TOTUMA Amplified: Youth, Art, and Science for the Protection of Lake Tota

Introduction

TOTUMA Amplified is a comprehensive conservation and environmental education initiative led by Fundación Montecito in the Lake Tota basin. By combining art, local communication, and scientific exploration, the project empowers rural schools and young people to become active guardians of one of Colombia’s most important wetland ecosystems.

Key Activities and Highlights

Following a rescheduled start on 1 January 2026, the project has already delivered two Totuma Bulletins and four Tota en su Totuma radio programmes, now available on the project’s digital platform. A major highlight was a series of bird illustration workshops held at the Xieti Studio within the Xieti Nature Reserve, where students from Donsiquira, Guáquira, and Tota schools began their journey as “Youth Illustrators.” In addition, on 11 February, students from Guáquira School took part in a scientific exchange visit to the Geological Museum and laboratories at UPTC Sogamoso, strengthening their connection to scientific research and environmental monitoring.

📷 Children from a rural school near Lake Tota participating in a bird illustration workshop at the Xieti Studio.
© Felipe Velasco

📷 A student from a rural school in the Lake Tota basin visiting a laboratory at UPTC Sogamoso.
© Felipe Velasco

Impact and Outcomes

Despite early logistical challenges related to collaboration with the local radio station and the recruitment of youth correspondents, the project team adapted by developing new, high-impact activities. These included organizing educational visits for rural students to a local university and initiating the development of a new educational tool. A special edition of the El Muyso board game is currently in production, with 100 sets focused on “Hidro-Aves Tota” technology to be distributed across rural schools. This adaptive approach ensures that environmental knowledge continues to spread through play, fostering a deeper understanding of wetland conservation and the technologies used to monitor Lake Tota.

Next Steps

In the coming days, schools will receive painting materials to begin creating conservation murals, leading up to the Muyso Festival and the Múcura Prize ceremony on 27 March. The project will conclude on 30 April 2026, leaving behind a strong legacy of youth-led, community-based wetland advocacy.