The Impact-Stories (I-Stories) initiative, implemented in Chikwawa District, Malawi, by Community Focus (COFO), demonstrates how youth-led storytelling can drive climate awareness and action. The project brought together young people to engage in online campaigns, dialogue, and collaborative learning, while building practical skills in climate solution journalism.
Building Youth Skills in Climate Solution Journalism
Through I-Stories, COFO trained 30 young people in climate solution journalism, equipping them with tools to identify climate challenges and communicate local solutions. Participants learned how to pitch stories under the theme “Finding the Hope” and translate complex environmental issues into compelling narratives.
The trained youths went on to develop, edit, and publish climate stories across social media platforms, amplifying local voices and environmental perspectives.
What Changed for Young Participants?
As a result of the project, participants gained valuable knowledge in climate solution journalism and strengthened their confidence as communicators. Many young people became better equipped to identify climate issues within their communities and propose practical solutions.
The initiative also empowered youths to take on the role of climate advocates and storytellers, using digital platforms to raise awareness and inspire action.
Challenges and Learning
One of the key challenges identified during the project was limited knowledge and skills related to social media usage, particularly in understanding audiences and performance metrics. This highlighted the need for continued mentorship and learning around digital engagement.
“Hope is not the belief that everything will be fine, but the conviction that our actions can make a difference.”
Read more about Live-EX project HERE.