For Fatou Kiné Gueye, an M.P.A. in Environmental Science and Policy (MPA-ESP) student at Columbia’s School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA), protecting the environment isn’t just a passion; it’s a mission rooted in heritage and hope for a better future.
Growing up in Senegal, Gueye developed a deep connection to the ocean and a desire to serve her community. Her experiences in environmental consulting opened her eyes to the need for stronger leadership and policy frameworks in her home country, and led her to pursue a career in environmental policy.
In the conversation below, Gueye shares her highlights from the MPA-ESP program, her perspective on climate action and the ambitions she holds for the future.
What sparked your interest in the environment and climate policy?
Senegal is a big part of my identity, and I’ve always felt deeply connected to my home. Growing up, I was fascinated by the environment. My dad, who has a deep knowledge of agriculture, played a big role in shaping that interest. My sister and I often thought about how we could serve our community, which sparked my passion for environmental issues.
Initially, I wanted to work in marine conservation because of my love for the ocean. But, when I worked as an environmental consultant in Senegal, I realized that while our country has immense potential and resources, we lack the leadership and structural systems needed to manage them effectively. The necessary tools and policies simply aren’t in place. That realization led me to pursue a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences. I knew that I needed to understand the science at a fundamental level to help design policies that reflect that understanding.
How has your time at SIPA helped further your interest? What has surprised you the most about the program?
SIPA has shown me that I don’t have to limit myself to one area. I can explore environmental justice, energy, water and ocean-related issues all within the same space. It’s not just about studying these topics but about applying them—bringing different communities to the table and working toward meaningful change.
SIPA is incredibly diverse, but I’ve noticed a lack of representation from the African community. That being said, the level of humanity I’ve experienced here has been inspiring. My classmates bring such varied academic and professional backgrounds, and the diversity of perspectives makes for amazing discussions.
What have been the biggest lessons you’ve learned about climate change at SIPA?
One of the most eye-opening classes I’ve taken is Meeting Climate Change at All Levels of Government. It has completely changed the way I think about climate action. I hadn’t realized just how political climate issues are—having all the scientific data in the world isn’t enough if you don’t understand the political realities that shape decision-making. This class has shown me that effective climate action requires both scientific knowledge and political awareness.
What has been your favorite part of the MPA-ESP program?
The cohort. I love how diverse our group is—some of my classmates have backgrounds in finance, government and consulting, while I came straight out of undergrad. This program has provided the guidance I needed, and the conversations I’ve had with my peers have been invaluable. My second favorite part is my workshop. Working with Louise Rosen on designing different parts of real-world legislation and program management really helped me understand how legislation can be implemented.
How are you planning to advance your career using the skills you’ve learned at SIPA? What climate issue do you hope to focus on in the future?
I want to focus on policy analysis, whether it is in the private or the public sector. After gaining some experience, I plan to return home. In the West, sustainability and climate action are in the implementation phase, but back home, we haven’t even fully started. It’s important to me to take what I’ve learned here and help drive change in Senegal.
I also hope to focus on environmental justice. There are so many issues that frustrate me, but one that stands out is plastic waste. While researching, I learned about how developed countries ship their waste to poorer nations—it’s an unsettling reality. This inspired me to write an essay outlining what a global plastics treaty should look like.
I’m also deeply interested in working on decolonizing the environment. Many of the countries most impacted by climate change are the least responsible for greenhouse gas emissions. Yet, they are often treated as just another stakeholder rather than as frontline communities facing the worst consequences. I want to highlight these disparities and push for more just and equitable climate solutions.
