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Experiences on the Island of Community Learning 

Tasks, work, new projects. Exam preparation, submissions, work, more assignments, more exams, more new projects. Lectures, meditation time scheduled in the calendar, deleted, missed. Feeling of enthusiasm and anxiety that everything is good but at the same time nothing is, everything will get better and everything will go to waste. Eco-anxiety and university days. It would be nice to get out of this.

I rush with the tram with the usual feeling of being late again on my back, even though I promised last time that I would get there on time. Fifteen minutes passed before I was able to arrive mentally, before I put down my mental bags and stepped through the door. I’m always waiting to cross this door and to finally be able to look mockingly at the turned off screen of my phone, thinking that now it can send me endless pop-up notifications, but I won’t bother about it. I’m finally in a much better place.

Island in the middle of the city

The three hours of each session of the Bolygó Club are as if you have landed on some island, which at the same time takes you far away from the world, and yet it is all about how the world works. Internal rebellion, conscious presence. It took me several sessions to learn how to arrive at the training well. On weekdays, it was a great treasure for me that I didn’t have screen time for three hours, and all it took was an agreement at the beginning of the training that we’ll put the phones down. There is no work and university, just understanding and joint thinking about exciting topics on our little island.

Of course, this did not just happen by itself, we owe a lot to Olgi and Panka, who created this safe environment. Bolygó Club has become a place where there are no wrong questions or wrong answers, no judgment and no anxiety about always wanting to fit it. We were able to leave all of these feelings outside the door, which I am really grateful for.

Although we didn’t even know each other at the first session, it was as if we had met a thousand years ago. Our common interest, the love of nature, connected us even before, without even knowing. In addition to the many things that we had in common with the participants, the differences were the most beautiful, as we were able to see the same thing from different perspectives, and this opened up new paths for us.

Diving deeper into the ocean of ecological sustainability

This safe environment also gave us the opportunity to develop deeper and deeper knowledge about our existing interests. Together, we came to question previously unquestionable “truths” and we gradually expanded our knowledge about ecological sustainability. Each time, we approached the topic from a different perspective, which were organically connected to each other during the six-month process.

Although I had read a lot before, these occasions were able to give me something new. I knew that climate crisis and ecological crisis are not synonyms, but we really got to understand the difference between the two concepts from Katalin Rodics’ presentation and her moving experiences. I also came across the concept of permaculture, but it was only on the training that I, together with the others, dived deeper into the mysteries of the principles of permaculture under the guidance of Anna Werlein. Green economics is also organically connected to my professional path, yet the training helped me a lot in how I could argue in favor of it with my friends.

We got to know the concept of climate justice, which was taught to us directly from Kenya by the colleagues of Ubunifu Hub, and finally we got a glimpse into the world of local and international climate movements, so that we can plan our own action inspired by them.

In other words, in addition to learning a lot of new things, the training really helped in deepening our already existing knowledge, because by looking behind the good-sounding slogans, we could get to know each theory, approach or worldview on a deeper level. It was also useful that we did all of this together, as we were able to discuss topics that we might not have thought about individually. The theoretical knowledge transfer was always followed by a creative activity, which made the community learning more tangible and experiential.

Acting as individuals?

The comment that we are “only drops in the ocean” often comes up regarding the effectiveness of individual actions. And this can make even the most committed people unsure whether we are really on the right track. However, Bolygó Club also answered this through the community.

In addition to learning, we also helped each other a lot to get through any bumps and difficulties. Many, many new ideas, new approaches, and alternative thoughts could appear, which pushed us over the obstacles. On the way, we also experienced that we are by no means alone with our dilemmas and fears, and that there are many of us who, just like us, worry about the future of our planet and our future on the planet.

In a community like this, even individual actions did not seem so ineffective. We could immediately feel that our little actions will gradually affect others, and through our own community, the impact that we can achieve with our actions is amplified. This is why these supportive third places after home and work or school are becoming more and more important, because they help to overcome the hopelessness resulting from being alone and fighting alone.

It’s also good for me, not just for the Planet

And this is not only good for our planet, but also for us. Only a few occasions were enough to create an atmosphere of trust in our caring community, in which we could share our difficulties with each other. We were also able to talk about the burdens of hectic everyday life, climate anxiety and frustrating experiences. The occasions always began by highlighting the most special encounters of the previous weeks, which helped us to look with gratitude at the world around us.

In short, the Bolygó Club did not only do good for the Earth, but also for our own health. As I wrote in the introduction, it became an island where we could finally put down work, school and especially the phone, so we could really be present for three hours. These were really deep, community “immersions” in the given topics, which filled me with energy and life.

Hope

And these experiences are essential in order to be able to continue our journey towards a more harmonious human community. For me, the Bolygó Club meant hope, because I got to know many, many people who, like me, are concerned about the future of the Earth, humanity and human communities, and people who, in spite of this, or more because of this, act for change.

It gave me hope that we are not alone facing the problems, but also we’re not alone searching for solutions. It gave me hope that a more sustainable lifestyle does not actually mean a sacrifice, but it gives people a more wholesome life. It gave us hope that we do in fact shape our future and that ecological systems will be our allies if we look at them that way and don’t want to exploit them. We can only succeed together, and together we will succeed. Everything is one.

Through eight sessions, the participants of the first Bolygó Club training program were able to get a glimpse into the mysteries of the climate and ecological crisis, as well as green activism, in order to use the new knowledge to organize an awareness campaign. 

Written by Kovács Máté

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Rainbow Resilience

This summer, from July 12th to 17th, we went on a transformative journey to the breathtaking Lori region of Armenia with 25 like-minded young individuals. Our time there was dedicated to nurturing self-care and cultivating resilience through practices that help us manage the daily stresses and growing anxieties about the future. Surrounded by the serene beauty of Lori forests, we focused on techniques to strengthen our inner well-being and face life’s challenges with renewed strength.

We went on a camp, called “Rainbow Resilience”. The camp has been organized by Armenian Progressive Youth and came into reality with huge support of Alternative Youth Center that has always provided safe space to Armenian queer youth and to Queerlab Armenia local youth initiative for realizing their small local events.

The camp aimed at creating a supportive, inclusive and safe(r) space for young LGBTIQ+ identifying young people living in Yerevan and 10 regions of Armenia to support their physical, mental, and emotional well-being while building connections and building community resilience.

The serene beauty of nature provided the perfect setting for us to unwind, relax, and reconnect with our inner selves. Our program featured a range of activities focused on mental and emotional well-being, including mindfulness practices, yoga, meditation, and relaxation exercises. We also explored various tools to support the mental health of LGBTIQ+ young people, emphasizing the crucial role we, as LGBTIQ+ activists, youth workers, and educators, can play in promoting mental health and well-being within our communities.

“Queer individuals living in patriarchal, traditional, and closed societies like Armenian society face numerous obstacles, including fear, insecurity, anxiety, and a high risk of abandonment and rejection. These challenges contribute to significant mental health burdens. A self-care camp offers a beautiful blend of elements: a supportive community of familiar and new faces, a serene environment away from the city, and the chance to connect with nature.”, says Anush, a social worker from Sexual Assault Crisis Center in Armenia.

Anush Gabrielyan from Sexual Assault Crisis Center in Armenia holds a workshop on healthy relationships

“During the camp, I learned anti-stress exercises, and gained valuable insights during the “Healthy Relationships” seminar, which helped me re-evaluate the importance of mutual support. The art therapy session impressed me the most. It was about connecting with oneself, understanding self-perception, and embracing self-love. I’m excited to continue exploring it on my own and would love to experience it again”, says Siranush, one of the participants.

“Being part of the self-care camp was a truly valuable experience for me as a youth worker. It deepened my understanding of mental health and provided me with important tools for working mindfully with the queer community”, adds Ruben, a youth worker from APY.

“In Armenia, there are very few safe and welcoming spaces for queer people or allies, so this camp was a rare opportunity for me to connect, work, and relax with others from my community who are also actively involved in the youth sector or activism in general”, continues Ghazar, another active youth worker.

“Self-care is a topic that we often overlook or push to the background. Therefore, it’s essential to explore different self-care practices through camps like this one. I really enjoyed the body theater and yoga sessions. Overall, the camp was well-organized and very productive”, tells Emma an independent drag artist.
Many youth organizations hesitate to openly embrace or include queer youth, often avoiding projects or events centered around LGBTIQ+ inclusion. This mindset needs to change. It’s crucial for youth workers in Armenia to receive training and be prepared to support and work with queer youth, fostering an inclusive environment for all.

We plan to continue our local initiatives after the camp, with activities like yoga and meditation. It’s truly wonderful to have the Alternative Youth Center as a welcoming and supportive space for queer youth and their activities. Such openly inclusive youth spaces are rare, or even none, and Alternative Youth Center stands out as a frontrunner in fostering a sense of belonging and acceptance.

The camp was a key component of a larger project supported and funded by the European Youth Foundation of the Council of Europe.

Known for their commitment to green initiatives across Europe, the foundation is an excellent resource for those with innovative ideas for climate-related projects. If you’re passionate about making a difference in environmental sustainability, this is a valuable avenue for securing funding and bringing your vision to life.

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An Unforgettable Youth Exchange in Armenia

This past week, a remarkable youth exchange program unfolded in the scenic beauty of Armenia, bringing together a diverse group of young advocates and activists from countries across the globe. Participants from Hungary, Sweden, Armenia, Bulgaria, Ukraine, Kenya, Cameroon, and South Africa gathered for an immersive experience organized by partner organizations and Planet One, an initiative dedicated to fostering global youth connections, creating common physical places and providing tools for learning-by-doing.

Participants from Sweden, Hungary and Armenia discussing their expectations from the program

The picturesque setting of the Vanatuan Hotel in Dilijan, Armenia, provided the perfect backdrop for this life-changing event. Each morning, waking up to the breathtaking mountain views was nothing short of magical. The natural beauty of Armenia served as both inspiration and tranquility, creating an ideal environment for the week’s activities.

Vanatun hotel in Dilijan

Tucked away in Armenia’s Tavush Province, Dilijan is a charming little town surrounded by lush green hills and rolling forests. It’s a great spot to relax and soak in some old-world charm. Just a short drive from town, you’ll find the Haghartsin Monastery, a cool piece of history dating back to the 10th century. This ancient site, founded by King Ashot III, is set among the trees and features beautifully carved churches and a peaceful refectory. It was a big deal back in the day for learning and culture, and today, it’s a perfect place to explore Armenia’s rich heritage and enjoy the serene scenery.

Haghartsin Monastery, a medieval monastery located in the town of Dilijan

At Haghartsin Monastery, there’s a special tree that’s become a local legend. Known as the “Wishing Tree,” this ancient, gnarled tree stands near the monastery’s entrance and is thought to bring good fortune to those who make a wish while rounding the tree three times. The tradition is deeply rooted in local folklore, where it’s believed that the tree holds a mystical power to grant wishes. Visitors often take a moment to pause and make a heartfelt wish, creating a vibrant display of hopes and dreams. This charming custom adds a touch of magic to the already serene and historic atmosphere of the monastery.

Getting to know to each other, 1st day of the youth exchange

The program was packed with enriching workshops and sessions designed to empower and educate. We explored the concept of sensory theatre, a powerful way for promoting empathy and understanding through immersive experiences. Additionally, we engaged in discussions about leveraging art through upcycling to amplify activism itself, learning innovative strategies for driving change and mobilising communities.

Participant from Bulgaria holding a Sensory Theatre session

One of the other highlights was the focus on sustainable leadership. We delved into practical approaches for leading with environmental and social responsibility, using Sustainable Development Goals and equipping ourselves with the skills needed to make a positive impact in our respective countries.

Participants from Ubuntu Hub presenting their country reality regarding climate issues

Our time in Armenia was not just about workshops and sessions; it was also filled with exciting and culturally enriching activities. We hiked through lush forests and mountains of Dilijan, visited the historic Haghartsin Monastery, and enjoyed an exhilarating biking experience at the Boo Mountain Bike Park. Relaxing at the sauna in Vanadzor offered a refreshing break, allowing us to unwind and connect on a deeper level.

Boo Mountain Park in Vanadzor

Our cultural night was a standout event, where each participant shared their unique traditions, songs and dances, food, and attire. It was a vibrant celebration of diversity that deepened our understanding and appreciation of each other’s cultures. We also visited a souvenir market near Sevan Lake, which offered a glimpse into Armenian craftsmanship and local products.

Participants dancing an Armenian national dance

This program was a profound and transformative experience. I am immensely grateful to have been a part of this incredible journey organised by Planet One and other partner organisations. The combination of stunning scenery, engaging workshops, and interactions with a diverse group of individuals has left an indelible mark on me. It has broadened my perspective, enriched my understanding of global activism, and inspired me to pursue my goals with renewed vigour.

Rob from Ubunifu Hub

In reflecting on this experience, I can confidently say that it has changed my life for the better. The beautiful landscapes of Armenia and the diverse voices of the participants have shown me the power of international collaboration and the beauty of cultural exchange. I look forward to applying the lessons learned and continuing to contribute to the global movement for positive change.

Written by Kutloano Ramotshela, Ubuntu Hub, Johannesburg

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Fostering Climate Resilience Through Inclusive Empowerment

In a world plagued by the ominous impacts of the climate crisis, the urgency to act has never been more palpable. The scorching heatwaves and devastating floods serve as stark reminders of the dire consequences of inaction. Amidst this turmoil, one voice often overlooked is that of people with disabilities.

With over a billion individuals globally, people with disabilities constitute the largest minority group, yet they are disproportionately affected by climate change. The lack of inclusive policies and infrastructure exacerbates their vulnerability, leaving most marginalized and voiceless in the fight against environmental degradation.

Recognizing that climate change is a collective battle, societal equity becomes paramount. Accessibility in public transportation, inclusive infrastructure design, digital inclusion, and equitable employment opportunities are not just moral imperatives but essential components of climate resilience.

Ubunifu Hub has been a pivotal institution, bringing together youth-led groups like Najimudu Empowerment Initiative. On a personal level, Ubunifu Hub has been instrumental in enabling me to hone my skills in public speaking. I’ve had firsthand opportunities to host various events as the emcee, courtesy of the hub, the most recent being the Ubunifu Hub alumni event. My understanding of advocacy has also been enhanced through training and activities such as meetings with state actors. Through networking with members from other groups within the hub, we have continued to encourage and sharpen each other in the pursuit of climate justice.

As Najimudu Empowerment Initiative, the hub has been of immense value. We have received training and hosted numerous events within the hub, including marking International Women’s Day 2024. We have also met various professionals and leaders through the support of the hub, who have helped us build capacity in terms of our organizational structure and strategy to realize our objectives.

Empowering people with disabilities is not just a matter of social justice; it is a strategic imperative in our quest for a sustainable future. As we embrace inclusivity and diversity, we move closer to a world where everyone, regardless of ability, can take part in creating solutions for climate resilience.

As the Director of Strategy, Research, and Innovation at Najimudu Empowerment Initiative, Bill Kaunda is a proponent of disability rights with lived experience as a person with a physical disability. A Greenpeace volunteer and a student doctor at Mount Kenya University, his multifaceted perspective underscores the importance of inclusive climate action.

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COASTBUSTERS 

Every Tuesday in July, a special event unfolds across the breathtaking archipelago near Stockholm. Young people from all over the region come together, united by a shared mission: to protect and preserve the stunning coastal landscapes by picking up trash. This inspiring initiative, supported by the European Union, highlights the importance of environmental and community involvement.

COASTBUSTERS is an EU-funded Solidarity Project and is run by ESC (European Solidarity Corps) volunteers from Fryshuset: Ksusha, Helen, Ignasi, and Danyil.

The initiative aims to tackle the growing issue of coastal pollution, which threatens the beauty and biodiversity of the islands. Each week, volunteers gather at a different location within the archipelago to clean up litter that washes up on the shores. The goal is not only to remove waste but also to raise awareness about the impact of pollution on marine life.

“We wanted to combine our interests and, of course, do something beneficial for both people and the environment. Since we are staying in Stockholm for a year, we also wanted to see more of Sweden and explore its nature,” shares Ksusha, a volunteer from Ukraine.

The day began with a brief orientation session, where volunteers received instructions and safety guidelines. The cleanup activities typically last a few hours, followed by time for refreshments, socializing, and discussing differences in our native languages. After all, we were a group of people from Ukraine, Spain, Italy, Germany, Poland, and Sweden!

Reflecting on the day, one of the participants, Asher from Italy, shared: “It’s really cool to take care of our coast and a nice way to interact with international team, here in Fryshuset. It’s a really good way to get out of the city and spend a day with nature when also doing something for the environment.”

“It was great to see the archipelago and its condition. It is quite well-kept and it was nice to see that the garbage system seems to work well here,” says Alex, one of the participants.

“The main reason is to discover Stockholm and contribute to the community. Today, we observed that there isn’t much trash! Coming from other countries, for instance Spain, where we have a lot of litter on the beaches, this is notable,” explains Helen.

This activity has been an excellent opportunity to meet like-minded peers, learn about environmental conservation, contribute to a worthy cause, and spend quality time with a group of people from different countries!

If you’re inspired to organize a similar initiative in your area, visit the European Solidarity Corps official website for guidance and resources. For more details about this activity, be sure to follow Fryshuset Youth Mobility on Instagram.

Written by Zofia Cyran, an EU volunteer at Momentum

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H2O Heroes: Uniting for Armenia’s Freshwater Future

In 2019, a group of passionate individuals laid the foundation for ECO Group, envisioning a community united by a shared commitment to environmental stewardship. This vision quickly evolved, and by 2020, we extended our reach beyond the confines of school walls, transforming into a dynamic youth-environmental initiative with a mission to make a tangible and positive impact on the world around us. Our goal was simple but ambitious: to foster a generation of environmentally conscious youth who are empowered to lead and inspire change.

One of our most impactful projects is the H2O Heroes Campaign, an environmental initiative dedicated to World Water Day. This campaign is the result of a powerful collaboration between ECO Group, the Alternative Youth Center, and the “Eco Group” youth-environmental NGO. Together, we aim to combat the pollution of Armenia’s freshwater resources and to raise awareness about the importance of environmental conservation.

The H2O Heroes Campaign is a testament to the power of collaboration in addressing environmental challenges. The campaign involved young activists from Vanadzor (the 3rd largest city in Armenia), aged 16-30, who participated in various stages of the project. During the first phase, participants attended capacity-building trainings on topics such as “Freshwater Pollution and Combating It in Armenia” and “How to Make Visual Creative Postcards.” These trainings equipped them with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand and address the pressing issue of freshwater pollution.

One of the highlights of the campaign was a visit to a water treatment plant. Here, participants had the opportunity to see firsthand the stages water goes through before reaching consumers. This experience was eye-opening for many, as it underscored the complexity and importance of maintaining clean water sources.

In the second phase of the project, participants put their newfound knowledge and skills to use by creating informative postcards. These postcards were designed to raise awareness about the issue of freshwater pollution and to encourage others to take action in combating this problem. The creative process was not only educational but also empowering, as participants saw their efforts materialize into tangible advocacy tools.

“This campaign gave me good friends and a deeper understanding of freshwater issues in Armenia,” says participant Angelina Yeganyan. “It motivated me to work towards a green and clean planet. The knowledge I gained and the friendships I formed are invaluable.”

Another participant, Aram, shares, “I loved this program because it taught me about our ecosystem and sustainability. I also learned to use Canva (a platform for creating viaul content with no design experience) confidently, which I can now apply in other areas of my life. This campaign was an amazing learning experience, and I’m grateful for the opportunity.”

The partnership between ECO Group and the Alternative Youth Center for the H2O Heroes Campaign highlights the importance of joint efforts in addressing environmental challenges. By bringing together diverse groups of young people, we are creating a powerful network of environmentally conscious individuals who are equipped to lead the charge in conservation efforts.

“I believe campaigns like these empower and motivate young people to tackle environmental issues creatively,” says Seryan Yenokyan, the President of ECO Group NGO. “The Alternative youth center is a vibrant space where young people can gather, play interesting board games, and brainstorm innovative initiatives. It’s a place filled with youthful, creative energy and a welcoming environment.”

Monika Chilingaryan, the Vice-president of ECO Group NGO, adds, “Alternative has so much warmth and care that you don’t want to leave. It’s a second home for many of us.”

The success of the H2O Heroes Campaign has inspired us to continue our efforts and to expand our reach. We are committed to organizing more environmental campaigns under the umbrella of “Youths4EcoCampaign.” Our aim is to tackle various environmental issues through innovative and collaborative approaches, empowering young people to be the change-makers of tomorrow.

As we look to the future, we remain dedicated to our mission of fostering a generation of environmentally conscious youth. Through continued collaboration and creative initiatives, ECO Group and the Alternative Youth Center are paving the way for a sustainable and greener future. Together, we are not only addressing today’s environmental challenges but also inspiring the leaders of tomorrow to build a better world.

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Bolygó – a Community Space for Youth in Hungary

As a young person, I see and feel every day that we are surrounded by environmental problems, yet I feel that I am alone among the ecological problems that affect everyone. Every difficulty or crisis affecting nature and society can be solved together, by joint action and cooperation, and for this we need communities that explore the roots of the problems from a scientific point of view, and that are open for everyone.

I found Bolygó community space with these thoughts in my head. At Bolygó the answers to the environmental and social problems of the 21st century are sought through the discovery of the root causes of the issues. Here, with the help of recognized specialists in a wide range of sciences, you can get to understand the human-caused environmental and social problems, and with the help of the enthusiastic staff members, you can not only make conscious changes in your everyday life, but you can also act for a better future. For me, Bolygó is an ideal space for action!

I participated in a podcast production training jointly organized by Greenpeace and Bolygó. The purpose of the training was to give young people a voice in environmental protection. The podcast is an excellent genre for exploring and discussing questions and answers, and due to the informal nature of the genre it is possible to talk about an almost inexhaustible range of topics related to environmental protection. Every minute of the training was practice-oriented, and together with the other participants we solved the tasks, which weren’t really tasks, rather we worked for a common goal together, which resulted in an interview and a podcast at the end of the training.

We were able to learn from Hungary’s professionally recognized media personalities in a friendly atmosphere, learning a lot of useful tips. At Bolygó, it was easy to get to know each other and learn the theoretical and practical foundations of podcast making, because in addition to the inspiring space (chill corner and tea making), we found helpful wings with the enthusiastic people working here. I was a little nervous about what to expect about the training, but the nervousness turned into excitement right from the beginning! Joint planning and thinking, good vibes, meaningful breaks and professional technical conditions characterized the two-day training.

We even had the opportunity to express and clash opinions that are usually hidden deeper in the person, which for me was a unique experience. I think that the message and purpose of Bolygó is authentic and future oriented. I think it is one of the best places if you want to do something for the environment and your fellow humans!

Bolygó will open the door for you if you are still sitting in the room of climate anxiety! I wholeheartedly recommend the programs and courses organized by them to all young people!

Written by David Schmidt, a young member of Bolygó, Budapest Hungary

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Open Getar River in Yerevan!

“I’m trying to find myself, and I realized that one of the ways to do that is to understand the place where I live and the issues it faces. Activism around issues of Getar River helped me a lot in this regard,” says Anna Karapetyan.

On April 25th, 2024, visual artist Anna-Lea Kopperi together with the members of the Alternative Youth Center held an environmental art happening titled Open Getar River!. The participants walked along the visible and invisible Getar River, inviting the residents of Yerevan to think about the importance of having a river flowing through their city and drawing their attention to the problems of pollution of the river.

Anna is one of the young people who participated in this project, contributing from organizational work to implementation. She was born and grew up in Yerevan but had not heard about Getar’s problems before. Getar, one of the two rivers flowing through Yerevan, was being polluted and litterred for decades. In the 2000s, instead of cleaning it of sewage and garbage, the government decided to close it in tunnels and cover it with asphalted streets and parking lots. The parts of the river that are still open, are badly polluted. This is an important environmental problem not only for the residents living in the areas adjacent to Getar but for all the citizens of Yerevan.

During the walking action, young people wore cloth hats in the shape of fish and held in their hands fishes made of white cloth. This symbol was chosen as a tribute to the fact that years ago the river was full of fish while now rats dominate its ecosystem. For Anna, walking in masks was the most powerful aspect of the action; it kind of emphasized that it doesn’t matter who we are – what’s important is to raise the issue.

“My parents were born in Yerevan, too, but they did not know about Getar’s issues. By participating in this project, I showed my parents what an important idea I was fighting for. I learned a lot and can better inform my friends and relatives now,” Anna notes. “Anyone living in Yerevan should know about the Getar River, as it is one of the most significant elements of our city. And we need to turn it back to a clean and openly flowing river.”

Written by Alisa Harutyunyan, a young member of Alternative Youth Center in Yerevan, Armenia

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From a Photography Workshop to Exciting Professional Photography Gigs

Hi, my name is Mbali Radebe, and I consider myself a change maker, poet, content creator, radio presenter, and aspiring project manager. 

I joined Ubuntu Hub in September 2022, and the project has had a significant impact on my growth, both in my interpersonal skills and in my career. As an aspiring project manager, I had the opportunity to collaborate with innovative and brilliant minds towards a common goal. I learned more about the importance of environmental care and mutual support, experienced the power of learning by doing, and, most importantly, had the chance to bring my ideas to life.

One of the standout moments during my time at Ubuntu Hub was the photography workshop held at Braamfontein with “We Are,” featuring Lee-Roy Jason, one of South Africa’s top photographers, as one of the speakers. Following this workshop, Lee-Roy Jason welcomed me as a member of his photography team. This led to photography opportunities on major stages, capturing household names in the South African entertainment industry, and securing collaborations with renowned brands.

Another profoundly impactful event at Ubuntu Hub was “Make Something Week,” held in Braamfontein with a surprise trip to Tembisa. This week-long initiative taught me that anything is possible through collaboration, a willingness to learn and teach, and by gathering the right resources. I gained insights into upcycling and the consequences of consumerism. Being part of the team that orchestrated the entire process, from planning to execution, was an enriching experience, and our team spirit remained strong throughout.

Written by Mbali Radebe

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Our Forest, Our Heritage

Dear Environmental Gurus,

What story are you willing to tell in your future? In a world filled with climate anxiety, our feelings, uncertainties, and loss of control are sometimes considered void. It’s easy to feel helpless, but it’s not okay not to care. Growing up as a child, traditional medication was the best cure for minor aches, illnesses, and mental health issues plaguing our communities currently. If not for biodiversity health’s sake, at least let’s do it for humanity. Forest inhabitants deserve shelter that man destroys and exploits without remedy for future generations to come. Here’s a brief account of my journey as a climate justice activist.

Did you know? Every time we open social media, more than half of the world is connected. Television news is bombarded by environmental disasters and our forests are menaced by wildfires, drought, pollution, and invasive species.

Oh, I remember! Growing up in the Grassfields area of Cameroon, in the beautiful, spacious, and evergreen vegetation along the Donga Mantung Plateau, was the best experience of my life. Indigenous people and local communities knew how to deal with hunger, illnesses, and when to plant agricultural products. All this was possible due to the presence of our forest, but today I bleed because these features are fading away.

But here’s the catch: I do remember the forest was the only rich heritage we had. From one generation to the other, they acknowledged its health, food, and security benefits; even the animals rely on it for livelihood. Sadly, I lack words to further explain what we have done and where we have fallen today.

The World Day of Forest brings a lot of nostalgic feelings to many Africans, and I hope even you reading this. Please pause for a minute and reflect deeply. Ask yourself the question: “What have we done to our forest & environment?”

Our actions matter, and we should avoid being eco-paralytic. We do not need a diploma to act. What I do is support organizations working for forest conservation, sensitize my communities on eco-friendly methods, or plant more trees locally.

Even when centuries pass, our works will be remembered. You really just need to care. So, I’m starting with the person in the mirror—that’s you. And as Theodore Roosevelt said, “Nobody cares how much you know until they know how much you care.”

So, do we really care?