Eight local teenagers from the Peel region recently returned from exploring the spectacular wonders of UNESCO world heritage sites in the United States of America after being awarded NatureBridge scholarships by the Alcoa Foundation.
The teenagers were part of a 19-strong expedition of Western Australian recipients who joined 36 other students from Brazil, Canada, Hungary, Iceland, Spain and the United States.
The students worked together in groups to explore the themes of climate change and biodiversity through scientific investigations.
Pinjarra Senior High School student Gabrielle Rotairo trekked Shenandoah National Park in Virginia and said she achieved more than she thought she was capable of, overcoming the physically and mentally challenging hikes.
“The whole experience was life changing,” Gabrielle said.
“Not only did I learn about the environment but I learned a lot about myself.
“It was physically challenging but it made me mentally stronger.
“It is the best thing I have done in my life so far.”
Austin Cove Baptist College student Scott Haggerty said the highlight of his experience was making new friends and learning about their cultures and way of life.
“It surprised me how like-minded everyone on the trip was,” he said.
“Even though we all came from such different backgrounds we just naturally bonded in a genuine way and I have made life-long friendships because of this opportunity.”
The scholarships, which were first offered in 2014, are hosted by non-profit organisation NatureBridge.
They provide hands-on environmental field science education for teens and cover the cost of airfares, visas and the full two-week program.
The scholarships are awarded to young people within communities where Alcoa operates around the world.