BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
MBABANE – The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Student Ambassador, Bandile Mnisi, has proudly represented Eswatini on a global panel of youth changemakers. She was selected for her commitment to community impact through the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Bandile, a Bachelor of Science student in Environmental Health and Food Science at the University of Eswatini, is part of the inaugural cohort of 20 UNDP Student Ambassadors.
She joined the virtual session from the UNDP offices in Mbabane, where she also had the opportunity to meet the UNDP Resident Representative, Henrik Franklin.
Since April, these young leaders have been actively promoting the SDGs within their institutions and communities. Bandile stood out for her strong online presence and successful community events, earning her a place on the international panel.
According to Henrik Franklin, UNDP Resident Representative in Eswatini, “Bandile’s consistent efforts and passion made her an obvious choice. She has demonstrated clear leadership in championing the SDGs and has inspired her peers through impactful action.”
The Student Ambassadors Programme aims to equip youth with practical tools, leadership opportunities, and knowledge to transform ideas into community impact. Ambassadors receive training, visit UNDP-supported projects, and engage in national and global conversations building networks that open doors to future leadership and career pathways.
While there are no current openings, UNDP Eswatini is reviewing lessons from the pilot phase and plans to expand the programme beyond the University of Eswatini. “We will share updates through national and social media when opportunities arise,” Franklin said.
Speaking after the panel, Bandile shared how inspired she felt hearing about the work of her fellow ambassadors “Being young is not an excuse for not making an impact,” she said. “Hearing what others are doing made me realize that courage and action are key.”
She now plans to work more collaboratively with both local and international ambassadors to strengthen community projects. Bandile also emphasized that her passion for SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities has deepened:
“I have seen how inequalities hold people back. I want to focus on projects that promote equal access to opportunities and empower marginalized groups here in Eswatini.”
The UNDP Student Ambassadors Programme continues to be a powerful platform for Eswatini’s youth to lead, learn, and inspire.
(Courtesy Pics)
