UX IN CLIMATE: Impact and ideas - Cohort 1 ends and Cohort 2 begins
A first chapter full of promise
After several months of hard work, exchanges and collaboration, Cohort 1 of the UX in Climate programme has officially come to an end. This ambitious programme, designed to strengthen skills in human-centred design and encourage innovative solutions to climate challenges, brought together 80 passionate and committed women from 4 countries: Senegal, Togo, Benin and Côte d'Ivoire.
During this first edition, the participants were able to discover and put the UX Design methods into practice to design projects that respond to local climate issues. This programme was a unique opportunity to create synergies between innovation, community involvement, and sustainability.
A look back at the highlights of Cohort 1
1. A stronger women's network
One of the great successes of this cohort is the creation of a dynamic community of women leaders in climate tech. The participants have benefited not only from intensive training, but also from enriching exchanges between peers and experts.
2. Concrete and promising projects
Thanks to the collaborative workshops and the final weekathon, a number of innovative projects have come to fruition. These solutions, designed to have a positive and tangible impact, are now ready to be submitted to pre-acceleration programmes such as CATAL1.5°T.
3. Intensive and practical learning
- UX Masterclass: Participants acquired key skills in user-centred design, a methodology that places users' real needs at the heart of climate solutions.
- Design workshops: Practical sessions enabled them to transform their ideas into solid prototypes adapted to local realities.
- 2-week Weekathon: This final sprint was an opportunity for the teams to finalise their concepts and present them to a panel of experts.
4. Inspiring testimonials
Several participants shared their experiences:
"Not only did I acquire new skills, but I now include human-centred prototyping and, above all, climate impacts in my projects and in the solutions I propose to my customers. I've also learnt all the aspects to consider before presenting your project to investors, because I've had several projects that have won awards on a continental level, but I've never been able to reach the bigger investors I was aiming for, being much more focused on developing my solution. I'm much better equipped now thanks to this training."
"I'm more efficient in the work I'm given, I try to dig deeper to identify the root causes of problems, I start by putting people's well-being at the centre of my actions, the way I work with my colleagues has improved a lot, I'm more confident, more serene, more imposing. In short, I'm an improved version of myself before the programme. Thank you so much."
Cohort 2 on the way
Building on the success of the first edition, Cohort 2 of the UX IN CLIMATE programme is preparing to welcome a new wave of ambitious participants. The programme will return on 27 January 2025, with an enriched format and even bolder objectives.
Why join Cohort 2?
- In-depth training: Develop skills in UX Design, designing sustainable solutions and leadership.
- Expert support: Benefit from personalised coaching and experienced mentors.
- Pre-acceleration opportunities: Join a pipeline to programme like CATAL1.5°T to boost your projects.
- A unique network: Collaborate with women leaders and climate experts.
Who can apply?
- Applications are open to women living in Senegal, Togo, Benin and Côte d'Ivoire who are passionate about climate issues and ready to commit to a demanding programme.
- Candidates who have already participated in cohort 1 are not eligible to apply for cohort 2.
Important dates
- Applications open: 27 January 2025
- Closing date for applications: 16 February 2025
- Start of programme: Early March 2025
About CATAL1.5°T
The CATAL1.5°T Initiative aims to boost investment in high-impact, high-return, early-stage climate tech ventures from the Global South. To ensure long-lasting impact, the initiative also strengthens climate tech networks within regional start-up and venture capital ecosystems. Regional CATAL1.5°T platforms in Latin America and West Africa are run by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH in cooperation with EIT Climate-KIC, Tecnológico de Monterrey and Investisseurs & Partenaires (I&P). The CATAL1.5°T Initiative is funded by the international Green Climate Fund (GCF) and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). The UX in Climate programme focuses particularly on empowering women and encouraging innovation in climate technologies. In partnership with recognized organizations like YUX Academy, the CATAL1.5°T initiative is committed to creating an environment conducive to learning and idea exchange.
About YUX Academy
YUX Academy is an institution dedicated to training in design and user experience created by YUX Design. Its aim is to train professionals capable of designing user-centred solutions, integrating the principles of design thinking and innovation. Through its programmes, YUX Academy is committed to strengthening the skills of people in the technology sector, preparing them to meet contemporary challenges.
Join the movement
The UX IN CLIMATE programme is not just training, it's a movement for a better future. If you're passionate about the climate and motivated to create sustainable solutions, don't miss this opportunity.
Apply today and be part of the change!
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