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Green Jam 2022

Green Jam 2022 was live and enlivening! The sustainability conference was an amazingly informative and inspiring event. A result of the collaboration of students from Wastewise, Year 12 Education for Sustainability and the Kaitiaki rōpū. 

The Zoo generously allowed us to use its Domes and Classrooms to host the conference. The workshop facilitators; Para Kore Ki Tāmaki, Sustainable Coastlines, Make It 16, InsideOUT, EcoMatters, the Polynesian Panthers, Urban Ark and the Zoo Biosecurity Team as well as Niki Harré from the University of Auckland and Bridgette Glasgow from the Auckland Council, kindly donated their time and shared their knowledge and passion. In addition to sustainably-minded students from Western Springs Ngā Puna O Waiōrea, students from a number of other schools were invited to attend. 

The conference provided an opportunity for Year 12 Education for Sustainability students to present their Personal Projects, an important part of their NCEA course. As part of their projects, Ruby Barr, Frankie Simes Foster and Barnaby Salmon sold freshly baked treats and recycled clothing at Green Jam. With the funds raised, the students have purchased another solar panel for the school. The unsold clothes were donated to the Wastewise Clothing Recycle held each term. 

The conference began with the Zoo as the keynote speaker, followed by three workshop sessions and a panel discussion. The ability of the workshops to inform and inspire culminated in a successful last session, where students networked and made plans going forward. 

The dedication and talent of our students was evident. Alivia McMurtry, an experienced Green Jamer, was the lead student organizer, assisted by Jo Lourens and Sofia Rogers Williams. Jo Lourens, a dynamic master of ceremonies, was supported by Arahi Sionetali Rattray. Arahi and Hugo Bunce-Williams facilitated a well-received hands-on workshop on weaving, and on the development of a Pā Harakeke on the school grounds.  Zylah Vivace, Quinn Dye and Monty Baker recorded the event. George Davidson-Sims, Enzo Vivace and Zariya Alibhai met and greeted our guests. While Henri Woodley and Quinn preempted any technical difficulties. 

Green Jam 2022 was a success thanks to the mahi and passion of, not only those students mentioned, but all the students involved. Although the event was student-led, it would not have been possible without the guidance and support of Chrislyn Averill (Year 12 Education for Sustainability kaiako), Whaea Alice (Kaitiaki rōpū kaiako) and Rebecca Ferguson (Inclusive Learning Assistant).

We look forward to Green Jam 2023!

Marie Hickey – Wastewise kaiako

Photo credits: Zylah Vivace and Quinn Dye

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