Empowering Youth for a Sustainable Future: The Sustainable Development Challenge

In the heart of the Central Okanagan, a remarkable initiative is taking place - the Sustainable Development Challenge, a platform that brings together passionate youth, community organizations, and mentors to address global issues and contribute to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Presented by Interior Savings, this year's Challenge promises an inspiring evening filled with project pitches, artistic expressions, and a commitment to making a positive impact on the world.

The finale is Thursday, February 22nd. Tickets can be purchased at: https://trellis.org/grand-finale-sdc

The Sustainable Development Project and Pitch:

Open to students in grades 8-12, the Sustainable Development Project and Pitch encourages teams to identify a global issue and collaborate with community organizations to devise innovative solutions. Mentored by local experts and leaders, these teams work tirelessly to build and implement viable projects that address their chosen issues. The top teams then pitch their projects live to judges and the public audience, vying for funding to turn their ideas into reality.

A quote from a student last year states, “I feel like I learned so much in this experience that I couldn't mention everything in only a few sentences! The biggest takeaway I had was to not be afraid of failing. My whole life I have been a perfectionist and always want to make sure everything is perfect. In doing this challenge I have learned to roll with the punches and get everything finished while not stressing about perfection. I have also furthered my confidence in public speaking which has made me consider pursuing it further in my future. Completing this challenge has also opened me up to a whole new sector of potential future careers which has been really enlightening and exciting for me. I have also just felt really happy because my team and I are actually making a tangible, positive difference in people's lives, which feels really great!”

Arts for Social Change:

Beyond the realm of project pitches, the Arts for Social Change initiative invites youth aged 5-25 to express their commitment to SDGs through various artistic mediums, such as dance, music, video, spoken word, and visual arts. The goal is to raise critical awareness about global issues, including human rights, environmental justice, and marginalization. The top projects receive public gallery space, live presentation opportunities, and financial awards to further their cause.

Okanagan College Mentorship:

A unique aspect of the Sustainable Development Challenge is the mentorship provided by Okanagan College (OC) students. OC students are actively engaging with youth leaders in grades 8-12, offering valuable guidance and insights as the high school teams prepare for the Challenge finale.

This collaboration exemplifies students helping students tackle some of the most pressing global issues identified by the United Nations.

Your Voice Matters:

For those aged 5-25 who are passionate about social causes, the Arts for Social Change Project provides a platform to amplify your message related to the UN SDGs.

Through various artistic forms, participants can unleash their creativity, and their work may be showcased at prestigious venues, including the Rotary Centre for the Arts and the live Sustainable Development Challenge finale event on February 22, 2024.

Decision Criteria for Art Exhibits:

The project emphasizes the power of expression over perfection, focusing on the message behind the art. Key criteria include how well the art aligns with the themes of the UN SDGs, its ability to connect with the audience, diversity and representation of youth perspectives, and practical considerations like size and suitability for exhibition.

The Sustainable Development Challenge is not just an event; it's a movement that empowers youth to be catalysts for positive change. Through projects, pitches, and artistic expressions, participants are contributing to a sustainable future, gaining insights into global issues, and leaving a lasting impact on their communities.

This initiative showcases the power of collaboration, mentorship, and creative expression in shaping a better world for all. Make sure to grab your tickets and donate here.