Today on Buzz, I'm trading glitz for grit — and trust me, it’s a vibe! Forget red carpets, we’re rolling out eco-mats because the real stars this week are a bunch of fearless, fabulous kids from Ibbagamuwa who are marching to save the planet, literally.

It’s called the “Elephant Free Elephant Walk” — no real elephants, no plastic drama, just puppets, purpose, and a whole lot of power-packed performances. These kids are not just walking, they’re waking us up. 

We’re talking street theatre, TikToks with a cause, zero-waste snacks, and climate realness. So buckle up because the tiniest voices are making the biggest noise, and honestly? The adults could learn a thing or two. Let’s dive into the eco-buzz that’s got everyone talking and marching! 

Q: An Elephant Walk without elephants? Isn’t that a contradiction?
A: Not at all. In fact, it’s the whole point. The Elephant-Free Elephant Walk is a symbolic, creative event where children take the lead in raising awareness about climate change, plastic pollution, and biodiversity loss, without the use of live animals. Instead, they’ll showcase handmade elephant puppets, eco-costumes, and performances that celebrate conservation while promoting cruelty-free cultural expression.

Q: Who’s organising this initiative?
A: The event is led by the children of Athwela Nirmana Kavaya, joined by students from local schools in the Ibbagamuwa Division. It is organised by the Athwela Partnership, comprising The Grassrooted Trust, Devasarana Development Centre, Women’s Development Foundation, and the Nigel Billimoria Elephant Conservation Trust — all dedicated to community-led social and environmental justice.

Q: When and where is the walk taking place?

• Date: Sunday, 10th August 2025
• Start Time: 3:00 PM
• Starting Point: Ibbagamuwa Central College
• Final Stop & Zero-Waste Food Fair: Devasarana Development Centre, Yakalla (from 5:00 PM onwards)

Q: What can we expect on the day?

A: A vibrant, purpose-driven march with:
    •    Giant handmade elephant puppets
    •    Students in elephant masks and eco-costumes
    •    Street theatre performances focusing on the climate crisis
    •    Banners and placards advocating for conservation and sustainability
    •    Mobile video screenings of climate-themed TikToks and short reels
    •    A Zero-Waste Food Fair featuring local vendors from the Athwela Marketplace

Q: Why is the elephant such a central theme?
A: In Sri Lanka, the elephant is a powerful symbol of biodiversity, cultural identity, and ecological balance. Sadly, elephants are increasingly endangered due to habitat destruction, human-wildlife conflict, and climate change. This event uses the image of the elephant — recreated through waste materials — to highlight our collective responsibility in protecting nature without harming it.

Q: What environmental issues are being addressed through this initiative?
A:
    •    Elephant Conservation: Highlighting the need to protect and respect wildlife.
    •    Plastic Pollution: Demonstrating the dangers of single-use plastic to humans and ecosystems.
    •    Waste Management: Encouraging segregation and proper recycling practices at school and community levels.
    •    Climate Emergency: Calling attention to the global climate crisis and the need for urgent action.

Q: Are local schools participating in any special way?
A: Yes, schools are playing a major role. Students will perform street theatre, dance, and art-based expressions as part of a competition. The top six winning schools will receive funding to initiate or strengthen waste segregation projects on their campuses, ensuring the walk leads to tangible, ongoing action.

Q: Is this event only for schools and organisers?
A: Not at all. The event is open to the entire community, with participation from local government authorities, law enforcement, businesses, and residents, all coming together to support youth-led environmental activism.

Q: What’s the core message behind the “Elephant-Free Elephant Walk”?
A: This is more than a symbolic event — it’s a statement. The children of Ibbagamuwa are sending a powerful reminder: our current environmental decisions will shape their future. Through this walk, they are demanding change, accountability, and action — not tomorrow, but today.

Event Summary - 

Date: Sunday, 10th August 2025
Start Time: 3:00 PM
Starting Point: Ibbagamuwa Central College
Conclusion & Food Fair: Devasarana Development Centre, Yakalla (from 5:00 PM)
Organised by: The Athwela Partnership
Marketplace Partner: www.athwelamarket.com
More Info: +94 72 777 7183