Storytelling for Change

This workshop is a chance to get creative, get heard, and make an impact. Through hands-on storytelling, you'll learn how to turn your climate passion into powerful messages that can influence Australia’s climate future. With expert documentary and content mentors guiding the way, you’ll create short videos that bring climate resilience and a clean economy to life.

Your videos will be screened publicly at UTS COP31 Voice for Youth on Friday—so this is your chance to be part of the conversation and drive real change!

2:00 PM - Opening Remarks (20 min) 

Live Speakers:

• Lisa Cliff, Director, Better Futures Australia – purpose of the workshop
• Liz Courtney, international award-winning documentary director - how the workshop will run
• Emily Watkins, Senior Media Advisor, Climate Media Centre - why we need to communicate clearly on climate
• Pre-recorded: Prof. Tim Lenton (UK) – The Importance of Hope in Climate Messaging

Mentors and facilitators:
Kal Glanznig –is one of Australia’s leading youth ocean and climate champions. TEDx speaker and creator of the documentary RISING UP.
Liz Courtney - international film director
Adam Long – documentary director
Laura Wells – social media producer
Stephen Long – Ex-ABC journalist (Catalyst)
Lisa Cliff – Better Futures Australia
Elinor Leek-Johnston – youth film director

Youth Filmmaker – Inspiration & Call to Action Workshop Structure:
2:20 PM - Team Formation & Theme Selection (20 min)
● Participants assigned to small groups, each led by an experienced mentor/table lead (filmmakers, climate communicators, youth leaders).
● Teams choose a core theme for their short film, such as: Future Voices & Australia’s Climate Ambition (1.5°C Policy Alignment0, Community & Business Leaders Creating a Clean Economy, Antarctica & Climate Tipping Points
● Groups map out their message on brown paper boards and sticky notes.
2:40 PM - Storyboarding & Script Development (30 min).
● Facilitators guide teams through crafting compelling narratives.
● Participants develop a beginning, middle, and end structure for their videos.
● Emphasis on storytelling techniques: positive framing, humour, call-to-action messages.
3:10 PM - Filming (1.5 hours)
● Teams split up to film around UTS using mobile phones or available camera gear.
● Participants assign roles: director, camera operator, script supervisor, on-camera talent, editor.
4:40 PM - Editing & Compilation (1 hour)
● Teams return to the Balcony Room to refine their videos.
● Editing stations available (iMovie, Clip Magic, or other accessible software).
● Option to overlay Mission 2025 branded campaign assets and messaging.

5:30 PM - Finish

● Videos submitted!

Videos screened publicly on UTS COP31 Voice for Youth on Friday afternoon.

SEE ALL EVENTS AT FUTURE GENERATIONS DAY HERE.

To see all events happening at Climate Action Week Sydney 2025 CLICK HERE.