Unpacking the Action Project: A Deep Dive into Social Justice 12

Aside from the typical International Baccalaureate palette that GNS provides, students also have the opportunity to explore the wide range of provincial courses offered at our school. From Fitness and Conditioning to Law Studies, the options are endless! Social Justice 12, in particular, is one of the most popular provincial courses offered at GNS, encouraging students to challenge social injustice through meaningful discussion, research and action.

So, what is the Action Project?

The Action Project is a student-led initiative designed to address a social issue that students feel passionate about. Throughout the semester, students research topics ranging from racial injustice and gender inequality to environmental sustainability and mental health awareness. They then transform their learning into action by creating projects that educate others, raise awareness, support organizations, or directly contribute to positive change within the community.

What makes each project especially impactful is the individuality behind it. Students are encouraged to connect their personal interests, talents and experiences to their chosen issue. Some students organize fundraisers or awareness campaigns, while others create artwork, write poetry, host events, or partner with local organizations. The project challenges students not only to think critically about injustice, but also to recognize their own ability to make a difference.

For instance, as previously featured, Ms. Tassy Davidson, who teaches Social Justice 12, organizes the school’s sandwich-making sessions. Through this initiative, students work together to prepare and donate approximately 1,600 sandwiches to the Our Place Society, an organization that provides food, shelter and support for people in need. This impactful and compassionate class activity has inspired many students to initiate projects of their own, whether by helping others directly or spreading awareness about important issues.

Inspired by these class activities, Nathan Holtum ’26, Tristan Doell ’26, Fergus Chan ’26, Arvin Cheng ’26 and Yamato Ikeda ’26 banded together to make and provide classic PB&J sandwiches for the Our Place Society—demonstrating how a group of friends can come together to create a lasting impact within the community.

Aside from sandwich making, Keirti Pathak ’26 created an informational presentation focused on mental health awareness. Taking the initiative to educate the school community, she addressed common stigmas surrounding mental health during one of GNS’s weekly assemblies in Denford Hall. By opening up conversations about mental well-being, her project encouraged students to think more critically about the importance of empathy, understanding, and support within the community.

For myself, Fiona Huang ’26, I took a more artistic approach by digitally illustrating Maya Angelou’s poem Caged Bird, using art as a way to advocate for racial equality within our own community in Victoria. Through creative expression, the project aimed to spark conversations surrounding systemic inequality and the importance of social awareness.

Ultimately, the Action Project represents far more than a final assignment; it reflects the values of compassion, advocacy, and community engagement that Social Justice 12 strives to cultivate. Whether through volunteering, public speaking, artistic expression, or grassroots initiatives, students are reminded that change often begins with small but meaningful actions. 

Social justice manifests itself everywhere. Instead of waiting for the next protest to happen, be the one to initiate your own Action Project.