Make the Park Beautiful by Planting Trees
In the Pezzutti Park in Cairns, Queensland, Australia,
WeLoveU members are digging the soil diligently and planting saplings.
With the eager participation of children, young trees have been delicately planted
in the gaps between the larger trees, adding to the park’s beauty.
🌳 How to Plant Saplings 🌳
The members had high hopes that the young trees would thrive, enhancing the beauty of Pezzutti Park, which serves as a resting place for many citizens.
P.S.
On December 10, WeLoveU members in Cairns
planted 200 saplings on the Pezzutti Park within the community.
This activity was a part of the Mom’s Garden Project
and was graciously sponsored by the Cairns Regional Council.
“Earth, Please Don’t Be Ill”
533 children from WeLoveU member families displayed their talents in an environmental
art competition, the 1st Global Children’s Environmental Art Competition
organized by the media company Chosun News Press.
The competition was conducted online from November 1 to 12.
The artworks beautifully encapsulated children’s thoughts and concerns
about the environment and nature. What does the Earth look like
in the eyes of children? Let’s explore in the drawings.
🎨 I Like Fresh and Beautiful Nature 🎨
“The animals welcome us
as we keep the Earth clean.”
“I like a world where owls peacefully
perch and enjoy the beauty of nature.”
“I love forests. I wish forests were
always beautiful and clean.”
“I enjoy watching the beautiful stars in the forest, which are hard to see in the city.”
“A space where city dwellers
can relieve stress.”
“Only fresh nature
can be put in the basket.”
🎨 The Earth Changing With Effort 🎨
“Polar bears are losing their families due to environmental destruction and have nowhere to live. Which Earth do you want to live on, an ill Earth or a happy Earth? I choose the happy Earth!”
“Earth is ill from car exhaust fumes.
Let’s plant more trees
to make a pleasant Earth.”
“Animals and plants on Earth
suffer from environmental pollution.
Let’s start with small actions
to protect the Earth.”
“A preserved environment has life,
while an unpreserved environment has none.”
🎨 Earth Is Ill 🎨
“We must protect the environment
without polluting it.”
“When radioactive waste is dumped into the sea, a two-headed mutant turtle sheds tears.”
“Burning land, air full of smoke, extreme weather like heavy rain, hail, and droughts! Animals and plants are getting sick and disappearing due to climate change.”
“Due to rising temperatures, polar bears,
fish, and trees are disappearing,
and the Earth is gradually vanishing.”
“The monkey longs for the old days
when there were many trees.”
“Let’s embrace Earth, which is sick
from environmental pollution.”
🎨 Take Care of the Environment, and Love Nature 🎨
“Let’s make the world clean with Mother’s love.”
“Let’s beautifully nurture the Earth
we will live together on.”
“This is how we protect the Earth
and keep it clean!”
“We must save the trees that clean the air
so that we can live.”
🎨 Let’s Open the Bright Future Together with a Green Earth! 🎨
On November 26, the award ceremony for the Environmental Art Competition
was held at the K-POP Tower Exhibition Hall within N Seoul Tower.
Among more than 3,500 participants from both domestic and international locations,
a total of 218 children were awarded prizes, including the Environment Minister Award,
Education Minister Award, Seoul Mayor Award, Gold Prize (including awards from
Intl. WeLoveU Foundation), Silver Prize, Bronze Prize, and Honorable Mention.
WeLoveU members’ children also received awards: 1 Gold Prize, 3 Silver Prizes,
14 Bronze Prizes, 20 Honorable Mentions, and 45 participants recognized
with Special Mention awards, totaling 83 recipients. Director Kim Jung-rak
from WeLoveU participated as a presenter for the Gold Prize category,
extending congratulations and encouragement.
“I was extremely happy to hear about winning the Gold Prize. I bought a sketchbook and crayons and completed the drawing in two days. People are using too much plastic, causing the Earth to become hotter. There are holes in the ozone layer as well. There is also a lot of plastic waste flowing into the ocean. I think it is a serious problem. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to think about the environment.”
“Earth is filled with factories. There are many factories near my grandmother’s house, so the air is hazy and bad. The space is also polluted because there is more trash than stars. Thinking that the environment will gradually improve, I drew Earth that is imagining its improvement. From now on, I shouldn’t throw trash anywhere.”
“My child has been very concerned about the environment lately. Perhaps it’s because she and I participate in the WeLoveU’s Clean WORLD Movement together and because she receives environmental education at school. She often remind me of sorting out the recycling thoroughly and avoid using plastic. She even drew a picture about how the Earth will suffer a lot because of ocean garbage, and how we cannot live happily if the Earth is sick. My child was very happy to receive the award.”
“It seems like the children understand why they should draw pictures on this topic since it’s an environmental art competition. I believe it is an educational competition of great value. I was amazed by the children’s great interest in the environment, and I felt that the Earth’s future environment would be much improved. The winning works were selected, purely based on the students’ efforts. The artworks from overseas children, who feel the environment like family, felt very pure. Their sincerity in expressing their feelings about the environment was commendable. Vishmitha, who received the Gold Prize, particularly scored high in this aspect.”
The award-winning works were exhibited for three days following the award
ceremony, highlighting the significance of environmental conservation
as depicted by children’s innocence to the public.
In this year’s competition, the title “Sick Earth” was particularly prevalent
among the entries. It seems like the voices of children saying, “Earth, please don’t be ill!”
are echoing, expressing concern for a planet suffering from environmental issues.
Drawing a world where nature and humanity coexist,
WeLoveU will continue its efforts
to fulfill the wishes of children who dream of a healthy Earth.
Creating a Comfortable Shelter for Neighbors
Kangemi, on the outskirts of Nairobi, has limited green spaces,
making it challenging for residents to find a peaceful place to relax.
Several years ago, with the collective efforts of local authorities and residents,
Kangemi Memorial Recreation Park was established in what was once
a dumping site. However, due to inadequate water supply, the park suffered
from insufficient maintenance, resulting in the drying and dying of grass.
WeLoveU, in consultation with the Westlands Sub-County Government
of Nairobi, decided to turn the park into a comfortable shelter.
They planted trees and grass, and installed a water tank to maintain greenery
and benches for anyone to take a short break.
🌳 Park Beautification 🌳
📅 October 18–31
📅 November 1
📅 November 2
The Westlands Sub-County Government officials, inspired by the dedication
of WeLoveU, have pledged to further beautify the park in the future.
Justus Ambasu Odongo, Customer Service Officer of the Nairobi City County Government
“We’re truly grateful to WeLoveU. Your efforts have accomplished something remarkable and unprecedented. We hope that the positive impact of WeLoveU can extend to other areas in Nairobi. Many families who gathered today said that they would let their children play in this park. This park will undoubtedly provide significant assistance to the local community.”
Justus Ambasu Odongo, Customer Service Officer of the Nairobi City County Government
Brian Moses Lokeni, Vice President of the Community Based Organization [CBO] in Kangemi
“Our organization is responsible for environmental conservation in Kangemi, Westlands. We express our sincere gratitude to Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah for her contribution to creating green spaces in Kangemi. This is a transformative initiative for the local community. Children may even play soccer here. The park will have positive effects on the well-being and health of the residents, setting a good example for other areas in Nairobi without green parks.”
Brian Moses Lokeni, Vice President of the Community Based Organization [CBO] in Kangemi
The members hoped that Kangemi Memorial Recreation Park
would become a tranquil shelter that brings solace to the residents.
More
The beautification for Kangemi Memorial Recreation Park
is part of the WeLoveU’s Mom’s Garden Project.
This initiative involved covering a 1,000 m2 of the park with lush grass,
planting a total of 10 candlenut trees and ferns to create ample shade.
Water tanks and benches were also installed.
WeLoveU Participates in the Interregional Preparatory Meeting for All SIDS in Cabo Verde
Following the Meeting with the President and First Lady of Cabo Verde, WeLoveU Proceeds with Initiatives in Education Support and the Clean World Movement
From August 30 to September 1, the Interregional Preparatory Meeting for all Small Island Developing States [SIDS] was held in Cabo Verde, a small island nation in West Africa, under the auspices of the United Nations. Ahead of the 4th International SIDS Conference scheduled for May 2024, the meeting provided a platform for discussions among the related countries’ president, diplomats, and others on issues such as climate change response and economic matters, fostering solidarity for sustainable development.
The Intl. WeLoveU Foundation (hereinafter referred to as WeLoveU) delegation participated in the aforementioned meeting with the status of a cooperating entity of the United Nations Department of Global Communications [DGC]. The delegation examined the challenges faced by small island nations due to their geographical, environmental, and economic characteristics, and explored practical directions for providing substantial support.
On August 31 and September 1, the delegation had consecutive meetings with President José Maria Neves and the First Lady Débora Katsita Carvalho. They expressed optimism for future collaboration. President Mr. Neves resonated with Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah‘s message, “Now, more than ever, love is needed,” and expressed expectations for WeLoveU activities in Cabo Verde.
On September 1, WeLoveU provided 350 backpacks to the students affiliated with the Maracanã Culture and Sports Association in the capital city of Praia. On September 3, the Clean WORLD Movement was organized at Gamboa Beach to beautify and clean the local environment. First Lady Ms. Carvalho participated in both activities, expressing support for WeLoveU’s endeavors that contribute to the international community.
WeLoveU plans to continue its support, grounded in the love of a mother, to enable sustainable development and the flourishing of unique cultures of small island nations, including Cabo Verde.
Clean WORLD Movement 2023
An environmental commando team has emerged to save Earth,
which is in crisis due to the rapid climate change.
They are WeLoveU members who clean streets, parks, mountains, rivers,
and oceans around the world, bringing cool breeze to the earth full of heat.
In celebration of World Environment Day (June 5),
WeLoveU members conducted 66 cleanups in 20 countries from June to August,
which enabled them to collect over 42 metric tons (46 tons) of garbage.
Through these cleanups, they kept the environment clean, protected the nests of plants
and animals, and reduced carbon emissions caused by environmental pollution.
By doing so, they could contribute to realizing carbon neutrality by 2050.
No Plastic Bag to Collect Garbage, Using a Tumbler to Drink Water!
Members who participated in the Clean WORLD movement collected garbage, using reusable bags and recyclable paper bags. They also brought their own water in a tumbler and drank it. The collected waste was separated and disposed of by type to increase the recycling rate.
Let’s take a look at the work of the WeLoveU members
who were determination not to miss a single piece of garbage.
We Protect Earth!
“We're Happy That We Are Together!”
The Clean WORLD Movement makes participants happy. Not only WeLoveU members but also government and local authority officials of each country welcomed WeLoveU activities, saying that they were happy to participate in the good work of protecting the environment. Qatari government officials expressed their willingness to cooperate, saying they would report the news of the Clean WOLRD Movement to the king.
Kim Jeong-sik, (former) Head of Michuhol-gu, Incheon, Korea
“I got a call from my friend yesterday. He asked me to join him in cleanup that would be held at Silmido Beach. It’s so nice to come to the beach and see nature. Thanks to WeLoveU, I was refreshed. Thank you, WeLoveU members, for doing so many good deeds.”
Kim Jeong-sik, (former) Head of Michuhol-gu, Incheon, Korea
Lee Gap-jun, Head of Saha-gu, Busan, Korea
“All the members of the Intl. WeLoveU Foundation, I sincerely thank you for your various volunteer activities for the environment and our neighbors. Now is the time when we desperately need to take care of each other with a mother’s love. This kind of activities will brighten the future of the earth.”
Lee Gap-jun, Head of Saha-gu, Busan, Korea
Katlego Makgaleng, Tshwane City Councilor, Rep of South Africa
“Our environment must be a beautiful (and safe) place to live. This is possible when we ourselves take care of our own yards, the roads of our neighborhood, and large cities and society. WeLoveU Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah said that we should take the lead in cleaning the environment and put a mother’s love into practice. Thank you (for those encouraging words).”
Katlego Makgaleng, Tshwane City Councilor, Rep of South Africa
“I came to know the power of unity through the Clean WORLD Movement. I felt that if everyone worked together, we could do everything.”
Dili from Doha, Qatar
“I volunteered work today with the thought that it is the responsibility of all of us to protect nature. It was fun to find trash hidden here and there like a treasure hunt.”
Kim Myung-shin from Chuncheon, Korea
“I’m happy to participate in this meaningful volunteer service. Through this activity, I’m determined to be more active in protecting the environment.”
Matias Quezada from Santiago, Chile
“Protecting the earth environment is something that is difficult for an individual to put into practice, even if they have the desire to do so. It feels rewarding and good to participate in cleanup with many people.”
Shin Soon-mi from Ulsan, Korea
“I was very worried that the temperature exceeded 35℃ (95°F) on our cleanup day, but everyone powered it through even though they sweated a lot. Seeing our efforts, passersby too thanked us. I realized that although it is difficult to do it alone, we can be very powerful when we work together.”
Oh Seung-kwon from Osaka, Japan
Cleanup is an expression of our desire to protect the beautiful earth environment.
When we put our thoughts into practice, we can make a big difference.
The more people come together, the greater the change we can make.
Please protect our beautiful earth through the WeLoveU Clean WORLD Movement!
Appointment Ceremony of WeLoveU University Student Environmental Leaders 2023
Green Future of Earth Created by Young Adults
The Intl. WeLoveU Foundation (hereinafter referred to as the WeLoveU), which has made efforts to preserve the environment for the sustainable well-being of future generations, appointed university students from 35 countries as environmental protectors.
On July 12, 9 AM, the “Appointment Ceremony of WeLoveU University Student Environmental Leaders 2023” was held in the WeLoveU Pangyo Chapter, Seongnam, Korea. WeLoveU officials, including Honorary Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah and Chief Director Lee Kang-min, and about 500 university students from overseas as well as Korea attended the event.
Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah encouraged the student environmental leaders by saying, “Now climate change is a global issue. Saving the earth’s environment is the same as saving people living on the earth. When we just stand still, where we stand is just a ground, but when we begin to walk, it becomes a path. We cannot expect any change on the path of protecting the earth’s environment without doing anything, but if we walk this path together and eight billion people, too, walk with us, it will be a great path.” As Chairwoman Zahng Gil-jah inspired to walk this path together, the students gave a big round of applause to express that they were with her.
This appointment ceremony was to train future leaders who can cope with the rapid climate change. The Clean WORLD Movement is an environmental campaign that WeLoveU members around the world regularly practice; the Clean Action Challenge is to reduce carbon emissions and protect the earth through a monthly challenge; and the Mom’s Garden Project is to take care of forests. All these efforts aim to improve human well-being through environmental preservation.
On that day, 167 university students, who had been making efforts for the environment and volunteer services through their clubs in 35 countries, were selected as the WeLoveU university student environmental leaders.
Brandon Ramos (from Franz Tamayo University, Bolivia), who received the letter of appointment, said, “As the president of an environmental club, I regularly clean the campus, plant trees and take care of them. It is amazing and surprising to see university students from all over the world working together as environmental leaders. I will actively encourage my classmates to participate in protecting the earth.” Natalia Mulko (from University of Vienna, Austria) said, “In Austria, environmental cleanup is a paid job, so few people do it voluntarily. WeLoveU is setting a good example. I’m proud and honored to be appointed as an environmental leader representing Austria.”
Yoo Tae-wook (from Kyungbook National University, Korea) said, “Recently, I’ve felt that we have much to do for the environment while collecting plastic waste and garbage in the Keumho River. I’m always moved to see Chairwoman set a good example in a humble manner. Following her example, I’ll help the environment preserved and make change for the earth.”
Beautiful Natural Environment to Enjoy Together
Low hills and wide grasslands. This picturesque scenery is of Ambury Regional Park
in Mangere Bridge, Auckland, New Zealand. Who are the people that look busy
in the park’s wilderness? They are the members from WeLoveU, who are planting trees.
Ambury Regional Park is a well-preserved natural environment, home to numerous wild animals and native plants, and a destination for migratory birds. Walking trails and bicycle paths have been made, so people passing by can enjoy this beautiful nature.
On June 11, WeLoveU members planted trees in this park at the request of Auckland Municipality to make nature more beautiful. A total of 370 people, including WeLoveU members and municipal officers gathered to plant 2,500 trees in the wasteland.
The members’ faces were filled with smiles despite the arduous work of cutting through dry grass, digging hard ground with shovels, and planting seedlings.
Local government officials unanimously praised the members who volunteered joyfully
and hoped that the tree-planting project would continue with WeLoveU.
Aupito William Sio, New Zealand Parliament Member
“Thank you to all the volunteers of WeLoveU. In particular, I would like to praise the leadership of Chairman Zahng Gil-jah, who continues to lead us to do good work by planting trees, cleaning, and protecting the local community as well as the international community. We must do everything we can to protect our one and only world: humanity and our planet.”
Aupito William Sio, New Zealand Parliament Member
From large and small animals and plants to people, nature is where countless living creatures depend on one another. Taking care of and protecting the natural environment is what protects the lives of all of us.
P.S.
WeLoveU planted 2,500 trees of four species, including cabbage palm,
New Zealand flax, and sedge grass, in the Ambury Regional Park.
This event was held as part of the Mom’s Garden Project of WeLoveU, which involves
planting trees to preserve the natural environment and restore the ecosystems.