Changeworker of the Week #16: Thato Gabaitse, Climate Justice Strategist & Gender Equality Changemaker

Thato Gabaitse, Climate Justice Strategist & Gender Equality Changemaker is fighting for a future where African women aren’t just impacted by climate change: they are recognized, uplifted, and resourced as leaders, innovators and solution-builders.

Her work moves beyond token inclusion to something deeper: restoring power to the communities who have always held the knowledge and making sure they’re the ones shaping the future.

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: Thato Gabaitse whom we had the pleasure of interviewing for this special spotlight.

What’s your piece for change?

My piece for change is to make climate justice, one that centers African women as innovators, decision-makers, and architects of their collective future. I want to ensure that those who carry the weight of climate impacts also hold the power to define the solutions.

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

I was raised in communities where resilience was not a choice but a rhythm of life. Watching women rebuild after extended droughts, plant hope in dry soil, and lead with quiet strength inspired me to fight for systems that recognize and resource that leadership. I stay committed because their courage deserves policy, not pity and justice, not charity.

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

That the next generation of African girls won’t need to fight for a seat at the table because they will be building the table themselves. I envision a future where climate action is feminist, equitable, and rooted in community wisdom.

What support or connection are you currently looking for?

I’m seeking partnerships that can accelerate funding for women-led renewable energy enterprises and community resilience projects. Collaboration with aligned organizations, donors, and media storytellers who can amplify these models beyond pilot scale into policy influence.

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

That the “just transition” isn’t abstract, it’s a social contract. Every solar farm, every climate fund, every policy must ask: who benefits, who bears the cost, and who gets to decide? Until that question guides our action, we risk reproducing the same inequalities we claim to solve.

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

Reflective journaling, leadership coaching, collective learning spaces & a strong sisterhood have been powerful anchors.

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

Every single time that I listen to stories of communities & the impacts of climate change on their lives – I am moved & compelled to reshape spaces that speak truth & where power listens to act in care !

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

We need to shift from extraction to reciprocity, in how we use resources, tell stories, and lead change. Hope lives in the thousands of young women who are already practicing this shift quietly i.e. restoring land, mentoring peers, and redefining leadership from the ground up.

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

I return to stillness, sun-gazing, journaling and most importantly, spending time with my family.

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

Connect with me via Linktree @thato06

The Parayma community is rooted in authentic, supportive relationships. 

If Thato’s story resonates with you: if you’re restoring land, rebuilding systems, or reclaiming power, reach out and connect.

🌿 Thank you, Thato, for sharing your #PieceForChange and reminding us that climate justice is not a trend: it’s a community-rooted and reciprocal commitment.

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.