Changeworker of the Week #17: Chebet Ropkoy, Climate & Digital Education Advocate

Chebet Ropkoy, founder of Sustainable Education Hub, is on a mission to bridge the education gap for underserved youth - especially in rural and marginalized communities - by combining climate awareness, digital literacy and bold empowerment.

Her vision is as clear as it is powerful: ignite a generation that is not only aware of the climate crisis but also equipped with the tools to address it and to lead change on their own terms.

Through the #MyPieceForChange campaign, we invite people to share their unique contributions to collective transformation. This series exists to honor their stories, amplify their voices, and connect them with a wider community of like-minded peers. Today, we’re honored to introduce our Changeworker of the Week: Chebet Ropkoy whom we had the pleasure of interviewing for this special spotlight.

What’s your piece for change?

I rise to ignite a generation, climate-conscious, digitally skilled, and boldly literate- so together, we can build a just and sustainable future where no voice is left behind. 

What inspired you to begin this work or stay committed to it?

My journey began when I realized how many children in our communities are left behind, not because they lack dreams, but because they lack access. I saw bright young minds full of potential but with limited opportunities to learn, use technology, or understand their role in protecting the planet. That inspired me to start Sustainable Education Hub to bridge those gaps through education, digital literacy, and climate awareness. What keeps me going is the spark in a child’s eyes when they discover something new and realize they, too, can shape a better and more sustainable future.

What’s one hope or vision you hold for the future?

My hope is to see a generation of young people who are climate-conscious, digitally skilled, and empowered to lead change in their communities, a generation that uses knowledge and innovation to build a just, inclusive, and sustainable future for all.

What support or connection are you currently looking for?

I’m looking for partnerships and mentorship opportunities to strengthen Sustainable Education Hub’s impact—particularly in expanding digital literacy and climate education programs to more rural and marginalized schools. Support in resource mobilization, curriculum development, and networking with like-minded changemakers would help us scale our reach and sustainability.\

What’s one thing about your field or topic you wish more people knew, considered, or acted on?

I wish more people understood that education is the foundation of sustainability.

What practices, tools, or resources have supported you most on your changework journey?

Community engagement frameworks and participatory learning models have been central to my work, helping ensure that our programs at Sustainable Education Hub are inclusive and locally grounded. Tools like storytelling and design thinking have also supported our approach to co-creating solutions.

Can you share a moment or experience that deeply shaped the way you approach change today?

One moment that deeply shaped my approach to change was meeting children in informal settlements who, despite their daily struggles, spoke so boldly about their dreams. Their hope, even in hardship, reminded me that potential is everywhere, but opportunity is not. It inspired me to focus on creating access through education, digital skills, and climate awareness so that every child, no matter where they come from, has the chance to turn their dreams into reality.

What collective shift do you believe is needed for meaningful change to happen, and what gives you hope that it’s possible?

Meaningful change requires a collective shift from individual effort to community-driven action where everyone takes responsibility for creating sustainable solutions. We must invest in young people and local voices, ensuring they lead the change in their own communities. What gives me hope is seeing this unity already forming people coming together to learn, act, and reimagine a future that works for all.

How do you take care of your own energy or wellbeing while doing this work?

I take care of my energy by slowing down to reconnect—with nature, and the communities that inspire my work. I’ve learned to pause, reflect, and celebrate small wins. Sharing spaces with other changemakers also reminds me that I’m not alone in this journey, and that collective care is just as important as the change we seek.

Where can people learn more about your work or connect with you?

Connect with me on Instagram @sustainableeducationhub & @chebet.ropkoy 

The Parayma community is rooted in authentic, supportive relationships. 

If Chebet’s story resonates with you: if you believe education, access, and climate awareness belong to all: reach out, collaborate, and support her work.

🌿 Thank you, Chebet for sharing your #PieceForChange and reminding us that sustainability starts with access and with those courageous enough to create it.

Stay tuned for next week’s Changeworker feature, and if you’d like to be highlighted, join the campaign and tick the box to express your interest.