Sharon Ringo: A Global Ambassador Leading Change and Inspiring the Next Generation

Mekka Magazine had the honor of sitting down with Sharon Ringo, a young visionary making waves as a Global Ambassador, East African Community Trade & Tourism Ambassador, African Tourism Ambassador, Tanzania’s Tourism Ambassador, Climate Activist, and Founder of the Sharon Ringo Foundation. Sharon’s leadership and passion for environmental advocacy began early, and her journey has been inspiring.

What inspired you to start giving inspirational talks at such a young age? Was there a moment that made you realize you wanted to inspire others?

Sharon Ringo: My father, a businessman and speaker, has always been a huge influence on me. He teaches business and leadership skills, and ever since I was about four years old, he would take me to his events. When I turned five, I saw him speak with so much confidence and purpose—it really struck a chord with me. I asked him once why he worked so hard, and he told me, “Because I want to make the world a better place for you and many others around the globe.” That was the moment a seed was planted. I realized even at a young age, we can inspire big ideas in people’s hearts. I wanted to encourage other children like me to see their potential and believe that they can change the world too. One early memory I have is seeing children in Dodoma living in very tough conditions. My dad had taught me about the importance of trees, so I started talking to those kids about planting trees. We ended up planting five trees at the college where my mom worked. That was the beginning of my journey. Since then, I’ve spoken on both small and big platforms, including the United Nations Environmental Assembly, the East African Community, COP27 and COP29, African Union events, Plan International, Save the Children, and many others. I’ve also had the honor of being interviewed by BBC, DW, VOA, and several local and international media outlets. My journey is just beginning, and I hope to continue making a huge impact, just like my dad and other great leaders.

How did it feel to be recognized as the top young speaker by the East African Speakers Bureau in 2019 and 2021? Did that change your view of yourself as a leader?

Sharon Ringo: It was such a humbling experience and also empowering. Those recognitions made me realize that leadership isn’t about age—it’s about the impact you have. They reminded me that even as a child, my voice could make a difference and reach people far beyond my home. It strengthened my commitment to keep using my platform to amplify the voices of young people everywhere.

“The Big Five” by author Sharon Ringo.

What sparked your passion for promoting tourism in Tanzania, and why is it important for others to see the beauty of your country?

Sharon Ringo: Tanzania is home to some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world—Mount Kilimanjaro, the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Zanzibar, and so much more. I believe that seeing this beauty firsthand can completely change how people view the importance of protecting our planet. Promoting tourism not only showcases Tanzania’s treasures to the world, but it also provides economic opportunities that can lift entire communities, especially children and youth living in poverty. When tourists visit, they contribute to our economy, helping local people access education, healthcare, and other basic services. For me, seeing the impact tourism can have on people’s lives makes it all worth it. I’m determined to work hard to make Tanzania and Africa a top tourist destination, so that we can all benefit from the incredible beauty and opportunities we’ve been given.

What was it like to support Her Excellency Samia Suluhu Hassan during The Royal Tour? Did you learn anything new about Tanzania through that experience?

Sharon Ringo: It was such an honor to stand beside a visionary leader like President Samia Suluhu Hassan. Through The Royal Tour, I gained a deeper appreciation for how our country’s culture, history, and nature are all so interconnected. Each region of Tanzania has its own unique story to tell, and that experience inspired me to keep sharing those stories with the world. I am grateful for our President and her efforts to highlight Tanzania’s beauty, and I hope her work continues to inspire many young people.

Why is it important to protect nature while promoting tourism? How are the two connected?

Sharon Ringo: Tourism depends on the beauty of nature, and nature thrives when we take care of it. If we don’t protect our environment, there won’t be anything left for future generations to enjoy. Sustainable tourism is all about balancing these two things. Protecting nature ensures that we can continue to share it with visitors, while tourism provides the resources needed to maintain it. In my mind, they go hand in hand—you can’t have one without the other.

Ambassador. Sharon Ringo, Youth Representative at the 2024 UNEP Gala of Hope, Nairobi, Kenya, on February 27, 2024.

Your campaign “MAMA KANITUMA, Africa Go Green” has planted over 57,500 trees. What has been the most exciting part of this project, and how do you inspire others to get involved?

Sharon Ringo: The most exciting part for me has been watching children and young people take the lead in planting trees. It shows how much power we have as a generation to make real changes for our planet. We’re aiming to plant 10 million trees by 2028, and I encourage others by reminding them that every tree planted is a step closer to a greener, healthier world. Through school clubs, speeches, my podcast, and even my books, I’m constantly spreading the word. I’ve also inspired adults, appointing 57 global ambassadors, including 36 in America. The goal is to have 350 global ambassadors by 2028, all working together to make a real impact.

What was it like planting trees on Mount Kilimanjaro? Did you have any memorable moments?

Sharon Ringo: Planting trees on Mount Kilimanjaro was an unforgettable experience. It felt like we were planting seeds of hope and resilience in one of the most important places on earth. One moment that stands out is seeing the kids who joined us—they were so full of energy and pride, knowing they were part of something special. It really showed me how teamwork can make anything possible. And the support we received from the government, especially through Kilimanjaro National Park, reminded me that when you make a positive impact, people and organizations will stand by you.

Sharon Ringo

When you’re not busy with your talks, campaigns, and projects, what do you enjoy doing for fun?

Sharon Ringo: I love spending time with my siblings and friends. Whether we’re reading, playing games, or exploring nature, I always find joy in being close to the people I care about. I also enjoy painting, journaling, singing, swimming, and playing basketball to stay healthy and energized. And of course, traveling is a big passion of mine—I love learning and exploring new places.

As the oldest sibling in your family, do you feel that being a big sister has helped you become a better leader?

Sharon Ringo: Definitely! Being a big sister has taught me to listen, guide, and sometimes compromise. My siblings inspire me to lead with kindness and to always think about how my actions affect others. They are my biggest supporters, and they’ve been with me every step of my journey.

What advice would you give to other kids who want to make a difference in their communities?

Sharon Ringo: My advice is to start small, but dream big. Every change begins with a single step, whether it’s planting a tree, starting a club, or simply speaking up. Believe in yourself, find what you’re passionate about, and always remember—no one is too young to make a difference. Most importantly, put God first in everything you do and give it your all. We have a limited time to leave our mark on the world, so make it count.

Sharon Ringo Foundation and WWFTanzania press conference for the Living Planet Report 2024.

What are your dreams for the future? Is there anything new you’d like to try as a leader, tourism influencer, or climate activist?

Sharon Ringo: I dream of planting 10 million trees across East Africa and appointing 350 global ambassadors to promote climate action and sustainable tourism. I’d also love to create an international platform where children can share their ideas and solutions for the world’s challenges. Ultimately, I want to see Africa go green and become a top tourist destination. It’s a big dream, but I believe we can make it happen together!

Sharon’s incredible journey and her unwavering passion for leadership and sustainability continue to inspire young people around the world. We are excited to witness the amazing impact she will continue to make. Please follow, support, and donate to her foundation to learn more about how you can get involved at @sharonringomowo and @sharonringofoundation.

Photo credits: Courtesy of Sharon Ringo and the Sharon Ringo Foundation.