For three transformative days, 30 young people from six schools, all members of the Inspiration Hub, gathered for the second edition of the Domeka Youth Camp organized by Spring Communities with the support of KIYO and YOUCA.

The camp served as a dynamic platform for learning, leadership, and action, equipping young participants with practical knowledge on environmental sustainability, civic engagement, and entrepreneurship. More importantly, it inspired them to become active agents of change within their communities.

The first day of the camp focused on understanding the circular economy and the urgent challenge of waste management in Burundi. Guided by environmental expert and Executive Director of LVIA (Association Internationale Volontaires Laïcs) Antoine de Kerven, participants explored the environmental and social impacts of poor waste management practices and discussed tangible, community-driven solutions.

Through interactive discussions and collaborative activities, the youth learned how circular economy principles such as reducing waste, reusing materials, recycling, and composting can contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable future. The sessions encouraged participants to rethink their daily habits and recognize their individual responsibility in protecting the environment.

The training did not only provide theoretical knowledge; it transformed the participants’ perspective, empowering them to see themselves as leaders capable of driving positive environmental change in Burundi.

Day two of the Domeka Youth Camp moved beyond the classroom and into the community with the “Zero Plastic Waste in the Streets” caravan organized in Buterere. Led by Spring Communities in partnership with KIYO and YOUCA, the awareness campaign reached more than 2,000 people with a simple but powerful message:

“Refuse, reduce, reuse, recycle, compost.”

The caravan mobilized young people to engage directly with community members, raising awareness about the dangers of plastic pollution and encouraging responsible waste management practices. Through public outreach, discussions, and visible community engagement, participants experienced firsthand how advocacy and collective action can influence behavior change.

The initiative reflected the shared commitment of Spring Communities, KIYO, and YOUCA to building environmentally conscious communities and promoting citizen responsibility in addressing plastic waste challenges.

Also on day two, participants took part in an engaging workshop examining the relationship between democracy and environmental protection. The session was facilitated by consultant Héritier MUZUNGU, who guided participants through interactive discussions on civic participation, accountability, and environmental governance.

The workshop encouraged young people to understand that environmental protection is not only a scientific or technical issue, but also a democratic responsibility. Participants reflected on how active citizenship, community participation, and responsible leadership are essential in creating sustainable societies.

By connecting environmental action with democratic values, the session empowered youth to recognize their voice and their role in shaping policies and decisions that affect their future.

The third day of the camp offered one of the most memorable experiences of the program: a visit to the SpringEco factory, a pioneering initiative transforming plastic waste into the first-ever pens made in Burundi.

During the visit, participants explored the entire recycling and production chain, from collecting and processing plastic waste to manufacturing functional pens. The youth actively participated in the learning process, gaining hands-on exposure to large-scale recycling operations and sustainable production methods.

Beyond the technical experience, the visit became a powerful source of inspiration. Participants listened to the entrepreneurial journey of SpringEco and learned about the determination, challenges, and innovation that fueled its success.

Through conversations with Managing Director Arclaine Hashimwiyaturagiye and team member Misago Jean, the young participants were encouraged to believe in their ideas, embrace innovation, and take bold steps toward creating meaningful impact in their communities.

The experience demonstrated that environmental sustainability and entrepreneurship can work hand in hand to build practical solutions for societal challenges.

Celebrating Growth, Commitment, and New Beginnings

The final day of the Domeka Youth Camp concluded with a powerful celebration of growth, resilience, and achievement. After three intensive days of learning and transformation, participants were recognized for their dedication and active participation throughout the program.

One of the major highlights of the closing ceremony was the distribution of certificates to all participants who successfully completed the full three-day experience. Each certificate symbolized more than attendance; it represented commitment to personal growth, leadership, and community impact.

Participants were also inspired by a motivational address from Hugues Hardy Ruremesha, founder and Executive Director of Spring Communities. In his speech, he encouraged the youth to take initiative, start with small actions, and remain consistent in pursuing their goals despite challenges.

His powerful message, “your future self will thank you,” resonated deeply with participants and served as a reminder that meaningful change begins with courage, persistence, and vision.

As the second edition of Domeka Youth Camp came to an end, it was evident that the journey had only just begun. The camp planted seeds of innovation, responsibility, and leadership in a generation of young people ready to shape a cleaner, more sustainable, and more hopeful future for Burundi.