Rayhaanah Williams | 2024
As the new year blooms, many young climate activists find themselves carrying the weight of countless battles fought from the previous year—for the planet, for justice, for a sustainable future.
It has been an uphill journey without the mountain’s peak in sight. Climate grief, eco-anxiety, and burnout are familiar companions in our area of work. It’s hard not to feel consumed by the constant stream of urgent headlines, the ever-growing list of climate disasters, and the slow pace of action from influential people in power. But as we breathe in the new year, let’s remember: it’s okay to feel it all.
Whether that looks like exhaustion, hope, or even helplessness, there is no correct or singular emotion that can be pinned to the climate crisis for it is far too complex for that. The good news is that all these emotions mean we care deeply and we can honour them without letting them define us.
We’ve faced storms—both literal and emotional—while still showing up. Each march attended, every petition signed, every difficult conversation sparked was a thread in the vast tapestry of change. Maybe you wrote letters to politicians, organized events, or used your art to raise awareness. Even on the days you felt small, your contributions mattered.
The world may not always acknowledge the effort, but progress isn’t always visible. It’s in the ripples we create through our actions, large or small. So, do not underestimate your efforts for even smallest seeds of change take time to grow.
But activism isn’t just about championing the climate frontlines—it’s also about being. Being present with what we feel. Being honest about our limits. Being kind to ourselves when progress feels slow or plans fail. If we are to sustain ourselves, we must make space for rest, joy, and connection. We are not solitary flames flickering alone; we are part of a growing blaze of resilience fuelled by collective energy. Leaning on each other makes us stronger, not weaker. We don’t have to do everything—we just have to do what we can.
As the year begins, let’s release the self-doubt and make space for reflection and renewal. Let’s refill our hearts with the same determination that fuelled us at the start of our journey, tempered by compassion—for ourselves and for one another. The world still needs us but it also needs us well. So let’s carry forward this gumption, this fire, into the new year while remembering to breathe in and out..