So, Nusra, it’s been a year since you’ve won the Seed Prize. How is Project Mila going?
Project Mila is good. We have utilised 100 kg of organic waste per week and sold 50 kg of Black Soldier Fly Lavae. Community engagement has really improved because we have targeted youth, teenagers and children, during the sports activities and school visits for surveys and sensitization efforts. We have also managed to donate around 30 kg of fras to Pony Junior Academy, it’s just a nearby facility for switching up our green spaces as part of the upcoming climates education initiation.
We have had some challenges with heatwaves affecting production and volunteer availability. But we are now working on outreach and next steps. We have connected with an environmental chemist from the Technical University of Mombasa to see how to expand collaborations through Black Soldier Fly Education Programs. We are also planning a cleaning event with the Roary Club Mombasa which will help with outreach efforts.
Thank you Nusra, that sounds really interesting! What offering from the capacity building have you found the most fulfilling? And why?
From my end, I can say the support has really really helped me and also the learning that I’ve got from Alicia and Ezekiel, my mentors. The CoalitionWild Program has helped my operation remain on track right now despite unpredictable production challenges. So the support has really helped me grow, I’ve learned a lot. Their diverse and experienced backgrounds brought new perspectives and insights. Supporting me in refining and tracking our operational processes and gaps to ensure project sustainability.
You really started with a seed idea and it’s grown into something amazing! We’d love to hear more about working with Alicia and Ezekiel. How have you found that enjoyed your experience with them?
Those guys are just amazing. They’re very supportive. The guidance from Alicia and Ezekiel has been invaluable. Alicia’s guidance on project sustainability, effective research and insights on storytelling have helped us communicate our mission more compellingly. Ezekiel’s focus on measurable impact has sharpened our strategies, ensuring that our efforts lead to tangible results.
How have you found working with the Iris Project in a trust-based an unrestricted way?
I heard about the Iris Project last year and it looked like a miracle to me. I remember when I came up with the black soldier fly idea and I wanted to see it come to action. With the Iris Prize we have been able to see it come to life.
What advice would you have for young people following in your footsteps?
What I can say to young people is that you should not give up. You should always not give up because you never know what’s coming for you tomorrow. My biggest tip would be to believe in yourself. Every small step counts. Start in your community, engage with friends, others around you and push through challenges. Your actions can spark change. Be committed to impact and community empowerment.
Thank you Nusra. What are some of the exciting things coming up for you? What are your next steps and what our project Mila’s next steps?
My next step is supporting an awareness campaign. Raising awareness about environmental issues and sustainable practices in our communities in my community and other communities. I also aim to promote Environmental Conservation efforts. We’re running an educational program, called Kitaa Climate, which means Neighborhood Climate. By educating the community about sustainable practices and the importance of protecting our environment through fun and interactive activities, we strengthen awareness and experience. Community members who once viewed waste as a nuisance now see it as a resource. By converting waste into frass, we’ve shown how their discarded materials can turn their neighborhoods lush and beautiful by supporting green spaces outside homes and public places.
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