MAKI is a civil initiative for the protection of floodplain forests and biodiversity in Kyrgyzstan.
Founded over 40 years ago as a dacha community, the Maki association has undergone a significant transformation in recent years – from a private gardening area to a self-governing conservation community. Today, its members are purposefully creating a micro-reserve on their territory, based on the principles of minimal intervention, preserving biodiversity, and refusing economic activity that disrupts the natural environment.
As a mentor to students, Dobrosphera organized a series of consultation sessions in Kyrgyzstan focused on eco-cinematic storytelling. These sessions empowered youth to express environmental concerns through creative media. Together, we developed scripts for an “Eco Hub” — a digital and physical space highlighting local stories of climate resilience, traditional ecological knowledge, and sustainable practices. Students explored topics such as water conservation, biodiversity, and cultural heritage, turning them into short film concepts rooted in their communities. By blending creativity with ecological awareness, Dobrosphera helped nurture a new generation of storytellers committed to sustainability and amplifying Kyrgyzstan’s voice in global climate dialogue.
Following the consultation meetings, the team of students, together with Dobrosphera, conducted an on-site shoot in this ecologically significant region of Kyrgyzstan. There, against the backdrop of mountains, rivers, and rural landscapes, they brought their scenarios to life. The shoot was not only a practice, but also a real experience of collective creativity and environmental awareness. Working with local residents and the natural environment, the participants felt the meaning of their stories and the power of visual storytelling more deeply.