Spotlight on young activists

A SERIES of short videos by Women’s Health Loddon Mallee is aimed at amplifying young female voices in conversations about climate change this International Women’s Day.

Climate activists from across the region featured in the series, which premiered on Tuesday to coincide with the global celebration of women.

Twenty-year-old Castlemaine resident Niamh O’Connor participated in the series and said she was inspired by other women to campaign for the climate.

“Watching women in my community… taking a stand… that bravery and courage, that’s why I stepped up and started,” she said.

“Seeing that is something that keeps me going every day in this fight [for the climate]. Seeing other women step up… and knowing that you’re not alone and that everyone around you is helping is incredible to see.”

WHLM CEO Tricia Currie said women’s voices needed to be heard in discussions about climate change.

“Without gender equality today, a sustainable and equal future remains beyond our reach,” she said.

“We need to recognise the strengths and expertise of young women in our region, while fostering their growth and leadership, so they are fully equipped and supported in taking action for our climate.

“To ensure that our local and regional crisis mitigation and planning is meaningful and effective we need to have everyone at the table, including young women, First Nations women, women from migrant and refugee backgrounds, and women with disabilities.”

To watch the video series, visit the Women’s Health Loddon Mallee YouTube channel.