Let's Join the #StoryBehindTheMap Competition!

#StoryBehindTheMap Innovative Mapping for Nature-Based Climate Solutions

#StoryBehindTheMap is a participatory mapping competition that invites young people to tell stories about nature, environmental issues, local wisdom, and their experiences through maps. The competition combines Luma technology from Epistem with social narratives to create climate solutions that are real, inclusive, and rooted in local context.

About the Competition

This competition introduces Luma as an accessible participatory mapping tool for academic communities and young practitioners. Participants are encouraged to develop spatial data-based stories that respond to environmental challenges in their own regions.

Objectives

• Introduce the Luma platform to young people.
• Produce 15 in-depth case studies from 3 provinces.
• Engage CoP Karsa Bentala members as mentors and technical judges.

Who Can Join

• Vocational high school students in forestry and D3–S1 university students from all disciplines.
• Individuals or teams of up to 3 members.
• Participants from East Nusa Tenggara, South Sulawesi, or South Sumatra.

Registration Requirements

1. Complete the registration form.
2. Appoint one team leader if applying as a group.
3. The study location must match the province of the participant’s institution.
4. Participate in all competition activities.
5. Ensure the originality of the work and agree to publication of the mapping results.
6. Follow Instagram @karsa_bentala.

Competition Stages

Stage 1 – Provincial Selection
Participants submit a 200-word idea with a photo and are evaluated based on storytelling, originality, issue relevance, basic understanding of Luma, and a 2–3 slide social media post.

Stage 2 – National Final
Finalists write a 750-word popular article and are judged on storytelling quality, technical accuracy, presentation, and potential impact.

Key Dates

• South Sumatra registration: 20–28 August 2026
• Stage 1 submission: 1–15 September 2026
• Stage 1 judging: 16–23 September 2026
• Finalist announcement: 25 September 2026
• Stage 2 period: 29 September–28 October 2026
• Final presentation and judging: 29 October–5 November 2026
• Winner announcement: November 2026

Contact

Instagram: @karsa_bentala
Email: [email protected]
Website: epistem.io

Full evaluation criteria and the complete timeline can be found in the downloadable document.