As we commemorate Black History Month at Clean Water Action, we shine a light on individuals whose contributions have not only shaped history but continue to inspire us to strive for a better future. Today, we have the privilege of honoring a remarkable Clean Water Champion, Omesa Mokaya whose dedication embodies the spirit of this month of celebration and reflection.
Omesa has a fervent passion for environmental and climate justice and equity. He is deeply committed to addressing issues that bedevil Environmental Justice (EJ) and underserved communities at the front lines of climate change. Originally from Kenya, Omesa moved to Worcester, Massachusetts in 2021 when he joined Graduate School at Clark University. He is the Host and Producer of The Climate Voices Podcast, a unique platform that breaks siloes and bridges the communication gap between policymakers, scientists, researchers, climate activists, and community practitioners from around the globe. Through insightful conversations and sharing success stories, he aims to inspire and mobilize collective action toward a more just, sustainable, and resilient world.
Omesa holds a master’s degree in environmental science & policy with a concentration in climate change impacts & adaptation. He has over eight years of experience in environmental campaigning and climate advocacy and currently works at Clean Water Action as the Youth Engagement Program Manager for the Massachusetts office. In this role, he is adapting the Youth Action Collaborative curriculum and empowering youth, both in high school and college, to take action on environmental issues in Massachusetts, USA. Before joining Clean Water Action, Omesa was an Energy Equity Fellow at Energy Allies and before that, he was an Environmental Justice Climate Equity Fellow at MobilizeGreen. Omesa is also a photographer and the founder and editor of the OmesaWorld Blog.
In a world where systemic inequalities persist, Omesa has fearlessly challenged the status quo, refusing to accept that access to clean water should be determined by one's race, socioeconomic status, or geographical location. He has confronted the intersectional challenges faced by Black communities, recognizing that environmental racism often disproportionately impacts people of color, depriving them of their basic rights to clean and safe water.
Thank you, Omesa, for your unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and the fundamental right to clean water. Your legacy will continue to inspire generations to come, reminding us that the pursuit of a more just and equitable world is both a privilege and a responsibility.
Congratulations Omesa Mokaya, you are a Clean Water Champion!
