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Camp Cool

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The optimistic energy of youth is vital to successful campaigns, especially in such a difficult area as changing transport policies to benefit those not in cars. But how do we recruit young people, get them excited about the issue, and help them develop the skills they need to become successful activists? In Bangladesh, HealthBridge and WBB Trust have launched Camp Cool, a residential training program on transport issues. The first Camp Cool was successfully organized from 1-3 January 2015, bringing together 18 young people to learn some of the basics about transport as well as networking, media, and advocacy. Most of the sessions involved games and other activities; the point is to encourage, not stifle, youthful enthusiasm! The participants also organized a group walk to campaign for priority for pedestrians in transport policy; the demonstration was covered in two newspapers. The next Camp Cool is planned for February, with the plan being to make it an ongoing event…and thus develop a large pool of skilled young activists around the country who can work successfully for better conditions for walking, cycling, and other fuel-free transport. Here’s to the power of youth!