I’m excited to share the wonderful experience we had during the LIVE-Ex Mentor Training from October 12 to October 18, 2023. This event was a big step forward for the LIVE-Ex project, bringing together a group of passionate individuals as mentors eager to make a difference in their communities through earth advocacy.
The training kicked off on Saturday, October 12, with everyone arriving and getting settled in. Our hosts SAVWA did a fantastic job of creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. They included fun activities and check-ins to keep everyone engaged and connected throughout the sessions.
On Sunday, October 13, we started by introducing the LIVE-Ex project and the idea of Earth advocacy. The day was filled with icebreakers and group discussions that helped everyone get to know each other better. Participants shared their hopes and concerns, and we explored the LIVE-Ex Handbook together. We learned about the importance of healthy ecosystems, focusing on living soil, water, and how they all work together.
The second day was all about the tools we need for effective advocacy. Participants learned what it takes to be a good mentor and how to support others, whether online or in person. We covered important skills for advocacy, discussed the Soil4Life Manifesto, and talked about how to raise funds for projects. The day wrapped up with practical planning sessions where everyone could brainstorm ideas for real-life initiatives.
On Tuesday, October 15, we took our learning outside the classroom. Participants worked on social media campaigns to address local issues they discovered during an outing. This hands-on experience was invaluable, as it highlighted the role of community knowledge in Earth advocacy and showed how important it is to engage with local communities.
Wednesday, October 16, was special because it was World Food Day. We focused on using online tools for advocacy. Participants practiced using different platforms to manage virtual volunteer efforts and learned how to navigate challenges that come with online engagement. This day really emphasized how important it is to adapt our approaches in today’s digital world.
The final day of training, October 17, was about preparing for the next steps in the LIVE-Ex project. Participants shared their planning ideas and discussed how to make their projects more visible and effective. We ended the day with evaluations and celebrated everyone’s hard work by handing out certificates.
Overall, the LIVE-Ex Mentor Training was more than just a series of lessons; it was a celebration of teamwork, dedication, and a shared vision for making a positive impact on our planet. We believe that the skills and knowledge gained during this training will empower our mentors to lead meaningful initiatives in their communities and for their mentees.
A huge thank you to all the participants, trainers, and the EU delegation who made this training a success. Together, we are taking important steps toward a sustainable future, one mentor at a time. If you want to learn more about the LIVE-Ex project and what’s coming up next, please visit our website or reach out to us. Let’s keep working together for a living earth!
About LIVE-Ex
LIVE-Ex improves digital and soft skills among youth in ten countries through virtual dialogues and community actions. By fostering intercultural understanding and digital inclusion, it ensures access to high-quality virtual exchanges. The project promotes global cooperation for social and climate justice from a decolonial perspective.
Co-funded by the Erasmus+ programme of the European Union, LIVE-Ex is implemented by AJUDE (Mozambique), ASTOVOT (Togo), CCIVS (Coordinating Committee for International Voluntary Service), COFO (Malawi), ICYE (International Cultural Youth Exchange), ICYE Kenya, ICYE Nigeria, SAVWA (South Africa), UPTZ (Tanzania), and ZWA (Zimbabwe).
Nicolaus Novatus Mukasa
Project Manager
LIVE-EX Project – Earth Advocacy Mentorship Programme