The Knick Knack Nook has issued a call for applicants for a bursary that will go to students who have strong ties to Bowen Island and who are pursuing careers in support of environmental sustainability through studies at the undergraduate or post-graduate level.
Diane Marshall, the Knick Knack Nook's coordinator, said that this is the second year the bursary will be awarded. "Last year, it was $1,000, this year, we'll have two bursaries at $2,000 each," she said. The bursary reflects the Knick Knack Nook's purpose to foster environmental responsibility through both action and education.
Marshall believes that growing up in a place like Bowen Island encourages youth to take action for environmental sustainability. "I think that when we are surrounded by nature, we develop a particular sensibility and desire to work for the environment," she said. "I grew up in a wilderness area when I was young and that affected the rest of my life. That might be similar for Bowen youth this love for the environment might carry them through the rest of their lives."
Marshall recalls reading that the demand for courses in environmental education at universities and colleges has increased. "There's been a groundswell with people wanting to take environmental programs and universities had to develop those programs to reflect that need." This greater awareness of the environment and the challenges it faces has created a heightened consciousness among young people," says Marshall who sees this as a hopeful sign. "We haven't seen that many environmental programs in our traditional educational institutions until recently," she says. "It's an exciting time and it is an exciting time to be giving that bursary."
The application is due by June 20 and has to include information on the courses the student is enrolled in and how the studies will help him or her foster environmental sustainability. The student's connection to Bowen and the Bowen community needs to be included as well as his or her volunteer or other work that relates to community life and environmental sustainability.
Marshall says that the students need to outline their financial need and have to include proof of acceptance at a recognized Canadian post-secondary institution. A reference letter from someone other than a relative is also required.
A copy of the applicant's official transcript of scholastic standing from the most recent year of attendance at a recognized educational institution has to be part of the application package but Marshall says that the selection committee will primarily consider the applicants' personal qualities and overall sensibilities. "We are looking at the whole person rather than just the academic ranking," she said.
The application can be submitted electronically to the Bowen Island Community Foundation at [email protected].
The selection committee aims to come to a decision by the middle of August to allow students to plan for the year ahead, says Marshall.
