NASSAU, BAHAMAS — Sustainable Studio delivered on its promise of prizes, projects, and preparedness, giving campers an unforgettable four weeks in July filled with hands-on learning and creative challenges.
The program, designed for children aged 8-16, concluded with an inspiring series of pitch presentations, where participants showcased innovative social justice business plans developed over the course of the camp.
This year’s camp was structured around the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and was divided into four thematic weeks: People, Planet, Peace, and Partnership. Each week, campers engaged in hands-on activities and discussions designed to cultivate a deep understanding of sustainability and social justice, guided by a diverse group of guest experts and partners.
Participants began their journey by exploring sustainable food practices that are aligned with SDGs such as No Poverty, Zero Hunger, Good Health and Well-being, and Responsible Consumption and Production. During this week, campers learned about reducing food waste and participated in a field trip to Hands for Hunger, where they contributed to food distribution efforts.
The camp then transitioned to a focus on Gender Equality, Decent Work and Economic Growth, and Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. Vanessa Bethel from the Organization for Responsible Governance led discussions on the importance of equal opportunities and civic responsibility, while disabilities advocate Erin Brown of Erin Brown Connects inspired campers with her powerful message on inclusivity. Campers also had the opportunity to engage with Travis Miller of Arrowlynk Ventures, who introduced them to innovative entrepreneurial concepts, and Chester Robards, who led a 3D printing workshop using recycled plastic that campers collected from Montague Beach as ‘plastic warriors’ guided by Dr Kristal Ambrose of Bahamas Plastic Movement (BPM).
The third week was dedicated to Reduced Inequalities, Sustainable Cities, Climate Action, and Life Below Water. Cordelia Dean from Cloud Carib led kids in a cybersecurity workshop while sharing her experiences as a woman in the tech industry. Crystal Darling from the Bahamas Reef Environment Educational Fund (BREEF) engaged the campers in a session on coral bleaching and the impacts of environmental degradation. Later in the week, the campers visited the New Providence Ecology Park, where Drexel Gomez provided a guided tour, teaching them about the park’s waste management practices and sustainability goals. The week concluded with Erin Greene from Seasonal Sunshine leading a hands-on workshop on backyard farming and sustainable agriculture, where campers learned about seed selection and companion planting and created their own DIY planters.
The highlight of the week—and the program—was “pitch day,” where campers presented their business ideas to a panel of judges. The success of this summer program was evident not only in the projects completed but also in the enthusiasm and dedication of the participants. By focusing on the UN Sustainable Development Goals, Sustainable Studio provided a platform for young minds to think critically about global challenges and their role in addressing them.
For more information about Sustainable Me and upcoming programs/workshops, please visit sustainableme.org.
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