Zambian Girl Inspires Water Action

Originally appears in the Winter 2012-2013 issue

Teaching about global water issues can be challenging when the enormity of the problems seem insurmountable. For example, today over three billion people live without access to safe water and basic sanitation. But this fact provides an incomplete story because local action and community development are providing positive solutions to millions of people. When we share with students real stories of hope and empowerment, they become engaged from a place of optimism instead of despair. They are more likely to take action when they see that solutions are possible.

One way to engage youth in global water issues is to collect stories from children in developing countries who have lived through challenges such as having contaminated well water or lacking access to a toilet. Through their stories, these kids show not just the problems, but creative solutions that their communities have used to overcome challenges and improve their health and environment.

One such story is about a ten year old girl named Tikho, who lives in Zambia. In April 2010, a Calgary educator  met Tikho and asked her to share her story.  She was happy to oblige. With a digital camera, Tikho began to take photos and video of her daily life, particularly as it related to water, sanitation and hygiene.