‘The (re)Generation Project,’ a Macquarie University research project supported by the NSW Environmental Trust and partnered with OzGreen, recently launched a new program that puts power into the hands of young people to (re)generate an interest and love for nature through storytelling.

Young storytellers (15-25 years) are invited to share bold, inspiring stories about a human experience with nature through any creative medium such as film, art, creative writing or photography.

Ten story ideas will then be selected by ‘The (re)Generation Project’ to receive editorial and production training, including digital storytelling workshops and a mentor to help craft powerful and impacting digital stories to inspire a new generation to visit and value nature.

“Storytelling is a powerful way humans share values, expand knowledge and spread ways of acting. As a storyteller, you are providing the viewer with the material for them to form their own connection rather than telling them what to do,” says Dr Iqbal Barkat, member of the project and lecturer in Screen Production.

The best digital stories with be shared at a premier event on 26 October. An online campaign will also invite other young people to vote for their favourite story and to explain if/why it inspires them to visit and value nature.

“This is an opportunity for young people to build valuable skills and networks, show their work and win prizes. It’s also a creative and fun opportunity for them to participate in developing a positive change for our relationship with our planet. We hope to explore ways young people in NSW connect with each other, and use this to form new connections with them and their natural world,” says project leader Wendy Goldstein.

Know a young storyteller? Tell them to apply by Sunday 6 September here.