Fairtrade youth activists have been at the forefront of the fight for climate justice this year. Here are three inspiring examples of young people taking action to shape our planet’s future…
1. They campaigned with creativity
Art, music and the written word are powerful tools in the campaign for change. During Fairtrade Fortnight 2021, young people used creative expression to power-up the campaign for climate justice.
The Fairtrade Youth Exhibition was held to showcase young people’s visions of a better world for farmers and workers around the world, and the planet we all share.
The Exhibition received over 800 entries from young creatives. Their work highlights that we all have the power to make a difference and encourages us to create the world we want to see.
Take a look at the Youth Exhibition Hall entries and get inspired.
The Youth Exhibition Hall will reopen for entries for Fairtrade Fortnight 2022.
2. They stood in solidarity with their global neighbours
Fairtrade activists have challenged boundaries in order to open up conversations about climate justice.
Using the power of technology, young people from all around the world have come together to learn from one another, and discuss the changes needed to address the climate crisis.
Watch a stimulating discussion between Fairtrade Youth Activists Rutuka Patil from India, Deobrah Osei-Mensah from Ghana, Henry Grub and Sophie Griffith from the UK.
3. They sent a powerful message to COP26 decision-makers
In the run-up to the UN Climate Change Conference in Glasgow in November, young people urged politicians to be fair about the climate promises made during COP26.
Their requests took the form of hand-written messages displayed on hand-crafted banana, cocoa and coffee leaves, calling attention to the farmers who are most affected by the climate crisis.
As the number of written messages increased, a ’forest of promises’ began to take root across the country and, with the support of Fairtrade Schools, WWF and partners, thousands of these leaves were hung on a special Tree of Promises, placed right at the centre of the COP26 negotiation area.
Read more about the Forest of Promises activity
I’m asking world leaders to think about farmers when making decisions about the climate crisis.
Anonymous
Listen to young activists ask Fairtrade farmers about their COP26 experiences.
Get involved in the campaign for climate justice
Young people still have the chance to get involved in the journey for climate justice.
Opportunities to learn and campaign will be offered in the Fairtrade Fortnight 2022 Choose the World you Want Festival which runs from 21 February to 6 March 2022.
Find out more about Fairtrade Fortnight in schools.
Parents and teachers
Find out more about Fairtrade School Awards, how to take action in your school and download free Fairtrade Teaching Resources.
Youth aged 16-30
Join the Youth for Fairtrade group.
Universities and Colleges
Sign up to the 2021-2023 Fairtrade University and College Award.