From March 17th to 24th, Bern, Switzerland, became the heart of a transformative experience, as 25 passionate youth workers and activists from across the globe gathered for the Eco Stories: Amplifying Environmentalism Training course. The program, part of the Eco-Stories project by Service Civil International (SCI) Switzerland, was designed to equip participants with the knowledge, tools, and practical skills needed to lead impactful climate actions within their local communities.
The Eco-Stories initiative aimed to address the increasing need for youth to enhance their climate activism capabilities. The course focused on environmentalism, advocacy, and effective strategies for driving positive change. Participants hailed from countries including Yemen, Costa Rica, South Africa, Ecuador, and several others, representing a rich diversity of perspectives and experiences. Over the course of a week, the group engaged in a dynamic and interactive learning process, discovering ways to amplify environmentalism and youth engagement through both action and digital storytelling.
A Glimpse into the Training Days
There where a lot of exchange, mutual learning and interactive elements. The first day was a perfect icebreaker, where participants got to know each other, share their thoughts on environmentalism, and open up to new ideas and discussions. As the days progressed, the program became more hands-on, with activities that allowed participants to immerse themselves in the climate conversation while exploring real-world solutions.
Participants also shared their personal concerns about the environment, leading to insightful discussions about sustainable practices and the critical role of individual motivation in driving community-level change. A visit to the Movetia office and presentations about environmental activism provided valuable insights into the mission and the path forward for community-based solutions.
Day four focused on creating effective climate action plans. Participants learned how to structure their projects, including developing clear budget plans and addressing potential challenges. They explored examples of successful global initiatives, gaining insights on what works and how to overcome obstacles in bringing about change. The day concluded with participants creating a short video to communicate their projects effectively.
Impact and Reflections
The Eco Stories training was more than just an educational experience—it was an empowering journey that inspired participants to take meaningful actions in their own communities. The training gave them the tools and confidence to lead climate initiatives, using both traditional environmentalism and the power of digital storytelling to amplify their voices.
On the final days, the energy in the group was palpable as participants reflected on their roles and strengths in driving future change. The atmosphere was filled with hope, trust, and excitement for the future. The success of the first Eco Stories training is a testament to the power of collaboration, education, and youth-led action in shaping a more sustainable future.
Looking Ahead: Upcoming Training
The momentum from the Eco Stories: Amplifying Environmentalism training will continue, with the next exciting opportunity just around the corner. From November 4th to 11th, 2025, SCI Switzerland will host the Digital Eco Stories: Advocate for the Environment Training Course in Bern, Switzerland.
This upcoming course will empower participants to use digital storytelling as a tool for impactful climate advocacy. They will learn how to craft compelling narratives that reflect their causes and highlight ecological and climate challenges in their communities. Participants will gain the skills to amplify their voices, advancing the cause of climate justice on both local and global platforms.
More information coming soon. The training is open to all young people who are committed to climate and environmental justice.
