Meet Nigeria’s Amanda, named UK’s changemaker for 2024  

Award-winning activist and advocate for social justice, Amanda Amaeshi, has been named My Life My Say’s “Changemaker of the Year” for 2024.

The announcement was made during the charity’s “Next Generation Conference,” held on 22 November 2024 at the Barbican Centre in London.

The event also serves as a key platform for youth-led discussions on innovative solutions to societal challenges, featuring prominent speakers, activists, and young leaders.

Amanda, a final-year Law student at University College London, won the award through a public vote, standing out among nominees such as climate activist, Clover Hogan, and artist Jordan Stephens.

In a statement, her father, Professor Kenneth Amaeshi, described Amanda’s recognition as a testament to her dedication to advocating for change.

“Amanda emerged the winner from a shortlist of inspiring changemakers,” he said.

Amanda’s journey as an activist began in 2017 when she won the Young Reporters for the Environment competition for her work on food waste solutions in Scotland.

Her advocacy gained further momentum when she served as an ambassador for Scotland’s Year of Young People in 2018, promoting youth participation in politics and the rights of young people.

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She has since taken on various roles, including membership of Scotland’s First Minister’s National Advisory Council on Women and Girls, where she contributes to intersectional policy development.

Her work with organisations such as Girlguiding Scotland, Intercultural Youth Scotland, and the Young Women’s Movement Scotland has cemented her reputation as a tireless advocate for gender equality and anti-racism.

Amanda’s father praised her ability to inspire action, saying, “She uses her voice to engage decision-makers, challenge societal norms, and inspire collective action against injustices.”

Amanda’s writings for *The National* have also amplified her advocacy, providing a different perspective on social issues and encouraging readers to take collective action.

Speaking after receiving the award, Amanda expressed her gratitude, saying, “I’m deeply honoured by this recognition and inspired by everyone who voted and supported me on this journey.

Together, we can create a more just and equitable world,” she said.