Erfan was selected to participate in the CoalitionWILD EXCELerator Flex Program 2025, a globally recognised leadership and capacity-building initiative designed to support emerging environmental leaders and changemakers. The program brings together young advocates from diverse regions and disciplines, equipping them with the skills, frameworks, and confidence needed to design and implement impactful environmental initiatives.
The EXCELerator Program is a structured, multi-month learning experience focused on strengthening leadership, conservation planning, advocacy, and communication. Through a carefully curated curriculum, participants are guided through the process of transforming ideas into actionable, community-driven solutions to environmental challenges. The Flex format allows participants to engage with the program at their own pace, making it accessible to individuals balancing professional, academic, or advocacy commitments across different time zones.
Throughout the program, Erfan engaged with a series of in-depth learning modules covering key topics such as environmental project design, strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, conservation leadership, and effective storytelling. These sessions combined theory with practical application, encouraging participants to critically assess real-world environmental issues and develop thoughtful, evidence-based responses.
A core component of the EXCELerator experience is its emphasis on collaboration and peer learning. Erfan took part in interactive discussions with fellow participants from varied cultural, professional, and geographic backgrounds. These exchanges fostered a deeper understanding of global environmental challenges while highlighting the importance of local knowledge, inclusive leadership, and cross-cultural perspectives in driving meaningful change.
The program also introduced participants to globally recognised conservation planning frameworks, guiding them through structured approaches to defining problems, setting clear objectives, identifying stakeholders, and designing measurable actions. This methodology strengthened Erfan’s ability to approach environmental initiatives with clarity, accountability, and long-term impact in mind.
Beyond technical skills, the EXCELerator Flex Program placed strong emphasis on personal growth and purpose-driven leadership. Through reflective exercises and guided learning, Erfan further refined his role as an environmental advocate and storyteller, recognising the power of narrative in mobilising communities, influencing decision-makers, and inspiring action.
The support and guidance provided by program mentors and organisers played a significant role in shaping the experience. Their expertise, encouragement, and commitment to youth-led environmental action created a learning environment rooted in trust, inclusivity, and shared ambition. Equally impactful were the fellow participants, whose passion, insight, and lived experiences contributed to a rich and inspiring journey.
Reflecting on the program, Erfan views his participation in the CoalitionWILD EXCELerator Flex Program 2025 as a meaningful milestone in his advocacy journey. The knowledge, skills, and global connections gained through the experience will continue to inform his work and strengthen his commitment to environmental conservation and impactful storytelling.
As he moves forward, Erfan is dedicated to applying what he has learned, translating ideas into action, and continuing to create positive environmental impact—one step at a time.
