Plant-for-the-Planet Academy Durban (South Africa), 23 November 2011

On the 23rd November 2011 a Plant-for-the-Planet Academy was held at the Chatsworth Youth Centre, Durban. The Academy was a great success with 83 children from 15 different schools receiving an empowerment to become official Climate Justice Ambassadors.Over the course of the Academy the children learned about the major issues surrounding the climate crisis from a previously empowered Climate Justice Ambassador. They learned what they could do as part of the Plant-for-the-Planet Children’s Initiative to take action to solve the climate crisis and secure a better future and were also encouraged to develop their own ideas for future initiatives. Maggie Govender, a member of the government, visited the academy in order to explain the children COP17.  Furthermore an employee of „Imagine Durban“presented a map, which shows eco-friendly things for the everyday life around the neighborhood. The children spent time outside planting trees as both a symbolic and practical action to solve the climate crisis. Also included in the event was a workshop where the children could practice and improve their public speaking and presentation skills.

At the conclusion of the event the children were certified as official Climate Justice Ambassadors. With their newly acquired knowledge and skills these Climate Justice Ambassadors are ready to take on any challenge. The children will now be working in and around Durban to spread the word and educate other children and adults about the climate crisis and the need for climate justice. They also have the know-how to organise local planting activities and future Academies. The children have been empowered as part of a global network of Plant-for-the-Planet children. Look out for the active Climate Justice Ambassadors around Durban! While the adults are merely talking about the issues surrounding the climate crisis, the children are taking action! You too can support the Plant-for-the-Planet Campaign to “Stop Talking. Start Planting.” and help the children to fight for a better future.

Pictures can be seen here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/plant-for-the-planet/6394234107/in/set-72157628127143635/lightbox/

Thank you to Deutsche Post DHL and Toyota Financial Services for sponsoring the event.