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Youth from the Net Program Discuss Climate Change and Mental Health on the Road to COP30

Climate change is part of our daily lives and affects us all, including young people like Maria, a participant in the Net Program through Pró-Saber. She shares her concerns about the flooding caused by heavy rains in her neighborhood. "One thing I struggle with a lot is the floods because the streets near my house are not well maintained and end up completely underwater," she explains.

And the cause of it all? She has a clear answer: "If I had to explain it to a friend, I would say it’s human intervention in our own space," Maria defines.

Why is it important to involve children and teenagers in this discussion? First, because data shows that they are among the most affected by climate change, especially children in the Global South. "They have the right to talk about what impacts them and even propose solutions, as they are incredibly creative and innovative, with much to contribute," shares Laís, co-founder of Vaga Lume.

To deepen the discussion, Vaga Lume invited Mariana, PhD and MSc in Sciences (IB-USP) specializing in Bioanthropology, to speak with the youth. "Naming things is important so they understand what they are feeling and experiencing. Why am I living through this flood? What are its causes? What should I fight for when I have the opportunity and voice?" she reflects.

Alongside climate discussions, the event also welcomed Maíra Terra, a specialist in adolescent mental health, to address the concerns raised by the topic. She emphasized the importance of self-care as a foundation for environmental care. "We tell them to take care of the environment, their families, their gardens, and they forget to take care of themselves. It’s crucial that they care for themselves first so they can then take care of the environment and everyone else," she highlights.

A Gathering of Hope

Volunteers from Grupo UOL (in yellow) supported the event’s production. The atmosphere was one of hope. Teenagers from eight schools and social organizations in São Paulo reflected together on the climate crisis and proposed solutions. You can watch the special video we prepared about the event at the link.

About the Net Program

The event featured youth from the Net Program based in São Paulo, who, over the course of a year, exchange letters, experiences, and dreams with young people from communities with Vaga Lume libraries. With the theme "Us and Our Environment," the exchange program brings young people closer to environmental discussions and strengthens their role as agents of socio-environmental transformation.

Links:

• Watch the special video we prepared about the event