The Corpers’ Journey Advocacy Network (CJAN) has welcomed Mrs. Mariam Hamzat, a PhD researcher in Marine and Environmental Sciences at Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, United States, as its Special Adviser on International Development, Sustainability, Grants and Strategic Partnerships.
Announcing the appointment, Amb. Taiwo Ajayi, Founder and Lead Strategist of the Corpers’ Journey Advocacy Network (CJAN) and Director of Youth Advocacy and Policy of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), described Mariam Hamzat’s appointment as a strategic move aimed at strengthening the organization’s sustainability, international development, grants, and partnership initiatives. He noted that her academic accomplishments, research expertise, and commitment to youth development would add immense value to the organization’s mission of creating opportunities for young Nigerians.
The appointment, announced by the youth-focused advocacy organization, is aimed at strengthening CJAN’s efforts in youth development, sustainability advocacy, international collaboration, and institutional growth.
According to the organization, Hamzat’s appointment reflects her outstanding contributions to sustainability advocacy, climate education, research, youth development, and her commitment to advancing solutions that empower young people and promote sustainable development.
CJAN noted that as it continues to expand its impact and strengthen its institutional capacity, the organization recognizes the importance of engaging professionals with global perspectives and proven expertise in development initiatives that benefit young people.
In her new advisory role, Hamzat will provide strategic guidance on international partnerships and stakeholder engagement, grant sourcing and resource mobilization, fellowship and capacity-building opportunities, sustainability and climate-related initiatives, institutional development, youth empowerment programmes, and collaborations with development partners, academic institutions, and international organizations.
Hamzat is currently pursuing a PhD in Marine and Environmental Sciences at Northeastern University, where her research focuses on improving the resilience of agricultural food systems and exploring how agricultural landscapes can support both farmer livelihoods and ecological sustainability.
She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Biology from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Nigeria. Beyond academia, she is widely recognized as an environmental journalist and sustainability advocate committed to amplifying community voices in climate and development conversations.
Through research, storytelling, and advocacy, she promotes environmental awareness and works to build more equitable and resilient food systems. Her work is driven by a passion for translating scientific research into practical knowledge that farmers, communities, and policymakers can use to address environmental and development challenges.
Speaking on the appointment, CJAN expressed confidence that Hamzat’s international academic exposure, research expertise, and dedication to youth-centred development would contribute significantly to the organization’s vision of creating opportunities for Nigerian youths while strengthening its engagement within national and global development ecosystems.
The organization further stated that her professional experience and network would be instrumental in advancing strategic initiatives focused on sustainability, international partnerships, youth leadership, and long-term institutional development.
Hamzat has formally accepted the appointment, pledging to support the vision, mission, and objectives of CJAN through strategic guidance, professional expertise, and collaborative efforts aimed at advancing youth development, sustainability, international partnerships, and organizational growth.
The appointment took effect following her acceptance on June 29, 2026.