Finding a role model
In December 2016 I volunteered at the Help Refugees’ warehouse in Calais with my mother, where I met many real-life activists who were walking examples of how one can proactively take part in movements to create change. Simply seeing how these people lived their lives and how they used their privilege to combat problems was incredibly challenging. It was through connecting with these people on Facebook and joining a community of changemakers that I rallied some friends to go to my first protest with me. Going to the first one got me addicted: the atmosphere, the opportunity to connect with people and take an important stand. It was wonderful. These people taught me about emailing my MP, how to organise people and start my own groups, or where to find existing ones to join.
Finding a supportive community
This point is where social media has come in. Instagram has been a wonderful place to learn about others’ experiences and how to get more involved in activism. Every protest I’ve been to I found out about via social media: it’s an incredible platform with which to rally people.*
Going to a protest for the first time can be a daunting thing, especially when you don’t know anyone else going. Using social media to share that I’m going and asking others to join has been a way I’ve made wonderful friends. Having a community online – and in real life – who are supportive and who care about the same causes I do has been endlessly important when feeling isolated or demotivated. Follow people who inspire and encourage you.
A huge privilege I’ve had in my journey to activism has been being at university: it’s a melting pot of ideas, direct action groups and other activists, along with giving you enough time to explore, listen, learn and act. If you’re reading this as a student, use this time wisely.
*I would recommend following other climate activists to stay in the loop with protests. Also make sure you’re following @extinctionrebellion on Instagram and liking their Facebook page if you’d like to get involved with their work.