The incredible impact that Trash Hero has had is due to the dedication and commitment of our volunteers. They are the movement’s driving force, and their positive attitude and hard work is inspiring
To keep this spirit alight, Trash Hero World holds regular on-site “Family Meetings”, which allow active volunteers inside our major countries of operation to meet and share new knowledge and experiences. In April and May this year, we hosted a one-day event in Switzerland and 3 x three-day residential events in Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand.
“It was great to see the Swiss Trash Hero Family again, share different experiences, learn from each other and spend a great time together.” Fabio, Trash Hero Bern, Switzerland
In Southeast Asia, volunteers got to know each other through small group work and games, mixing serious learning with plenty of fun. The first day was spent introducing the principles of zero waste systems, including the importance of waste separation, debunking false solutions such as incineration and mapping the problem of waste management in a small island community. Of particular interest was the composting workshop: many participants were keen to try this out on their return home.
The focus of the second day was improving community engagement – exploring how the Trash Hero values and consistent approach establishes trust. This can then be built on to create long term change, for example with the kids’ book programme or the water bottle refill network. The workshops covered social media skills to help increase participation in activities and how to provide meaningful education through cleanups.
“Professional speakers and very good material for us to make improvements in our respective chapters”. Jack, Trash Hero Biak, Indonesia
On day three, volunteers were asked to reflect on the new knowledge and skills they had learned and prepare a strategic action plan to take back to their chapters. Together with support from our mentor teams, this will help to guide their activities over the next six months.
With new friendships formed and new energy found, we see the network stronger than ever moving forward. We are thankful to everyone involved in organising the transport, accommodation and food, creating, facilitating and presenting the sessions, and of course to all those who took time off work to join us.
“This Family Meeting is very extraordinary for each of us chapters to motivate each other more” Trash Hero Volunteer, Indonesia
In total 108 participants joined the Family Meetings from 54 chapters
Trash Hero Switzerland Family Meeting
Date: 23 April 2023
Location: Luzern, Switzerland
Participants: 15
Chapters: 6
Trash Hero Indonesia Family Meeting
Date: 5-7 May 2023
Location: Bali, Indonesia
Participants: 67
Chapters: 33
Trash Hero Malaysia Family Meeting
Date: 12-14 May 2023
Location: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Participants: 9
Chapters: 4
Trash Hero Thailand Family Meeting
Date: 19-21 May 2023
Location: Pattani, Thailand
Participants: 24
Chapters: 11
Thank you to CFLI for supporting the event in Thailand
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