Grade 6 Students Reflect on First Round Square Conference

On February 24, 2023, Round Square students from Grades 6 to 11 went on a day trip to the University of British Columbia for an Environmental and Sustainability Conference—the first of its kind!

The event started with a keynote by Dr. Elin Kesly, author of Hope Matters, followed by two sessions/workshops of the student’s choice. Next a short lunch break, then a final session prior to closing remarks. This was the first conference for most of us students and we all loved it and learned many things about climate change.

One thing that stood out was learning about the good things we have done for our planet and not just the bad. We talked to many people and they all said they enjoyed learning more facts about climate change.

We checked in with some of the Grade 6 Round Square members who attend to get their thoughts on the conference:

How was your time at the conference?

“I enjoyed the freedom and I learned a lot about climate change,” said Caiden ’29. “I can’t wait to do it again next year and encourage more people to come.”

Is this your first conference, how did you feel about it, and what was your favourite part of it?

“This was the first conference I’ve been to,” Bella ’29 explained. “I think it was a fun conference. I am glad I could do it with my friends, it was also very educational. My favourite part of the conference was meeting new people and trying new things. Also, there was a new sense of freedom, walking around the campus and figuring out where we were going by ourselves.”

Any advice for students who want to participate next year?

“I would encourage students to do it next year,” said Khaila ’29. “It was definitely an experience worth doing and you also learn a lot. Also, don’t just go for the fun of missing school and going to Vancouver. Go to try to learn things that you could benefit from.”

Would you do this again? 

“I would definitely do it again,” Kamilah ’29 shared. “I learned a lot from each session and would love to learn more. This was also a great opportunity to learn more about the environment.”