Youth Environment Sustainability: Rookie Training Shared

On March 2, 2024, we gathered for the Shanghai Roots & Shoots Youth for Environmental Sustainability (YES) Program and participated in the YES Mentor Orientation in a relaxed and enjoyable manner. The self-introduction was fascinating; we coincidentally chose ‘nature’ as the ice-breaking topic. Some of us shared unique nature names and their meanings, while others recounted personal stories with nature. These diverse experiences set the stage for the training, making it a truly unique and engaging experience.

Later, Sarah introduced Shanghai Roots & Shoots and presented the YES sample classBiodiversity on the Dream Farm,’ giving us a sense of relaxation as if we were in a natural countryside. Every element combined and intertwined represents unlimited creativity. Building biodiversity involves understanding the knowledge behind it and requires everyone to take responsibility for protecting the land.

On the other hand, Rebecca started the session with a paper-tearing communication game in which participants were blindfolded. This interactive activity was a great way to demonstrate the significance of multi-sensory teaching and the importance of interactive communication. We learned that communication is a two-way process; minds can only interact by inspiring each other. The ‘tasting oranges’ activity was another interactive session, which quickly taught us how to use all five senses to conduct themed activities in the classroom. These interactive elements made the training more enjoyable and effective.

Next, the experienced YES Mentor Miaomiao Tong vividly shared her journey of becoming a YES mentor. With her years of mentoring experience, she patiently clarified doubts and inspired our aspirations and confidence in being YES mentors. This has strengthened my determination to become a ‘YES Mentor’ who is loved by both children and teachers.

The most impressive part of the day was undoubtedly the diverse styles of the trial lectures presented by each group of new mentors. My two teammates and I were assigned the model lesson ‘The Roots’ Bag.’ During the trial , we interacted with everyone while holding a bag of seeds, as if we were playing a game with elementary school students. Everyone excitedly answered, ‘Green beans, soybeans, wheat…’ like children. The theme ‘Future Worlds’ presented by another group of mentors inspired my unlimited imagination about the future. We are all gathered here for a better and sustainable future!

We successfully concluded the class trial with laughter and joy. We look forward to our colorful and cheerful team bringing more joy and knowledge to the school. Just as Jane Goodall said, ‘Hundreds and thousands of roots and shoots, hundreds and thousands of young people worldwide, can break through these walls. You can change the world!’

Special thanks to Applied Material (China) for supporting the Shanghai Roots &Shoots YES Program.

by Meiyi Jiang (Shanghai Jiao Tong University)