From September 8 – 10, Cari-Bois’ first cohort of youth journalists covered The Cropper Foundation and Journal of CESaRE’s 2023 Gen Z Climate Conference. This latest piece published under Cari-Bois’ I WANT TO BE AN ENVIRONMENTAL REPORTER project was written by Adonai Crosby.
From September 8 – 10, The Cropper Foundation and Journal of CESaRE partnered to host the Caribbean’s first Gen Z Climate Conference.
Over the course of the three-day conference, climate experts with different specialisations presented solutions to a number of climate issues and engaged in discussions on how these solutions can be effectively implemented.
For the conference’s penultimate session, environmental activist, Britney Nurse, and managing director of the Breadfruit Collective, Christine Samwaroo, gave advice on how Gen Z climate activists – or those thinking to become activists – can take a measured approach to activism.
With most Caribbean countries being democracies, they both highlighted the need to hold Governments accountable to keeping to their determined climate goals.
As such, it is important for people to speak up whether it be online or physically.
While people should not feel that activism is restricted to one generation or niche of individuals, those considering to become activists are advised to be sufficiently educated on the matters they are speaking out against and learn their rights under law.
Taking time to craft an accurate message which is supported by human rights arguments can solidify one’s message and raise awareness on the urgency of climate action.
Activists are encouraged to be mindful of their well-being, and guard themselves from suffering a burnout in the process of their activities, given activism can be time and energy consuming.
One way they can achieve this is by taking breaks when needed and employing other self-care methods.
While taking breaks may cause slight delays, it’s important to remember that change often takes time.
But it’s also useful for activists to remember they are not alone in their activism.
As such, it is important for activists to reach out and connect with others to form effective networks.
Creating change will require all hands on deck.
Goal-oriented and dedicated networks of activists can help raise awareness for the solutions needed to create a more sustainable future.
But it’s still important to recognise the change that the efforts of one individual can make.
A common misconception is that activism creates chaos or disorder when attempting to influence change.
However, it’s important to remember that most activists seek to find common ground and work on issues to create solutions. By working to become better versions of themselves and refine their message, activists can continue to create the future we desire.
