Emirates Nature–WWF Launches “Sprint for Change” Summer Series to Mobilize Environmental Action in the UAE
Abu Dhabi, The Gulf Observer: Environmental NGO Emirates Nature–WWF has unveiled “Sprint for Change,” a dynamic new summer series aimed at galvanizing environmental awareness and action across the UAE. Launched under the NGO’s flagship Leaders of Change programme, the initiative aligns with the UAE’s Year of Community, and seeks to turn inspiration into tangible impact through engaging, educational, and hands-on experiences.
Designed for individuals, families, youth, and professionals, the series offers a blend of expert-led online workshops, immersive field visits, and community impact challenges, tackling the pressing issues of climate change, plastic pollution, and biodiversity loss.
A Launchpad for Eco-Action
Arabella Willing, Head of Conservation Outreach and Citizen Science at Emirates Nature–WWF, emphasized the programme’s inclusive spirit:
“Real impact starts with people. Whether someone is well-established in their sustainability journey or newly inspired by the Year of Community, Sprint for Change provides a powerful gateway to environmental action.”
New offerings this year include a Herbarium workshop, citizen science projects that can be done independently from home, and practical conservation activities such as monitoring native saplings and conducting waste audits. These experiences equip participants with real-world skills and prepare them for more in-depth involvement in future Leaders of Change seasons.
Conservation Through Storytelling
A key highlight of Sprint for Change is the online premiere of “Conservation Diaries”, a visually captivating mini-documentary series that showcases UAE’s local ecosystems and behind-the-scenes conservation work. Each screening will be followed by a live Q&A with the filmmakers and field experts, deepening engagement and understanding.
Building a Movement of Changemakers
Now in its third year, the Leaders of Change programme has already empowered thousands of citizens, guiding them from curiosity to environmental leadership. With the launch of the Leaders of Change Community Advisory Committee, active contributors (those clocking in more than 24 volunteer hours) can now play a direct role in shaping the programme’s future.
“Together, this community has the power to create ripples of lasting impact — inspiring more people to begin their sustainability journey, or take it to the next level,” Willing noted.
Whether through hands-on workshops, citizen science, or film-based storytelling, Sprint for Change is designed to be a fun, accessible, and deeply meaningful entry point into environmental stewardship — empowering every resident of the UAE to lead the change for nature and climate.
