Having grown up in a family of true nature lovers, I have always felt somehow connected to the green world, but also responsible for my actions towards the environment. Yes, this strong desire to do something for our planet has been guiding my green steps ever since. I have started participating in online petitioning and campaigning and office- based activities, but I felt that there was still something missing in my actions. I asked myself: ‘Is this really all how you can contribute and fight? Here I realised the missing limb – street campaigning.
My first street campaigning with Greenpeace was a truly insightful and great experience. Full of excitement, expectations but hidden worries I joined the Naboo team in Tower Hill in efforts to get as many petition cards signed as possible as part of a London wide day of WV campaign. Before hitting the streets, our team leader briefed us on the purpose, strategy and goals of our campaigning, which gave me the confidence and support I needed. I got my first, second and third card signed, thinking ‘wow it couldn’t get any easier than this.’ However, my optimism was swept away as I entered a very unproductive phase of campaigning struggling to find the right words to win people’s interest over. Trying to keep my spirit up, I decided to reconsider my strategy and re-word the message I was approaching people with and suddenly it started to work! With the help of our rebel stormtrooper I began to get the responses I wished for - people passionately signing cards and taking dozens of pictures with our mascot. At the end, our hard work was rewarded with small treats to keep us warm and smiling.
What a productive and amazing day! I met very friendly and supportive people all sharing the same vision. It was a real insight into the art of street campaigning, building a connection with the public and gaining their support. I can confidently say it is a new beginning for my passion and involvement with Greenpeace as words don’t count, only action can make a real difference.
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