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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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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? 

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Earth Matters: Why We Need to Take Action Against Climate Change

Pollution, climate change, and injustices are all pressing issues that our planet faces today. These problems not only affect the environment but also have severe consequences for human health and well-being. As inhabitants of this planet, it is our responsibility to take action and address these challenges before it’s too late.

The Earth is a beautiful and diverse planet that has been home to millions of species for billions of years. However, in the recent past, human activities have caused significant damage to the environment. The constant exploitation of natural resources, excessive use of fossil fuels, and improper waste management have all contributed to pollution and climate change.

Pollution is the contamination of our air, water, and soil by harmful substances. It comes in various forms, from plastic waste littering our oceans to toxic chemicals released from factories and vehicles. The impact of pollution is widespread, affecting not only the environment but also human health. The World Health Organization estimates that around 7 million people die prematurely each year due to air pollution alone.

Climate change, on the other hand, refers to the long-term changes in temperature, weather patterns, and sea levels caused by greenhouse gas emissions. The burning of fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and gas releases these gases into the atmosphere, trapping heat and causing the Earth’s temperature to rise. This increase in temperature leads to extreme weather events like hurricanes, droughts, and floods, disrupting ecosystems and endangering human lives.

In addition to pollution and climate change, there are also numerous injustices happening on our planet. These injustices include environmental racism, where marginalized communities are disproportionately affected by pollution and environmental hazards due to their socioeconomic status. There is also the issue of environmental colonialism, where developed countries exploit the resources of developing countries without considering the impact on their environment or the well-being of the local communities.

So why does Earth matter? The answer is simple: because our planet is our only home, and we need to take care of it for ourselves and future generations. We cannot continue to ignore the consequences of our actions and turn a blind eye to the damage being done to our environment. We must take action now to address these issues and make a positive impact on our planet.

Taking action against pollution, climate change, and injustices on our planet may seem like a daunting task, but there are many ways that we can all contribute to making a difference. Here are some simple steps that we can take:

1. Reduce, reuse, recycle: The first step towards reducing pollution is to reduce the amount of waste we produce. By practicing the 3Rs – reduce, reuse, recycle – we can decrease the amount of garbage that ends up in landfills and pollutes our environment.

2. Conserve energy: We can all play a part in reducing our carbon footprint by conserving energy. This includes turning off lights and electronics when not in use, using public transportation or carpooling, and opting for renewable energy sources like solar or wind power.

3. Support sustainable practices: When making purchases, choose products from companies that prioritize sustainability and ethical practices. This will help reduce the demand for products that harm the environment and support businesses that are actively trying to make a positive impact.

4. Educate yourself and others: Knowledge is power, and by educating ourselves and others about pollution, climate change, and injustices on our planet, we can raise awareness and inspire action.

5. Advocate for change: Use your voice to speak up for the environment. Write to your local representatives or participate in peaceful protests to demand action against pollution and climate change. By coming together as a community, we can make a stronger impact.

It’s not just individuals who need to take action; governments and corporations also have a crucial role to play in protecting our planet. We need policies and regulations that promote sustainable practices, reduce emissions, and hold polluters accountable for their actions. We also need corporations to take responsibility for their impact on the environment and work towards more sustainable and ethical practices.

We are already seeing the effects of our actions on our planet. The rise in global temperatures, the increase in extreme weather events, and the decline of biodiversity are all signs that we need to act now. If we continue on our current path, the consequences will be irreversible and devastating.

By taking action now, we can still make a positive impact on our planet. We can work towards a future where clean air, clean water, and a healthy environment are accessible to all. We can create a more equitable and just society where everyone has equal access to environmental resources and protection.

In conclusion, Earth matters because it is our home, and we have a responsibility to take care of it. Pollution, climate change, and injustices are critical issues that we cannot afford to ignore any longer. It’s time for us to step up and make a positive change for our planet. Let’s come together, educate ourselves and others, and take action towards a more sustainable and just future for all. Our Earth matters; let’s make sure we treat it that way.

By DA CONCESAO CUMAIO also known as (jaysteeze thelazy.poet)

All photos belong to Ubuntu Hub, taken during their Earth Week 2024 activities

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Planet vs Plastics: Earth Day 2024

Why do we need to talk about plastics?

Plastics pervades our existence! From habitats to bodies, driven by profit, disproportionately impacting poor nations through waste colonialism. Plastic production is in fact a human rights violation since the people and the most marginalized communities who have contributed the least to the escalating planetary crisis are affected the most.

Did you know that over 99% of plastics are made of fossil fuels? Petrochemical companies promote plastics as cheap, but their true cost includes biodiversity loss, human health risks, and climate impact.

The United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) has started to negotiate on a legally binding plastic treaty that will include the whole life-cycle of plastic. However we demand that this treaty involves the most marginalized communities in the decision making process, to ensure that their health and safety are prioritized over plastic pollution.

So the simple answer to why we need to talk about plastic is: it can never be a part of a sustainable and just development. Companies try to greenwash by stating that plastic and planetary wellbeing can be combined – but that couldn’t be further from the truth.

We demand policies that prioritize the health and safety of communities and wellbeing of the planet and future generations over the profit of petrochemical companies.

Support the planet in the battle against plastics by signing this petition for a strong Global Plastics Treaty!

And – go out on the streets and organize yourself because we are the change!

Video created by Planet One Youth

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Long-term ESC volunteering in Planet One

ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION

Join us at Planet One, a vibrant community for the global youth movement striving for climate justice. Our makerspaces foster hands-on learning and activism for a sustainable future and operate in six countries: Hungary, South Africa, Kenya, Sweden, Cameroon, and Armenia, empowering the next generation to become catalysts for change. As part of our collaborative effort between Fryshuset and Greenpeace, you can bring your own creativity and contribute to our ongoing projects, amplifying youth voices worldwide. Together, let’s shape a greener, more equitable planet!

The volunteer will be part of the global team of Planet One and will be based at Fryshuset in Stockholm, Sweden. The main responsibility will be to support with editing, graphic design and, if possible, also illustrations, both for social media content and for an online handbook that will be developed during the year.

ACCOMMODATION, FOOD AND TRANSPORT ARRANGEMENTS

All costs are covered by the European Solidarity Corps program, including travel costs to Stockholm, Sweden. Accommodation will be provided by Fryshuset and pocket money to cover food, local transportation, etc., will be transferred monthly to the bank account of the volunteer.

TRAINING DURING THE ACTIVITY

Volunteers will receive two trainings organized by the Swedish National Agency: on-arrival and mid-term training. Additional trainings organized by Planet One or Fryshuset may be available.

PARTICIPANT PROFILE

We are seeking a volunteer (between 18-30 years old) with a passion for climate action and a drive for change, who possesses a range of creative skills and digital expertise to contribute to our team. We prefer candidates who have: Knowledge in graphic design, particularly with Adobe programs such as Photoshop and InDesign Experience of making illustrations Experience of video and photo editing If possible, knowledge of WordPress Additionally, familiarity with social media platforms such as YouTube and TikTok would be advantageous. You are encouraged to submit a portfolio.

ACTIVITY DATES

 A total of 52 week(s) during the period 22/04/2024 to 21/04/2025


ACTIVITY LOCATION

 Mårtensdalsgatan 6, 120 30 Stockholm Sweden


LOOKING FOR PARTICIPANTS FROM

Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Germany, Denmark, Estonia, Greece, Spain, Finland, France, Croatia, Hungary, Italy, Lithuania, Latvia, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Sweden, Slovenia, Slovakia


ACTIVITY TOPICS

 Citizenship and democratic participation

 Environment and natural protection

 Creativity and culture


DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS

 Application deadline: 22/04/2024

APPLY HERE!

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MAKE SMTHNG: A Tool to Achieve Zero Waste

Each generation has the duty to take positive action to address existing challenges. Mother Earth is suffering from biodiversity loss, plastic pollution, air and water pollution, soil degradation, deforestation, as well as an increased production of waste. Unfortunately, not everyone across the globe faces these problems equally. Among the sustainable proposed solutions, MAKE SMTHNG emerges as a tool to achieve Zero Waste. However, can MAKE SMTHNG work effectively for developing countries?

Mboa Hub with its team during Make SMTHNG Week in November, 2023

MAKE SMTHNG is a worldwide festival where everyone, everywhere repairs, shares, and reuses instead of consuming, as a way to counteract hyper-consumerism. It aims to develop creativity, empower people to reuse more, and encourage conscious consumption. The ultimate idea here is to promote financial stability for those who are extravagant buyers.

In a developing country like Cameroon, few people can afford the luxury of excessive consumption. At this level, MAKE SMTHNG may not seem relevant. However, if the focus is shifted to specific types of waste, such as plastic or organic waste, then MAKE SMTHNG will take on its full meaning, especially as a tool to achieve Zero Waste.

This is exactly what happened at the University of Yaoundé 2- Soa years ago, where I discovered MAKE SMTHNG for the first time under the auspices of Planet One. Together with Greenpeace Africa volunteers, we celebrated MAKE SMTHNG WEEK. Young students and volunteers expressed their innovative skills by creating flower jars, jewelry, drums, decorative arts, and many others. Inspired by this experience, I decided to share these innovative activities with secondary school students through the organization of an inter-school competition, where winners were awarded prizes.

For the celebration of International Zero Waste 2024, I intend to draw inspiration from MAKE SMTHNG tactics to reduce waste production in my community and in Cameroon as a whole, through innovation and education.

Written by Mache Dolorès, Mboa Hub, Yaoundé, Cameroon

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Rising to the Challenge: Women Leading the Fight for Climate Justice

On this International Women’s Day, as we celebrate the achievements and resilience of women worldwide, it is crucial to acknowledge the disproportionate impact of climate change on women and the vital role they play in the fight for climate justice. From the frontlines of environmental degradation to the halls of policymaking, women are leading the charge for a more sustainable and equitable future for all.

Young women of Mboa Hub (our Cameroonian makerspace) during Make SMTHNG Week in Yaoundé, 2023

Think about it: when floods come or crops fail, who’s left picking up the broken pieces? Often, it’s women, juggling the weight of their families’ survival on their shoulders. Women bear the brunt of the effects of climate change, facing increased risks of displacement, food insecurity, and adverse health outcomes. In many communities, women are responsible for securing water, food, and fuel for their families, making them particularly vulnerable to shifts in weather patterns and natural disasters. Moreover, gender inequalities limit women’s access to resources and decision-making power, further exacerbating their vulnerability to climate impacts.

Staff and participant at Bolygó (our Hungarian makerspace) during the re-opening in Budapest, 2023

Empowering women isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s the smart thing to do. It’s a strategic imperative in the fight against climate change. Studies have shown that when women are involved in decision-making processes and have access to resources, they are more likely to prioritize sustainable practices and resilience-building measures. By empowering women to participate fully in climate action, we can unlock their potential as agents of change and accelerate progress towards a more sustainable future.

Macramet workshop with the young girls and members of Alternative (our Armenian makerspace), Yerevan, 2023

At Planet One, we are committed to empowering young women in the fight for climate justice. Through our programs and initiatives, we provide them with the tools, resources, and support they need to become effective leaders and advocates for the environment. From training programs that build technical skills to advocacy campaigns that amplify their voices, we are working to ensure that they have a seat at the table in the global conversation on climate change.

Make SMTHNG Week at Ubunifu Hub (our Kenyan makerspace) in Nairobi, 2023

Our commitment to empowering young women goes beyond our programs and initiatives. It is ingrained in the fabric of our organization, from the leadership team to the local coordinators working on the ground. We celebrate the women who drive our mission forward, from the dedicated women in the global team who play a vital role in shaping our organization’s vision and impact to the passionate local coordinators and youth leads raising awareness in their communities.

The young South African activist at the Ubuntu Hub, our makerspace in Johannesburg, 2023

Reflecting on their impact, Rose Muganda, the local coordinator in Nairobi’s Ubunifu Hub, said, “I would like to extend a special appreciation to our team of young women climate trainers/facilitators in our maker spaces, for guiding and inspiring their peers on the intersection of gender and climate action. Your leadership lights the way for others, proving that mentorship and collaboration are building blocks of an inclusive and sustainable future. Thank you for being role models and catalysts for positive change.”

Rose Muganda, The Local Coordinator of Ubunifu Hub, our Kenyan makerspace in Nairobi, 2023

In addition to our efforts, we also recognize and celebrate the contributions of women climate activists around the world. In Europe, one name that stands out is Greta Thunberg. At just 18 years old, Greta has become a global icon of climate activism, sparking a worldwide movement with her passionate calls for urgent action to address the climate crisis. Greta is not alone. Take Vanessa Nakate, a Ugandan climate activist who, through her organization, the Rise Up Movement, is empowering young people to take action on climate change and advocating for the voices of marginalized communities to be heard in global climate negotiations.

Greta Thunberg during Fridays for Future march, 2023

Perhaps most inspiring are the young female climate activists in our maker spaces who are leading the charge for a better future. Through Planet One, we have had the privilege of working with countless young women who are passionate about making a difference in their communities and beyond. From organizing climate strikes to advocating for policy change, these young women are the driving force behind our collective efforts to combat climate change and create a more just and sustainable world.

“I feel climate justice is strongly connected to womens’ rights and every other discrimination existing in our world. Since everybody wants to reach their goal alone, it’s easy to see others as enemies. But after you realize you can only work together for the better, you will find other unique creatures as well. And after that things like the gender or color of your skin is not going to count.”, says Lili Szabó,  one of the regular attendees at the Hungarian Planet One makerspace in Budapest, Bolygó.

“As a female activist, Mboa Hub has been supportive in facilitating the networking with other female activists in Cameroon. The climate crisis affects women drastically and it is important to highlight their perspective especially on how they cope with the crisis”, says Dolorès Mache, the youth team lead of Mboa Hub in Cameroon.

Sofia Gustafsson, the Project Manager of Planet One in Nairobi, Kenya, 2023

Sofia Gustafsson, the Planet One global project manager, expressed, “I firmly believe in the power of young women to drive meaningful change in our world. It’s a privilege to witness the incredible impact and initiatives that have blossomed within our maker spaces. Seeing the passion and dedication of these young women inspires me every day. I’m excited to see even more young women join the movement and continue to lead us toward a brighter, more sustainable future.”

Anna Olinhejn, Youth Team Lead of Momentum, our Swedish makerspace in Stockholm, 2023

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, let us recommit ourselves to empowering women in the fight for climate justice. Together, we can harness the power of women’s leadership to confront the climate crisis and build a brighter future for generations to come.

Sherie Gakii, Planet One