WHY

Climate change and gender issues are closely linked, a connection gaining recognition in discussions on environment and society. Gender inequalities often worsen the impacts of climate change, especially in poorer countries where women face greater vulnerability due to social, economic, and political disparities. For instance, in brick kilns vital for construction, tough environmental conditions exacerbate climate change effects.

WHAT

In response, Chambal Academy introduces The Udaan Fellowship as a climate action initiative. "Udaan," meaning flight, symbolizes empowering young girls and women to soar as storytellers, sharing their climate action experiences.

The five-month fellowship aims to amplify women's voices in the brick kiln industry, fostering climate justice. It centers on gathering stories from individuals connected to brick kilns in Uttar Pradesh's hinterlands, contributing to climate change policy discussions. Through this initiative, 15 young girls and women will become storytellers, offering vital perspectives and solutions.

HOW

Notably, many fellows are first-time mobile phone users. The intervention provides them with essential media literacy and digital storytelling skills and utilizes the power of smartphones to amplify voices from their communities.

Duration

The fellowship will run from January to May 2024 in brick kilns in Uttar Pradesh.