In January, we officially launched Youth Climate Ambassador Workshops in collaboration with the UBC Climate Hub. These free workshops are designed to empower high school youth to become community ‘Climate Ambassadors’.
Many resources already exist to teach students about the science of climate change and the urgent threat it poses to our society. However, evidence suggests that informing students about climate change is not enough, and that providing presentations only on the science of climate change can leave students feeling worried, anxious, and unable to engage. Youth Climate Ambassador Workshops empowers high school students to take climate action. We love the peer-to-peer process wherein university student facilitators engage high-schoolers in the climate movement through storytelling activities that build hope and agency.
To learn more about this program click here.
Here’s a quote from a student participant:
"It was also helpful to be reminded that I can make a change too...
As a grade 10 student, I can make a difference"
Grade 10 student,
Prince of Wales Secondary
Be The Change has also recently launched a new video series: Youth Action Stories. In these short videos, UBC students tell their stories of learning about global sustainability issues and taking action through our SLC program. The audience of the video series is high school students. Research finds that one of the most effective ways to engage youth in climate change education is through sharing stories of other youth taking action against climate change. These videos will leverage the power of peer-to-peer learning, and the role that youth action can have in motivating others.
Check out the one of the Youth Action Stories and be inspired by the future generation!
In January, we launched a new blog series focused on how to discuss the climate crisis in the classroom. The blogs address some of the common questions we get from teachers about how to broach the topic with students in a way that does not shy away from communicating the realities of the climate crisis, but that also does not leave students feeling hopeless. Each blog will focus on an inter-related but specific concern or challenge we have heard from teachers about bringing climate education into the classroom. Each post will synthesize research, tips and tricks, and advice from some of the leading experts, activists in the field.
There is a 3-part series being launched
1) Climate Communications
2) Navigating Eco-Anxiety (TBA)
3) Hope in the face of the climate crisis (TBA)
Click here to read our blog series
On January 6th, 2020, founder Maureen Jack-LaCroix passed on the torch to George Radner, Be The Change’s new Executive Director. George is 24 and has been passionate about climate justice from a young age. He believes deeply in the power of young people to ignite the shift required to address global issues such as the climate crises and create a more just, sustainable and connected world. George first connected with Be The Change a year ago when exploring ENGOs that could help him launch a climate action workshop project in high schools across Vancouver through his volunteer work with the UBC Climate Hub. George then served as a UBC student representative on the BTCEA Wisdom Circle and instantly connected with Be The Change’s mission and programs. George is both thrilled and grateful for the opportunity to guide Be The Change in its crucial work of educating and empowering the next generation of leaders.
The 2023/2024 school year is wrapping up, and what a fantastic year it has been! As the summer break approaches, we’ve been reminiscing about all the wonderful things we’ve had the opportunity to be involved with this year. From educational resource development to workshop delivery, our staff and volunteers have put their hearts and souls into the work we do here.
Introducing the Action Network: Action network map - Be The Change Earth Alliance
Be The Change is launching an exciting new resource to help connect passionate youth and educators across BC! This site showcases the stories of students and educators and highlights the actions taken by our network of changemakers through an interactive map.
Happy Earth Day! Today is a great opportunity to take a moment to connect with nature, practice gratitude, and reflect on the past few months as the seasons begin to change. The past couple months at Be The Change have been busy and rewarding, and we’d love to share some of our favourite moments with you!
