Hey ,

I hope you are doing well and finding yourself (and story ideas) in the midst of inspiration and action! 🥰

This week, in the spirit of International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples, we are turning the spotlight on indigenous communities across Asia and their vital role in confronting climate change. 

🍇 From the ingenious terraced rice paddies to innovative water management systems, indigenous knowledge is shaping climate resilience in our region. These climate warriors are proving that community-driven initiatives hold the key to tackling the global crisis. Let's discover their stories together, shall we? 🚜👀

As diverse as the landscapes of Asia, so are its indigenous cultures and practices. The fascinating blend of age-old traditions with modern approaches, as helmed by indigenous peoples from across the region has resulted in some stellar solutions in the face of climatic uncertainties. 💯

From Bhandup fishermen protecting India's mangroves from vanishing to Ifugao people's sustained efforts in preserving the 2,000 year old rice terraces - Asian indigenous communities are a wellspring of sustainable practices! 🌳

Based in the Northern Mindanao region of the Philippines, this group of Manobo youth is taking on the mantle of leadership - showing us the path to resilient, diversified farming methods that heal both the land and our climate!

👀 Pssst! If you want to be like Prince and ace your storytelling skills, sign up for our #NextGen Climate Bootcamp!

We are collaborating with the US Embassy in Manila to empower, train, and mentor young journalists in the Philippines, where you get to learn hands-on skills on climate journalism and multimedia reporting tools.  

All you have to do is tell us about a great climate story that you have in mind and submit your portfolio. 

👉 Learn more about our #NextGen fellowship and bootcamp.

As we celebrate Asia's rich indigenous heritage and their indomitable spirit, it's important to renew our commitment to collective action. Because not all is rosy-pictured! 

For instance, hydro developments in Philippines's Mindanao are shaking the very existence of its indigenous inhabitants. The Batak tribe is struggling to retain their harvesting livelihood that was destroyed in the 2021 aftermath of Typhoon Rai. 

There are more such stories and community efforts that are yet to be covered in mainstream media - those which unveil the strength of unity, the brilliance of innovation, and the resilience of cultures that have stood the test of time.

At Climate Tracker Asia, we are committed to empowering journalists to tell cover these narratives and amplify the voices and issues that often go unheard. Our #NextGen Climate Bootcamp will train young journalists in climate reporting - from the ABCs to getting stories published in national media! Secure your spot today. 

If you know of a Filipino student or budding journalist who can benefit from this fellowship, do spread the word!  

Until then, stay inspired! 
Aishwaryaa 🧃