Cocurricular Clubs
Tackling Global Issues at the United Nations Youth Voice Competition
On Saturday 19 October, Year 7 students Aashray So and Paolo Corneli represented Redlands at the United Nations Youth Voice Competition, held at the University of Technology Sydney. The event provided a platform for young people to explore pressing global challenges, ranging from the rapid pace of technological development in Australian schools to combatting loneliness.
Both Aashray and Paolo demonstrated exceptional speaking skills and presented innovative solutions to these complex issues. Their participation not only highlighted their ability to articulate thoughtful perspectives but also their commitment to addressing real-world problems.
Reflecting on his experience, Aashray shared:
“To reflect on my experience, I would say it was a very enlightening activity. I came to understand that writing a speech is not as simple as it seems. You can write it, but you’re not done there. You must edit and revise it, add humour and facts, research the topic, and overall put a lot of work into it. I think that my process was very enjoyable as I was interested in my topic (how the loneliness epidemic can be combatted) and was excited to present my hard work in a supportive yet still competitive environment. Overall, it was very enjoyable, and I would definitely do it again.”
The competition allowed students to engage with the global community, sharpening their communication skills while addressing some of the most significant issues facing the world today. It was an inspiring day, and we are incredibly proud of their achievements.
Thank you to Vyvian Kang for her assistance on the day.

From Garden to Table: A Hands-On Harvest with the Gardening and Environment Club
The Gardening and Environment Club offers a wonderful opportunity for students to connect with nature and learn about sustainable food practices. Meeting every Monday at lunchtime, the club allows students to experience the full cycle of growing and harvesting their own produce. This week, students celebrated their efforts by harvesting carrots, which had been carefully nurtured throughout the past term.
The students were excited to pull the carrots from the soil, eager to see the results of their patience and care. These freshly harvested carrots will be incorporated into their dinner, making the experience both rewarding and practical as they get to enjoy the fruits of their labour. This hands-on experience not only enhances their understanding of food sources and environmental responsibility but also cultivates valuable life skills in gardening and sustainability. The club continues to thrive as a space for students to engage actively in sustainable practices and appreciate the benefits of homegrown food.
Nick Walker
Coordinator of Activities
nwalker@redlands.nsw.edu.au