Weaver Spotlight: Sara Nieto

This month, we are spotlighting activist and Weaver, Sara Nieto (She/Her) who is a Youth Activist from Colombia and current fellow in our 2025 Weavership cohort.

‍

Sara Nieto is a biologist and teacher from Bogotá, Colombia. She's passionate about weaving science, art and nature, and she works with her students to reconnect with the natural world through creativity, curiosity and service. 

‍

She believes in the power of community, education and collective action to heal separation. She's focused on nurturing meaningful connections with nature, with others, and with ourselves to inspire younger people to create better futures.

‍

We asked Sara a few questions to hear about her journey as a Weaver and more about her work. Here's what she had to say:

‍

YouthxYouth: What does weaving mean to you? 

‍

Sara: “Weaving has been a very interesting concept that has transformed into a way of seeing the world. Weaving for me is connecting, connecting people, connecting organizations, connecting problems with solutions. I think it is believing that you hold power but also knowing that power only comes alive when it joins with others and it turns into actions.”

‍

YouthxYouth: Why did you apply to the Weavership program? Share your weavership experience so far.

‍

Sara: “I found this program one day while scrolling on Linkedin. I had been feeling like I was in my comfort zone for too long. I'm a teacher in Bogotá, Colombia, and thanks to God, the Universe, or however you want to name it, I’ve been blessed with many comforts. Because of that, I feel a responsibility to do something for those who haven’t had the same opportunities. 

I’m deeply concerned about the growing separation in our society, and I think a lot of people feel the same. But taking action to do something different is not always easy. I know I need connection and the experiences of others to begin and this program seemed perfect for that.”

‍

YouthxYouth: What are you currently working on within your changemaking?

‍

Sara: “In addition to being a teacher, I’m also a biologist. I’ve always had a deep interest in life around me, and in sharing that interest with others. I know for sure that our connection to nature is in our DNA. We need nature, not only as a source of resources, but as a foundation of wellbeing. 

‍

Over the past couple of months, I’ve been working with my students on a program that connects science, nature and art. We use nature journaling as a way to connect with the natural world, with our feelings and curiosity, through art.  My vision is to connect the experiences of different teachers in order to make science a space of real connection to nature and to the communities around us.

I’ve also noticed that anxiety and depression are increasingly common among my students. I believe that connection to nature, along with acts of service are powerful remedies for these challenges. That is why I’m starting a student service project to help them experience the power of their actions and discover all the good they can bring into the world.”

YouthxYouth: What inspires you in your work?

‍

Sara: “I’m really inspired by people who, despite all the challenges they face, still find beauty in life. In this program I’ve met refugees, teachers, lawyers who even in situations of war, scarcity and fear continue working to connect people and bring hope to others. 

I’m also inspired by my students, who live with hope of a better world.“

‍

We can't wait to see where Sara's path leads next as she continues her incredible work in weaving.