The results are in: as of June 2022, our new cohort of 24 energetic and passionate changemakers graduated with flying colours from our first Climate Communications Bootcamp!
The fresh-faced online training program was designed by our Climate Conversations team, spearheaded by C4C champion Lisa Whiston, to supercharge our volunteer community, engaging even more Australians to learn to facilitate effective, impactful and evidence-based conversations around climate change.
Meeting its objectives of training 20-40 individuals in climate comms, facilitation skills and community organising over 10 weeks, the program, supported by our friends at Australian Conservation Foundation, concluded its weekly sessions last month. In this short time, participants hosted or facilitated eight Climate Conversations, two Climate CAFEs and 15 Climate Chats, with more on the horizon.
We received applicants from every state and territory, excluding the Northern Territory. Participants came from a highly varied background that included students of science, commerce and psychology, a geologist, teachers, coaches, parents, a social worker, a pattern maker in the fashion industry, and international students.
“Prior to completing the bootcamp I didn't think I was 'green enough' to be credible in supporting action on climate change, I didn't think I had enough knowledge to influence anyone and felt quite powerless to make a difference. The bootcamp changed all that!! The C4C resources, training, amazing group of bootcampers and wonderful supportive staff have made a powerful impact on me both personally and professionally. I feel equipped, supported, confident and I now believe I can make a difference. Thanks so much C4C for the opportunity.”
- Bootcamp graduate, 2022
“It is incredibly powerful to meet regular people who are connected by a common care and concern for our world climate and to learn that no matter where we are in life, we can have an impact even if we don't feel "green enough" or if we're "late to the party".”
- Bootcamp graduate, 2022
In the emergence from Covid lockdowns, 2022 has proved to be a challenging year for drop-out rates across all programs. Though this has impacted goals at times, we are reviewing feedback, problem-solving and adapting our programs where we can to minimise this issue. Looking forward, we’re excited to run the Bootcamp again alongside our myriad programs and events throughout 2022-23.
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