The first Get to Know International Unconference took place on June 7-9, 2010 in Kelowna BC. This innovative, participant-driven forum united leading educators, NGOs, businesses, government representatives and youth delegates in a search for creative approaches to getting young people outdoors and connecting with nature.
The 2010 Unconference commemorated the 10th anniversary of the Get to Know Program, World Oceans Day, International Year for Biodiversity, and Robert Bateman's 80th Birthday.
Robert Bateman helped inspire productive dialogue by taking part in the three-day event and giving the keynote address. States Bateman: "After ten years of developing the Get to Know Program across Canada, seeing first-hand the passion, insight, and boundless creativity of young people, I am very proud of what we have accomplished. It is my sincere hope that the Unconference will play a fundamental role in further establishing a call to action among corporations, non-profit organizations and education officials alike."
World-renowned marine life artist and activist Wyland also took an active role and spoke at the Unconference. In addition, Wyland lead a marine mural painting activity with elementary-aged youth attending the 12th annual Wild Festival for Youth, a leading environmental youth-centered festival in Western Canada.
Other participants included Hon. Ted Morton, Alberta Minister of Finance and Enterprise; Gloria Manning, Associate Chief of the US Forest Service; and Wade Luzny, Executive Vice President of the Canadian Wildlife Federation.
Through the dialogue at the Unconference, many elegates made genuine connections that we know will lead to the development of new projects and joint initiatives. We also encourage all those who attended to remember and keep true to their commitments for connecting youth with nature. Thank you to all who attended this great event, and we are looking forward to seeing you at the 2011 Unconference!
New! A complete summary of this year's Unconference is available in the 2010 Unconference Final Report.
Read the 2010 Unconference Final Report »
Watch a Thank-You Video Message from Wyland »
Discussion Forum (for attendees) »
Contact us with any questions you may have.
Photos at top right courtesy of Andrew Klaver Photography and the Nature Trust of BC.
