Meet Aisha Al Balushi, country coordinator and first Fresker in Oman
Who are you?
I am Aisha Al Balushi from Oman, passionate about sustainability and driving positive change in my community. As an environmental engineer in the consulting industry, I help companies and organizations navigate environmental regulations and implement safer, more sustainable operations. I also enjoy discovering new places, meeting new people, cooking, and running.
When and how did you join Climate Fresk?
I first joined the Climate Fresk workshop online in 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic while volunteering with YES-Europe and completing my master’s in Germany. The experience left a remarkable impression on me, and Climate Fresk stayed on my mind ever since. After returning to Oman in 2022, I noticed that the association and the workshop was largely unknown in the Gulf countries. In May 2023, I decided to retake the workshop and participated in the facilitator training. As the only facilitator in Oman, I conducted my first workshop with a group of friends in June 2023.
Why do you run workshops ?
There are several reasons why I choose to facilitate Climate Fresk. As someone who has studied environmental engineering and sustainability, I’ve noticed that many people from different backgrounds have a limited understanding of climate change and environmental challenges. Even at the local level in Oman, where the impact of climate change is significant, awareness is low. There’s a communication gap between this critical information and the public. I found that Climate Fresk is a highly effective and approachable tool to bridge this gap and help people understand the challenges we face. The workshop also provides a space for participants to share their ideas and identify areas where they can take action, which I find truly empowering. This aspect is often missing when we discuss climate change we tend to focus on general solutions that may seem out of reach, rather than on actions people can take within their households or communities.
What’s your finest moment as a Fresker?
My finest moment as a Fresker is when I witness the « aha » moments when participants begin to grasp the complexity of climate change and how it directly impacts our local environment. Seeing people from different backgrounds come together, share ideas, and identify practical actions they could take within their own spheres is incredibly rewarding. It reinforces my belief in the power of education and collaboration in driving meaningful change.
What has Climate Fresk changed in your life?
Climate Fresk has changed the way I view my work and even personal life. As a facilitator, it has strengthened my commitment to environmental advocacy, inspiring me to share knowledge and lead discussions on important topics within my community. Being part of this global network and interacting with Freskers from different parts of the world has reinforced my belief in the power of collective action to drive meaningful change.
Which action principle inspires you most? Do you have an anecdote to share about it?
Think big and stay humble, I would rephrase it to Think big and Fresk, Fresk, Fresk. My dream is to have Freskers from the 11 governorates in Oman. Although its baby steps but I see big progress and many people are joining the workshops.
What is Climate Fresk in a nutshell?
It’s a tool to connect people and create a sense of community where we work together to achieve a shared goal. We believe in both collective and individual action, as well as collaboration, to address the challenges of climate change.
Why did you choose to become involved in the association as a country coordinator?
I chose to become involved as a country coordinator because there wasn’t one in Oman, and I felt a strong desire to build and grow a community here. I saw the need for greater awareness and action on climate issues in my country, and I wanted to be part of the solution. By taking on this role, I can help foster collaboration, grow the community, support and guide Freskers, and drive meaningful change at a local level. I was once a Fresker and felt a bit lost because there was no coordinator, and I didn’t want other new Freskers to feel the same. So, I decided to step into this role. It’s a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact and bring the Climate Fresk to every corner of Oman.