A 2021 survey by Fenomena revealed that a significant majority of young people (70%) recognize the importance of getting involved in addressing social and environmental issues. When it comes to activism, most youth expressed a preference for joining existing organizations (40%) over starting their own initiatives (3.3%). However, the baseline knowledge of young participants prior to Fenomena’s workshops was notably low—many were unaware of basic safety protocols, such as the emergency number or first aid procedures like stopping bleeding. Through a series of targeted activities, the project successfully enhanced the knowledge and skills of these young individuals, particularly in disaster risk reduction, civil protection, and advocacy, with a strong emphasis on gender equality and environmental sustainability. By the end of the program, participants were better equipped to engage in social activism, contributing to a safer and more informed society.
In preparation for the campaign, Fenomena collaborated with six new associates who played an integral role in the research and design of the campaigns. Through their involvement, these individuals gained valuable hands-on experience in managing social media platforms and conducting research, while also developing essential civic and social competencies crucial for public engagement. This collaboration not only expanded the network of action but also strengthened the capacity for future initiatives. As part of the campaign’s efforts, a new Instagram page, “Klimatizovane,” was launched and will continue to operate beyond the project’s conclusion. Additionally, the Instagram page “AirBenders” has been passed on to new successors and is set to evolve into a long-term ecological platform that will be inherited by future generations of high school students.
The campaign turned out to be a transformative experience for the participants, offering them far more than just technical skills. As they immersed themselves in the work, they not only learned how to conduct research and manage social media, but also discovered the power of persistence and collaboration. Through the campaign, they had the chance to engage directly with their peers and communities, sparking important conversations about environmental issues that matter to them. It was clear that the young participants were not only gaining practical tools for future activism but were also inspired by the impact they could make. By the end of the project, they felt a renewed sense of hope and determination, eager for continued collaboration and looking forward to future efforts to bring about positive environmental change.