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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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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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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? 

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Harnessing Youth Innovation at Ubuntu Hub: Driving Climate Advocacy on Earth Day

As we mark another Earth Day, the urgency of addressing climate change has never been clearer. From rising temperatures to extreme weather events, the impacts of climate change are being felt around the world. In this pivotal moment, it is essential to harness the creativity and innovation of young people to drive climate advocacy and propel meaningful action. In this blog, we will explore the role of youth innovation and creativity at Ubuntu Hub in promoting climate advocacy, and how their fresh perspectives can inspire transformative change.

Young people possess a unique ability to think outside the box, challenge the status quo, and envision a better future. Their fresh creative perspectives, coupled with their proficiency in technology and social media, make them powerful agents of change in the fight against climate change. By harnessing their creativity and innovation through art, we can unlock new solutions to address the complex challenges posed by climate change and accelerate progress towards a more sustainable world.

Art has long been a powerful tool for raising awareness and inspiring action on social and environmental issues. Through visual arts, music, poetry, and other forms of creative expression, young artists at Ubuntu Hub are shining a spotlight on the impacts of climate change and calling for urgent action. Whether it is through powerful murals, thought-provoking poems, or stirring music performances, art can convey the urgency of the climate crisis in ways that resonate deeply with people of all ages.

Moreover, education is key to empowering young people to become effective advocates for climate action. By integrating climate ideologies, sustainability, and environmental justice into Ubuntu Hub programs, we equip youth with the knowledge, skills, and values they need to understand the complexities of climate change and engage in meaningful advocacy efforts. Hands-on learning experiences, training programs, and workshops, and youth-led initiatives are invaluable in nurturing the next generation of climate leaders.

As we celebrate Earth Day and reflect on the state of our planet, let us harness the power of youth innovation and creativity to drive climate advocacy and accelerate progress towards a sustainable future. By empowering young people to use their voices, talents, and ideas to advocate for climate action, we can inspire transformative change and build a more resilient world for generations to come. Together, let us stand with youth around the world and commit to taking bold and decisive action to address the climate crisis.

Happy Earth Day!

By Kutloano Ramotshela

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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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Reclaiming Our Future

A few youths climbed over a fence and pulled up a ladder. The sunbeams hit the blue sky, and the wind was still. One after another, they climbed onto a big oil truck and pulled out a large banner that read, “Oil and fossil fuel are killing current and future generations.”

Olga, a youth climate activist, began her engagement in the newly built movement called “Reclaim the Future.” The purpose behind the movement is to use peaceful civil disobedience and direct action to highlight the urgent triple planetary crisis. Reclaim the Future describes itself as a movement by young people, for young people—a radical community committed to taking care of each other and peacefully standing against the industries that threaten our chances for life: the fossil fuel industries.

The driving force behind Olga’s engagement, as she herself notes, is “Since the situation is so urgent, we need to use all possible tools to prevent a disaster, and I wanted to try to make as much difference as possible.” Reclaim the Future stands out from other climate youth movements in Sweden since we direct our actions primarily at the fossil fuel industry, but also because we have as a foundational pillar to take care of each other.

Many climate justice activists today risk burnout, and therefore, we need to take care not only of the earth but also ourselves. Olga has learned throughout the years that the fight for climate justice is not a short sprint but rather a long marathon—a commitment that requires both sustainability and community. We cannot burn ourselves at both ends as our politicians do by not acting while the earth is covered in flames. We need to rest simply to navigate this crisis, and no one should feel guilty about that—because when one person rests, there are others out there who can take over. Community is central to building resilience for us as a movement and individuals, and it is also a central part of building holistic well-being for all living things, including the earth.

Momentum in Stockholm has enabled us to create just that—a welcoming and safe space for our community to flourish. We have painted banners ahead of actions, made community meals, held workshops about climate justice and wellbeing, played board games, and simply rested. The most valuable contribution that Momentum has provided our movement with is the fact that it’s a space where our activism is not challenged or questioned; rather, it is encouraged and celebrated. 

Olga’s first impression when stepping into Momentum was, “This is a place that exists for us and exists here to support us.” Olga also said that if someone wants to become active, it is nice to have a safe space to introduce them to, like Momentum. You don’t have to do things yourself; there is a community of people welcoming you. We are stronger together, and we also have a lot of fun. Activism is about fighting a lot, but it’s also about enjoying and celebrating the small wins. The only way to keep doing this for as long as it’s needed is by surrounding yourself with people who support each other and are willing to think outside the frames of the current system. Momentum helps us envision another future, where we are not fighting a war against earth and humanity, but rather living in peace.

Hours often pass by when sitting upon the oil tanks, but once again, you are capable of doing that thanks to your community. The fight will need to go on, but we know that it will be worth it in the end. And after actions, we know that we can go back to Momentum, reload our batteries, and breathe out.

Story provided by Momentum, Stockholm, Sweden