CMIL is excited to announce the launch of a new digital platform dedicated to climate action. This initiative focuses on empowering young climate activists with a series of training programs aimed at teaching them mobile photography techniques for responsible climate action.

The primary goal of this initiative is to equip and empower young climate champions to raise awareness through mobile photography. It specifically highlights the impact of climate change on women and children, with a particular focus on rural areas of Sri Lanka. These vulnerable groups often face the harshest consequences of climate-related challenges. By emphasizing these perspectives, the initiative aims to address the longstanding gender disparity in climate reporting.

This initiative serves as a vital platform for young people to visually document the climate-induced struggles experienced by women and children. Through powerful imagery, it seeks to foster empathy, understanding, and much-needed attention to their plight. Ultimately, this initiative aims to catalyze broader awareness, advocate for policy reform, and promote community-driven adaptation strategies that prioritize the needs of the most affected, aligning with the ‘Promoting Rights and Inclusion for Marginalized Communities’ thematic focus area.

Additionally, the ‘Capture’ initiative continues to champion women’s rights while highlighting the critical intersection of climate justice. It amplifies voices and encourages informed action.

By amplifying the voices of women and children in rural areas, this initiative sheds light on their unique experiences and challenges in the face of climate change. Through mobile photography, these climate champions can capture and share powerful visual narratives with the potential to inspire action and influence policy changes at local and national levels.

The program will engage young climate enthusiasts and journalists, with a specific target of 60 participants from North and Trincomalee, including men and women aged 18–40. There is a special emphasis on individuals originating from or residing in Jaffna, Kilinochchi, Mullaitivu, Mannar, Vavuniya, or Trincomalee who have a keen interest in photography and a strong desire to embark on this exceptional journey. The seminars will provide participants with hands-on training in mobile journalism techniques, encompassing photography, video production, and storytelling.

Furthermore, this program aims to empower women and children in rural areas by providing them with a platform to share their stories and experiences through the powerful medium of mobile photography.

Towards the end of the program, CMIL plans to create a digital platform where young climate champions can express their concerns and dissent through short videos, pictures, and articles.