"Transforma tu mundo" (“Transform your world”)
Colombia | Nadando por el cambio, la paz y nuestros derechos | 2023
Hola!
We are "Nadando por el cambio, la paz y nuestros derechos" (“Swimming for change, peace and our rights”), a group of vibrant young people in Arauca who are passionate about fighting climate change.
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12 - 18 years old
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The Right-Sized Problem
The Villa Pez neighborhood in Arauca continually faces the danger of floods during heavy rains, which turn playgrounds into puddles and homes into islands. The lagoon that nurtures their community has become its biggest threat, all because of plastic waste clogging its paths. And where did these waste come from? Sadly, from people mindlessly throwing trash in the body of water. Flooding has not only caused missed school or play time, but put families in danger–many of whom are migrants from Venezuela.
What did we do?
We focused on caring for our lagoon and managing plastic waste. “Trash for Tote” was our first activity, where we can mobilize community members to join our efforts. They brought plastic trash and exchanged these with tote bags that show off our pretty campaign logo. The plastic was then sent off to a recycling center, giving it new life, far away from the lagoon.
Next, we took everyone on a tour around the lagoon for lessons that they wouldn’t forget. Using megaphones to amplify our voices, we talked about the importance of the lagoon, the dangers of plastic pollution, and how everyone can help keep our neighborhood safe and clean.
Finally, we were able to showcase the talents of young artists in Villa Pez for a good cause. Besides beautiful artworks, the children created the story of ‘Tormento’, a monster who pollutes their lagoon. Tormento didn’t just harm the environment–he has the power to uproot their homes and lives. However, Tormento will not win as ‘Transformundo’, a hero who knows how to deal with pollution, has defeated Tormento, leaving a community where young people and their families can thrive.
Campaign Impact
Our efforts and successes have reached local authorities and community members, who have pledged to do better for the lagoon. These floods are not just a natural occurrence, but a reminder of the harmful effects of climate change and pollution.
One of our biggest wins can be seen in the children of Villa Pez – they do have a voice, a loud one at that, in the fight against climate change. They can demand change from local leaders, and protect their homes and communities too.
This campaign shows us that when we listen to our future leaders, a powerful change can happen that can dictate what happens in the generations to come.
Words from our participant
“BEFORE, I ATE CANDY AND THREW THE WRAP AWAY. NOW, I KEEP IT IN MY POCKET TO THROW IT AWAY LATER IN A BIN.”
