Pictured: Astrid (centre) with NQCC staff team Luna (left) and Crystal (right).

I am Astrid, and this week I have been with NQCC for work experience from Pimlico State High School. I have enjoyed it very much! Throughout the week I observed meetings, helped with the planning of events, preparations of workshops, writing blogs, and connecting with NQCC members like the Landcare group. I now have a better idea of the importance of maintaining and forming new relationships with stakeholders and communities.

I think that action and ideas from the younger generation is a fundamental part of working towards change in the current environmental situation, since we will be the ones left to step into leadership positions in the future. Additionally, younger minds may contribute to changing the attitudes and culture faced at climate change and activism in the current political and social stage. Possibly opening a new range of ideas and innovation if young people were incorporated into the decision -making of environmental matters, which may be key to halting the fuelling of climate change due to Government decisions. Conservation efforts from younger people are important to care for our environment, as well as influencing other young people to do so as well. Environmental conservation will foster a mindset of care in young people, consequently benefiting other aspects of their life as well.

I have gained a lot of new experiences and understandings from an organisation like NQCC, which I will use frequently in the future. Luna and Crystal were great mentors to me, helping and teaching me new skills required in the workplace, and life. From this experience, I have learned about the crucial role of organisations like NQCC, and how important NQCC’s work is for protecting our environment through making connections, advocating, and campaigning. Thank you NQCC! <3