TIL: Turn It Around Project

Rebecca SE Tan

25 October 2022

Today I came across an interesting project called "Turn It Around" which focuses on climate justice. They are collecting artworks and writing to be presented to educators and world leaders in conferences. Since I don't often see environmental projects targeting Southeast Asian youths, I thought I had to give it a try.

So here goes my feeble attempt at answering their prompts:

1. Let other youth know where you find hope and resilience as you face an

uncertain future. What excites you about the future?

I’m walking through the woods

And I am not alone –

My friend gasps and awes

At bird, tree, and stone

“Ping!” A sudden message

Coming from my phone

Another flood, another fire

The last of a species, all alone

I feel my hands begin to shake

For a child who’s lost their family

My breath shortens, and my world spins

How could this be? How could this be?

But then a steady warm embrace

Relieves me of my groan

For I know that we are not alone –

No, never on our own

* I very rarely write poetry so please forgive this amateur attempt xD

2. Tell leaders why climate education should be included in your learning

today?

Climate education should be the air we breathe – it is necessary for us to navigate the here and now, and the future tomorrow brings. Good education encompasses real-world issues, which cannot skip over the biggest problem (and opportunity) for the generations to come. Climate education also fills important gaps in society – understanding our impact on the environment while highlighting pre-existing inequalities. Empowered with knowledge and equipped with empathy, education drives crucial attitude shifts to let Earth catch her breath.

If you're also a youth in SEA, go submit yours as well!! Wish me luck :D

* not sponsored lMAO