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 was 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 empowered local communities to act towards a sustainable future. The project also used 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. 

Ivanick distributed 360 informational brochures to further engage the local community and complement the podcast. The materials served as valuable resources for listeners, enhancing their learning experience and providing practical information and tools for climate action. The project facilitated two community workshops attended by 80 participants and a podcast series that produced six episodes and reached 1,000 listeners, all of which contributed to fostering long-term positive change within the community.

Listen to the Island Echoes podcast: ISLAND ECHOES

"The Island Echoes project has been a game-changer for our community. It not only raised awareness about the critical environmental challenges we face but also empowered individuals with the knowledge and tools to take meaningful action. The collaborative workshops and educational resources were particularly impactful in fostering a sense of collective responsibility for preserving our biodiversity." - Project Participant

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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