Ivanick Lopandza is the national coordinator of the University of California Malaria Initiative project in São Tomé. He has a degree in public administration; a master's degree in management and applied economics and is currently writing a PhD thesis in territory risk and public policy. In addition to his academic work, Ivanick has recently been developing various cultural activities in different communities and developing several interviews (podcasts) with people who can positively influence the local community. 

IVLP Impact Award Project:  Island Echoes: Exploring Climate Change in São Tomé and Príncipe 

Island Echoes is a groundbreaking podcast project dedicated to raising awareness about climate change and environmental issues in São Tomé and Príncipe. Through engaging interviews, insightful discussions, and community outreach, Island Echoes will empower local communities to act towards a sustainable future. The project will also use educational materials, and community engagement initiatives to raise awareness and spur action in local communities to mitigate the effects of climate change and protect the natural environment. 

Thus far, Ivanick has distributed 360 informational brochures to further engage the local community and complement the podcast. The materials serve as valuable resources for listeners, enhancing their learning experience and providing practical information and tools for climate action. He is also planning an event to share insights about his experience with IVLP and the positive impact of the program on his professional journey. The event will also provide an opportunity to discuss climate action, ecological awareness, and leadership in African contexts.

Listen to the first two podcast episodes:

• Episode 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jfAOIs8z0MA
• Episode 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2aJXDisIj68&ab_channel=sombla

 

"Our hope is to inspire and empower the people of São Tomé and Príncipe to become champions of environmental stewardship and resilience in the face of climate change. Through the power of storytelling and community engagement, we aim to foster a collective commitment to protecting our precious planet for generations to come.” - Ivanick Lopandza 

IVLP Exchange Experience 

Ivanick participated in the IVLP Project The Climate Crisis: Working Together for Future Generations organized by the U.S. Department of State and Meridian International Center, in partnership with Global Ties Miami, Utah Global Diplomacy and WorldOregon.  

Ivanick’s exchange experience led to the development of his IVLP Impact Award project: “My IVLP experience, particularly the visit to the Bureau of Planning and Sustainability in Portland and meeting with Andria Jacob, the Climate Policy and Program Manager, left a profound impact on me.” 

Witnessing Portland's innovative approach to sustainability and hearing firsthand about their successful climate initiatives fueled my determination to bring similar strategies to São Tomé and Príncipe. It reinforced my belief in the importance of local action and community engagement in addressing climate change, shaping the direction of my IVLP Impact Award Project, Island Echoes.”  - Ivanick Lopandza 

U.S. Communities Visited   

Washington, DC; Miami, FL; Portland, OR; Salt Lake, UT

Country: Sao Tome and Principe 

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