Art is usually our topic for discussion, but today we’ve changed it up to talk about an inspirational young woman.
When you think of 16-year-olds – you think of angst ridden, phone-staring zombies, who are still trying to figure out who they are and what they want to be.
Greta Thunberg does not fit into this stereotype. Taking the world by storm, Greta has taken it upon herself to open the eyes of politicians and world leaders on the topic of climate change.
So, who is she?
The Swedish-born teenager was at school studying climate change and its effects when she realised her calling. After seeing videos and photos of the impact it is having on our earth, she decided she needed to do something about it.
On August 20th 2018, with a handwritten sign that said ‘skolstrejk for klimatet’ (school strike for climate), she placed herself outside the Swedish Parliament building – vowing to stay there until election day. Little did she know how this one small action would snowball.
Now
Fast forward just a few months, and Greta is now being sent all over the world (by train, never planes) to speak in front of key decision makers. Her school strikes have spread across the world, with children from many countries joining her fight to save the earth. If you haven’t heard one of her speeches, we highly recommend you have a listen. They are to the point and refreshing. There’s no padding or fluffiness – just simple straight-talking.
In a world where leaders seem to be doing nothing (don’t get us started on the Brexit fiasco), it is a breath of fresh air – excuse the pun – to finally listen to someone who speaks from the heart.
Before becoming a climate activist
What makes this story special is the fact that while growing up Greta was an incredibly introverted child. She really struggled in social situations, choosing to be alone. Diagnosed with Asperger’s and mild selective mutism, it is incredible that in such a short space of time she has become a beacon of hope.
She openly admits that she struggles to let things go. And when she was introduced to the topic of climate change, at the young age of eight, she couldn’t shake the overwhelming feeling of sadness. This feeling continued to grow as she watched politicians do nothing to address the problem. Instead of letting depression get the better of her, she has chosen to do something. She is acting on her feelings in a positive way, leading to a movement that continues to grow and gain momentum.
Our thoughts
Here at CreativeFolk we think she is amazing and courageous. Whether you believe she is going to make a change or not, you have to admire her. At just 16 she has stood up firmly for her beliefs, and has such determination and conviction that would put most adults to shame.
History is being made by this 16-year-old Swedish girl, which will hopefully result in a better future.
To find out more about Greta Thunberg, we highly recommend visiting the following websites:
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2019/mar/11/greta-thunberg-schoolgirl-climate-change-warrior-some-people-can-let-things-go-i-cant
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VFkQSGyeCWg
https://www.ted.com/speakers/greta_thunberg
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/world-europe-47231271/greta-thunberg-the-swedish-teen-inspiring-climate-strikes
