Max Thabiso Edkins, Climate communications expert, World Bank
Max Thabiso Edkins served as a climate communications expert with the Connect4Climate (C4C) programme. Born in Lesotho on April 20, 1983, Max grew up between Lesotho, Germany, and South Africa. He completed undergraduate degrees in natural science, conservation biology, and economics at the University of Cape Town and held an MSc in environmental change and management from Oxford University. Before joining C4C in 2013, Max worked as a marine biologist, lecturer, and renewable energy specialist.
Max was in the vanguard of the battle for hearts and minds that need to be won to overcome the threat of climate change, working tirelessly as a communicator and organizer to put climate action at the top of the global agenda. Using film, technology, sports, and the latest tools of digital media, he helped marshal an army of young activists to convince political leaders to act urgently.
Among his many achievements were contributions to the climate change projection on St. Peter's Basilica in Rome and facilitation of Swedish youth activist Greta Thunberg's appearance at the COP24 climate meeting. Max was also a key driver behind the Uniting4Climate initiative, partnering with Germany, Fiji and the UNFCCC around the COP23 to advocate for action and showcase climate solutions. Max was also known for the pioneering partnerships he helped forge with groups like the International Olympic Committee and Formula E eco-racing.
Max is survived by his wife Astrid, 3-year old son, brother and parents. Countless others around the world lament the loss of a friend, colleague and role model.
Biographical information and photo provided by the World Bank.