What a whirlwind! 🌿I’ve just returned from the NZAEE Conference and am still trying to find the words for yet another fantastic, soul-enriching few days.
Staying at Motu Moana Camp in beautiful weather was a treat in itself, but being surrounded by the absolute taonga that are Aotearoa’s vibrant, passionate and incredibly knowledgeable environmental educators? A dream come true!✨
Eight years since the last fully in-person conference. 170 people in attendance. Rich mātauranga Māori woven throughout the kōrero. And so much new knowledge to add to my kete and bring back into my mahi.
Reconnecting kanohi ki te kanohi with the people who have encouraged, inspired, and empowered me since the beginning of my journey in environmental education, and meeting those I have followed for a long time, was especially meaningful. I soaked up every moment I could!
I also had the opportunity to share a blend of my kōrero about protecting curiosity and a hands-on workshop introducing educators to some of The Seed Pod’s free resources. And the best bit? We ended up staying together well into morning tea because everyone was having such a good time. When I pointed out that we were running over, the response was: “We want to stay, we’re having fun!” YAY! This is exactly what I love to see.
As educators, we spend so much time creating opportunities for others to be curious, explore and connect with the natural world. We need space for those experiences ourselves, too. Time to slow down, get hands-on, follow our curiosity and simply have fun learning alongside one another.
Huge thanks to everyone who made this conference so special. I’ve returned home with a full kete, a full heart and plenty to think about, explore and share.
If we connected at the conference, please stay in touch! theseedpod@outlook.com
