Owen Sound's first youth conference for climate action is set for Thursday, Mar. 2, at the Harmony Centre.
Organizer, and elementary teacher at Georgian Bay Community School, Hilary Coburn shares:
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Owen Sound’s first Youth Climate Action Conference 2023
Goal of YCAC 2023: To engage youth in community climate action and strengthen our municipal climate strategies
Date and Time: Thursday, Mar. 2, from 8:45 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Location: The Harmony Centre, 890 4th Ave. E., Owen Sound
Organized by: Local teacher Hilary Coburn and the CATOS group (Climate Action Team Owen Sound)
On Thursday, Mar. 2, 50 local Grades 6 to 8 student council leaders will be attending Owen Sound’s first Youth Climate Action Conference.
Students will be inspired by local climate heroes’ presentations in the morning, and empowered to create their own Community Climate Action Projects during the afternoon workshops.
After taking part in an inspiring day of learning and action planning, all delivered by volunteers, students will receive mentorship and ongoing support to help bring their Community Climate Action Projects to fruition.
Over 25 climate advocate volunteers from all ages and parts of the community will be coming together to engage youth in community climate action and help to strengthen our municipal climate strategies.
Special guests include MP Alex Ruff, Bluewater District School Board superintendents and trustees and Owen Sound city councillors and Georgian Bluff town councillors.
Morning presenters include:
- Dr. John Anderson – Climate Scientist and Climate Activist
- Natasha & Christopher Akiwenzie – Chippewas of Nawash environmental leaders of Bagida’waad Alliance
- Randy Scherzer – Deputy CAO for the County of Grey
- Jon Farmer – City Councillor and Supervisor of the Men’s Program
- Liz Zetlin – Filmmaker, Environmental Activist, and Poet
- Emily Mansur – Saugeen Ojibway Nation Coastal Waters Monitoring Manager
- Joachim Ostertag – Community Coordinator and Climate Activist
Organizer Hilary Coburn says she feels no option but to encourage community action and collaboration in the face of the climate crisis.
“As you know, climate change is the most pressing issue of our time; and our local youth deserve the opportunity, and are our best hope, to become climate action leaders and heroes. Our youth also possess a magical power to have local politicians, businesses and leaders listen to their questions and creative problem solving ideas. My cup is filled with hope and positive energy ... I truly look forward to seeing what Community Climate Action Projects our local student leaders will create and challenge our city with,” said Ms. Coburn.
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source, media release, Hilary Coburn
