Bongiwe Simka

Cape Town

Bongiwe is a sustainability professional with a passion for environmental justice and the intricate dynamics of human-environmental interactions. As a seasoned environmentalist, she envisions a world where biodiversity and thriving ecosystems are at the heart of development. If nature underpins human livelihoods, how can we sustainably and equitably manage the intricate relationship between people, planet and the economy? Through her role as a Professional Officer: Urban Nature & Nature-based Solutions at ICLEI Africa, Bongiwe has ventured to answer this very question, collaborating with communities, municipalities, researchers and practitioners across African cities and beyond, to bridge data gaps, test new methodologies (fail at some), develop contextually relevant tools and resources, and equip stakeholders with the skills necessary to drive inclusive and sustainable development transitions. Bongiwe believes everyone has the power to transform their communities, and even the smallest of steps can create catalytic change. She has a background in Biodiversity Conservation and Environmental Sciences with over 8 years’ experience working in the sustainability sector.