In our community, there are moments that spark a shared vision, reminding us of the power of coming together. On June 20, 2025, villagers gathered at Nonkhilek Temple for the first community outreach event of the NATURA Project. The event was full of excitement, reflecting the collective hopes and dreams for the Nong Loup Ian wetland. It was a day of joy, creativity, and active participation.  

YOUTHFUL ENERGY, POWERFUL MESSAGES 

Youth volunteers during their performance.

The event itself was a masterclass in engaging a diverse audience. Instead of just speeches, the highlight of the day was a vibrant skit performed by five enthusiastic youth volunteers to highlight local flood issues, potential solutions, and benefits from restoring Nong Loup Ian Wetland. This skit proved to be the most effective way to communicate with the community, as they genuinely enjoyed it and paid close attention to the story. The skit simplified complex concepts into relatable stories that resonated deeply with the audience.  We intentionally linked each character in the skit with recognizable community member roles, making the narrative even more relatable and impactful. 

One volunteer mentioned, “I’m so happy the villagers enjoyed our performance! It was awesome to see them laughing while we got to spread an important message: the Nong Loup Ian wetland is super valuable, not just some wasted space. When the community steps up to protect or restore it, we all win—a better environment and happier people!”. 

ART SPARKS VISION FOR A RESTORED WETLAND  

An illustration made for the front cover of the community flipchart.

As part of the program, villagers gathered to explore the future of Nong Loup Ian through a series of illustrations. These visuals showcased what the wetland could become if it were restored, vibrant, and full of life. More than just an image, they stirred emotions and sparked conversations about what’s possible. 

After reviewing the visuals, one village elder requested a copy of an illustration to hang in his home, hoping it would inspire his grandchildren and continue the vision of a healthy wetland for generations to come. It was a potent reminder of how art can transform environmental concepts into enduring and personal goals.  

COMMUNITY REFLECTIONS AND SHARED STORIES  

A village elder shares his personal story of coping with floods.

In addition, the event provided a platform for attendees to discuss and share what they really think about the project. Deputy Village Chief, Mrs. Oudomphone Xaypanya shared a concern about Nong loup Ian. She recalled a time when the marsh was clean and full of fish, before pollution and waste reduced its biodiversity. 

“I hope this project helps restore and improve the marsh,” she said. 

She also expressed strong support for the initiative, stating that the village leadership is committed to encouraging participation and rallying community members to get involved. 

Meanwhile, Mr. Thanomsub Chanthalath, a resident who has lived in Nonkhilek for many years, spoke about the project’s positive impact. He appreciated the NATURA team’s effort to share knowledge and involve the community in environmental work. 

“This project shows us how to restore Nong Loup Ian and bring back its rich biodiversity,” he said. 

He hopes the wetland will one day become a thriving natural area and even a tourism site for the village. During the Q&A session, villagers asked thoughtful questions about the project. Even though there were prizes to attract participation, we still can see that the real motivation came from genuine curiosity and a desire to be involved. It was clear that the community was not only listening, but they were ready to take action. 

A NEW CHAPTER IN COLLABORATION  

Mr. Khamphonemixay Phommathat, DHUP representative, shares his remarks.

This was the first joint outreach event organized by Department of Housing and Urban Planning (DHUP) in partnership with GGGI Lao PDR. Mr. Khamphonemixay Phommathat, a DHUP representative noted, “This is our first community outreach event with GGGI. We’ve learned a lot and hope to bring similar activities to other project villages.” 

Furthermore, he also noted the strong engagement of participants. The discussions resonated with villagers because topics like flooding and biodiversity loss were directly connected to their daily lives. Moreover, many participants shared memories of how the wetland used to be, and overwhelmingly voiced a desire to see Nong Loup Ian restored. 

LOOKING AHEAD: COMMUNITY-LED CHANGE 

A youth volunteer is helping villagers write their expectations on sticky notes about what they want to see in Nong Loup Ian wetland in the future, then sticking them on a pledge wall.

With more than 97 villagers attending and over 20 making written pledges to support the project, the event in Nonkhilek village wasn’t just well-attended; it set a new standard for future engagement. 

By combining visuals, storytelling, and open dialogue, the event encouraged people to see themselves as caretakers of their natural resources. The NATURA Project is about more than just wetland restoration, but it’s about building a shared sense of responsibility and pride. 

In Nonkhilek village, the vision of a healthy wetland is no longer just an idea. It’s a future the community has embraced—ready to protect, restore, and pass on.