Hackney school pupils star in climate change film shown to world leaders
The project is a cross-generational collaboration exploring the global climate emergency through the eyes of children. Over five weeks, the pupils developed their understanding of global warming through photography, writing, and drawing.
Malakai Ocherobia, 11, who starred in the film, said: "It was a really good experience. We understood that even a small change can make a big difference."
READ MORE: 14 London schools where climate change is now fed into curriculum as kids count birds and plant food
He admitted filming had its challenges but was ultimately rewarding. He added: "It was difficult to stay quiet while others were filming, but overall it was fun and worth it.'
Samuel Metuge, 10, said the experience helped build his confidence. He said: "At the start, I felt very nervous, but as we kept filming, I got way less nervous; it was a really fulfilling experience!'
Yasmine Bastandji, 10, enjoyed the creative process. She said: "Making art was amazing. Everyone was really nice, and no one shouted at us.'
The film was selected by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction and shown at a UN regional conference in Budva, Montenegro, in November. The children hope their message will inspire action on climate change.
Sofia Machado, 11, said the project opened her eyes to the crisis. She added: "I didn't really know about climate change before the movie. Now I know it's important, and changing our behaviour can help prevent disasters like wildfires."
Yasmine believes more people need to take action. She said: "Climate change is horrible because we're destroying our own planet. Everyone knows about it, but not enough people do anything to help.'
Since working on the film, Yasmine has made changes in her own life. She said: "I cycle to school every day, even in the rain, because it's better for the planet and quicker too.'
The pupils' drawings, inspired by Mendel's Submerged Portraits and Portraits in Ashes , are now on display at the school. Their artwork was also influenced by an exhibition at The Photographers' Gallery.
Headteacher Marc Thompson praised the children's work. He said: "It's really important for children to be aware of climate change. They are the future decision-makers and will live with the impact of choices we make today.'
He added that the project has had a lasting impact on the pupils. He said: "They now have a deeper understanding of climate change. Their voices are being heard in school, and their perspective has shifted in a more profound way.'
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