A teacher’s dream beyond the classroom

At just 25, Nicholus Thombozi stands at the front of a crowded classroom at Chitawira Primary School in Blantyre, teaching mathematics and English to eager learners. But when the final bell rings, his work is far from over.

Nicholus is part of a new wave of young Malawians proving that innovation does not wait for age, title or perfect conditions. And his journey—from a primary school teacher to a budding climate-tech innovator—is quickly becoming a source of inspiration for many.

“I have always believed that young people can solve real problems if they are given the right platform,” he says, his voice steady with conviction. “I wanted to be part of that change.”

From classroom to community leadership

Beyond his teaching duties, Nicholus serves as an arts administrator at the Youth Developers Collaboration Theatre and youth leader for the Soche Youth Club. These roles, he says, sharpened his passion for community development and youth empowerment.

But 2024 marked a turning point.

That year, he was selected to join the Climate and Incubation Programme at the Malawi University of Science and Technology’s African Drone and Data Academy (ADDA). His entry point was an innovative idea he called the Ulalo Waste Management Project—a concept aimed at improving waste management systems in Blantyre’s urban communities.

“I wanted to address the waste problem I see every day,” he explains. “It affects our health, our environment and even our dignity.”

A call that changed everything

After completing the initial training, Nicholus received a call he describes as “overwhelming.” ADDA wanted him—and other standout participants—back for the prototype phase, the stage where ideas begin transforming into real-world solutions.

“It felt unreal,” he recalls. “Being called back meant someone believed in my idea. It was a chance to learn more, to build something tangible, and to grow my confidence as a young innovator.”

Working under the team name Green Getters, Nicholus and two colleagues are now developing Ulimi Digital Plus, a digital platform designed to support farmers with timely weather forecasts and a direct marketplace for produce.

The app aims to help farmers make informed decisions, reduce losses and connect directly with buyers.

“Farmers will be able to advertise their produce and buyers can easily access what they need,” he says. “It’s about strengthening livelihoods and making agriculture smarter.”

Youth and climate action: A long road ahead

Despite his optimism, Nicholus is candid about the challenges facing youth participation in climate-smart innovation.

“Many young people have the ideas, but not the resources,” he says. “And sometimes, there’s a lack of commitment. But we can’t afford to give up.”

His advice to fellow youth is simple but powerful: "Be a jack of all trades. Learn something new every day. The more skills you have, the more you can contribute to national development."

A vote of confidence from ADDA

According to Racheal Sibale, Lead for the Climate Incubation Unit at ADDA, Nicholus’s team is among 10 groups selected for the prototyping phase after a rigorous review process.

“These young innovators showed strong potential and commitment,” she says. “We believe their solutions can make a real impact.”

Sibale says Nicholus’ innovative work is supported by the Climate Incubation Programme, which was launched in 2024 to empower youth—especially those from marginalized communities—with climate knowledge and practical innovation skills. UNICEF, through its Social Innovation work, has been instrumental in supporting the initiative.

Nicholus is determined that the knowledge he gains will not end with him. As a teacher and youth leader, he sees himself as a bridge—passing on skills, inspiring curiosity and encouraging others to step into innovation.

“I am grateful to ADDA and MUST,” he says. “What I’m learning will help me, but it will also help my students, my community and other young people who look up to me.”