LIVE-EX Hands-on: A Day with Nature was a practical outdoor learning experience held on 5 August 2025 at Demberere Campsite in Goromonzi, Zimbabwe. The activity brought together participants from the LIVE-EX Cohort 2 to explore environmental protection through direct, hands-on action, reinforcing the idea that climate action can begin anywhere and with anyone.
The day emphasized people-centered learning, showing participants that environmental conservation does not require expert credentials, but curiosity, intention, and community engagement.
Hands-on Learning in Nature
The full-day outdoor experience was hosted by the Zimbabwe Workcamps Association at Demberere Campsite and coordinated by Ratherford Mwaruta. The setting created an open and immersive space where participants could connect directly with nature through action-based learning.
The sessions were facilitated by Ian Mugowa and Agatha Mubaiwa, who guided participants through interactive LIVE-EX modules, including Bringing Soil and Advocacy Together through the Soil4Life Manifesto, Essential Ecosystem Understanding, and Core Knowledge and Skills for Advocacy.
Practical Environmental Activities
Participants took part in practical activities designed to link theory with action. These included producing organic fertilizer using cow dung, dry tree leaves, and molasses, as well as constructing swales for water harvesting. The activities focused on reducing soil erosion, improving soil health, and supporting environmental conservation within the campsite area.
What Changed for Participants?
A major outcome of the day was a clear shift in participants’ mindsets. Many realised that protecting the environment does not require being a professional scientist, but can begin with small, intentional actions taken by individuals and communities.
By the end of the experience, participants reported feeling more confident, empowered, and motivated to apply what they had learned in their own communities, particularly around sustainable food production and climate action.
Challenges and Adaptation
At the beginning of the day, a key challenge was perception. Many participants believed environmental protection was only for experts and had limited prior exposure to hands-on environmental work. This created initial hesitation and self-doubt.
To address this, mentors Ian Mugowa and Agatha Mubaiwa intentionally created a relaxed, inclusive, and supportive learning environment. Practical demonstrations, teamwork, and open discussion encouraged participation without fear of making mistakes. Once participants engaged, hesitation quickly turned into enthusiasm and curiosity.
An Experience Beyond Training
The day at Demberere Campsite was more than a training session. Participants described it as eye-opening, practical, and inspiring. Learning by doing, working with the soil, and collaborating with peers helped connect environmental conservation to everyday life.
The use of simple, locally available materials demonstrated that sustainable practices are realistic and accessible. Today, participants from the LIVE-EX second cohort continue to apply this learning, carrying forward the belief that environmental advocacy starts at home, in gardens, farms, and communities, and that every action, no matter how small, matters.
Read more about Live-EX project HERE.