ahead

The election for NYC Secretary is competitive. Many youth leaders are also running for top positions.

Denise faces the challenge of turning activism into political influence. While her projects and awards show success, the real test will be how she can bring resources, partnerships, and lasting policy changes.

Still, many young Ugandans believe her track record makes her a strong candidate.

Denise Ayebare’s story is one of resilience, vision, and action. From her childhood in Western Uganda to global climate conferences, she has shown that youth can drive change.

As she eyes the NYC Secretary position, her journey reflects a new generation of leaders who link community action with national policy. Whether she wins or not, her impact on climate justice and youth leadership is already clear.