In my years as an outdoor environmental educator, I realized that many young people in Nigeria find climate change abstract and disconnected from their daily lives. Schools often rely on rote learning, leaving students without a sense of connection or responsibility toward nature. I wanted to change that by helping children understand environmental issues through stories rooted in their culture and surroundings.
Earthstorytelling Clubs were born from the belief that local stories can heal our relationship with nature and inspire action. I created this innovation to bridge the gap between knowledge and empathy—helping students see that protecting the environment is not just a science lesson, but a story we all share. The Clubs also promote gender inclusivity and give a voice to students with special needs, ensuring every child becomes a storyteller for change.
Earthstorytelling Clubs operate as extracurricular groups in schools, meeting weekly or biweekly. Each session combines storytelling, discussions, outdoor learning, and creative projects. Students write or act out stories that link local experiences—droughts, waste, trees, or water—to global environmental challenges. They also participate in simple outdoor activities such as tree planting, water conservation projects, and school clean-ups inspired by their stories.
The Clubs are facilitated by trained teachers and volunteers who guide students in connecting their cultural heritage with environmental responsibility. Sessions are inclusive, with activities designed to engage both girls and children with special needs. Through these practical, joyful experiences, children develop not only environmental awareness but also confidence, leadership, and empathy.
The innovation began in a few schools in Kano and Kaduna States, Nigeria, and has grown through partnerships, teacher training, and community engagement. Collaboration with organizations like Swarovski Waterschool Foundation, Earth Charter International, and local education authorities has helped expand the reach.
To date, Earthstorytelling Clubs have reached almost 4,853 students between the ages of 9 and 15 across 31 schools, with a gender inclusiveness rate of 47% females. Teachers and environmental educators are now replicating the model in their schools after seeing its positive impact on student behavior, creativity, and environmental awareness. The Clubs’ success stories—from school gardens to students leading environmental campaigns—have attracted attention on social media and in local education networks. By keeping the approach simple, low-cost, and story-driven, Earthstorytelling Clubs are spreading organically across schools and communities.
Over time, we have added creative dimensions to the Clubs, such as the “Untold Stories About Nature” initiative, which brings storytelling events to local communities, and the “Plant a Birthday Tree” campaign, where students celebrate birthdays by planting trees. We also introduced inclusive training for teachers to better support children with disabilities and to encourage equal participation among girls.
These adaptations ensure that the innovation remains dynamic, responsive to local contexts, and aligned with broader goals of environmental justice and social inclusion.
Starting an Earthstorytelling Club is simple and adaptable to any school context. Begin by selecting a small group of interested students and a teacher or volunteer facilitator. Use stories from local culture, folktales, or personal experiences to explore environmental themes such as water, waste, or trees.
Each meeting should include storytelling, discussion, and a small action—like planting, cleaning, or observing nature. You can also connect with our network for simple guides, activity templates, and mentorship support. With just creativity, curiosity, and commitment, any school can bring Earthstorytelling to life and inspire a generation of young environmental storytellers.
