In an effort to establish a cohort of environmentally aware and climate conscious Gen Z multimedia journalists, the Cari-Bois Environmental Network launched its pilot I Want To Be An Environmental Reporter youth journalism project on August 3.
With a focus on developing and harnessing the storytelling skills of young people from rural communities, the project’s eight participants were selected from the following four communities across Trinidad and Tobago; Blanchisseuse, Moruga, Roxborough, and Williamsville.
Throughout August and September, participants will receive a blend of virtual and in-person learning experiences introducing them to the fundamentals of journalism.
The Cropper Foundation’s (TCF) CEO, Omar Mohammed, told Cari-Bois, “This project is important as the younger generation must have a deeper understanding and a voice when it comes to climate related matters.
“As such, it’s important that they not only understand but also have access to platforms – like the media – to amplify their voices, highlight climate related issues in their communities and share knowledge with their peer group.”
The project’s three virtual training sessions will be facilitated by:
- Veteran award-winning journalist, Wesley Gibbings.
- Guardian Media Ltd. award-winning multimedia journalist, Kalain Hosein.
- Advisors Next Door Climate Change and Sustainability Associate Consultant, Ranissa Mathura.
- Cari-Bois Project Coordinator and Editor, Tyrell Gittens.
- Filmmaker and multimedia journalist, Tracy Assing.
Each session will be geared towards honing the basic journalism skills of participants in the areas of research, story development and conducting interviews.
In addition to their online training sessions, participants will also be taken on a field trip to a natural heritage site in Trinidad to educate them about said site and give them the opportunity to conduct interviews with select individuals at the site to hone their interview skills.
As The Cropper Foundation gears up to host its inaugural online Gen Z climate conference – in collaboration with the Journal of CESaRE – in September, Cari-Bois’ project is an extension of the Foundation’s continued efforts to greater include young people in Trinidad and Tobago’s climate matters.
Participants of the project will also have an exclusive opportunity to attend and report on the conference.
Reflecting on the project, TCF Communications Lead, Ardene Sirjoo, said, “The ethos of TCF has always been to promote sustainability, in every sense.
“And so, the idea of nurturing young talent to report on current environmental and existential issues – issues that carry acute implications for future generations – is absolutely core to our mission.”
The pilot project is expected to end with a closing ceremony in early October where participants will receive a certificate of participation and have the opportunity to share their experiences.
