In January we were proud to host our annual Roots & Shoots Awards Ceremony at Expo City, Dubai. Twelve schools were selected from over a hundred member schools to attend and present at this year’s Awards Ceremony. Their journey began in December, when each school submitted a compilation of their Roots & Shoots sustainability projects from the past year.
This year’s theme, ‘Celebrating UAE’s Coasts: How We Can Protect and Preserve Our Marine Life and Biodiversity’, challenged students to explore and present conservation techniques in this subject area that could be implemented regionally. The creativity and dedication behind every project and display were outstanding, with Jane especially impressed by those focused on animal conservation. The passion and commitment of our member schools continue to inspire us, making this year’s ceremony truly unforgettable.
Our participating schools this year were (in alphabetical order), Abu Dhabi Homeschoolers Association, Al Saad Indian School, Al Watan Charter School, American Community School, American School of Creative Science, Bangladesh School, Brilliant International Private School, GEMS United Indian School, Mayoor Private School, Pristine Private School, Sunrise English Private School, and Woodlem Park Dubai.
We also got a chance to recognize Clarion School, Regent International School, and Indian Academy Dubai. Our event began with project displays and then opening speeches from Tara Golshan, our UAE Executive Director, Marjan Faraidooni, Chief Education & Culture, Expo City Dubai, Reham Zia, Roots & Shoots UAE Schools Liaison & Outreach Officer, and concluded with Jane Goodall’s inspirational speech on “Hope”.
Join us in congratulating all the participants and members in the comments, and keep us posted on all your amazing conservation projects. Next year, it could be you attending the amazing awards day!
