Amplifying YouthMappers on the International Stage

On May 7th, I had the honor of receiving the Group on Earth Observations (GEO) Emerging Leader Award 2025 at the GEO Awards Ceremony in Rome—a deeply humbling moment that reflects the collective effort of many, not just one.

This recognition shines a light on the transformative work we are doing in East Africa and across the globe to leverage geospatial data for conservation, climate resilience, and community empowerment. But at its core, this award also belongs to a movement that nurtured my journey—YouthMappers.

Through YouthMappers, I gained more than just technical skills. I found a community that believes in youth-led innovation, open data, and the power of mapping to solve real-world problems. These values have guided my work at the Jane Goodall Institute Uganda, where I’ve helped build systems to monitor forest restoration, track over 6 million trees, and empower local communities through mobile GIS and remote sensing tools.

What started as university-based mapping chapters has grown into a global force for good. YouthMappers continues to equip the next generation of geospatial leaders, and this award is a testament to that shared vision. It reminds us that the work we do—whether mapping forest cover, disaster response zones, or access to health services—has ripple effects far beyond the screen.

To the entire YouthMappers network, thank you for building a platform where young people can lead, learn, and make a measurable difference. This award is a reflection of our collective impact and a sign of all that lies ahead.

Let’s keep mapping the future—together.

About the Author

Michael Jurua

Regional Ambassador – East Africa, YouthMappers

GEO Emerging Leader Award 2025 Recipient