This fall, the Long Point Biosphere Region (LPBR) was proud to support three inspiring young people in attending Ontario Nature’s 2025 Youth Summit for Mother Earth. This annual event brings together passionate youth from across Ontario for a weekend of hands-on workshops, nature-based activities, and leadership training, all designed to empower a young generation of environmental stewards.
Thanks to generous community donations to the Biosphere’s Bella Bursary, LPBR was able to collaborate with Ontario Nature to make this life-changing experience possible. The Youth Summit, held in September 2025, offered participants a unique opportunity to explore conservation issues, learn from Indigenous Knowledge Keepers, and build lasting connections with like-minded youth who share a commitment to protecting the natural world.
Among this year’s Bella Bursary delegates was a local secondary school student whose enthusiasm for conservation made her an excellent representative of our region’s youth community. Joining her were two recent participants of the Long Point Bird Observatory’s 2025 Young Ornithologists’ Workshop (YOW), who discovered the Summit sponsorship opportunity through their involvement in the local event. Their shared experiences at the Summit included guided nature hikes, skill-building sessions on environmental advocacy, and opportunities to develop new conservation projects to bring home to their communities.
“The Long Point Biosphere believes that supporting youth participation in events like the Youth Summit has a lasting ripple effect,” says LPBR Executive Director Janet Dassinger. “These young leaders return home inspired and equipped with new knowledge, networks, and ideas that strengthen local environmental initiatives.”
Dassinger adds that this engagement also reflects the Biosphere’s commitment to fostering a culture of stewardship across generations.
This
initiative was made possible not only through the Bella Bursary but also through co-sponsorship by the Thunder Bay Field Naturalists and the strong partnership with Ontario Nature. Their combined support has allowed the Biosphere to continue its youth engagement efforts. In fact, because of these partnerships, LPBR will be able to dedicate funds to help send even more young people to the Youth Summit in 2026.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all donors, partners, and community members who make programs like this possible. Together, we are empowering youth to become passionate advocates for the environment, ensuring that the natural beauty and ecological richness of the Long Point region continue to thrive for generations to come.
- “As I enter my final year of high school, it is opportunities like the [Youth Summit for Mother Earth] that solidify in my mind that no matter where I end up, my appreciation and passion for nature will always be at the forefront of the decisions that will influence the trajectory of the rest of my life and for that, I am truly grateful.”
- “The Summit taught me the importance of approaching eco-activism and working with others with a positive mindset. I gained a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of nature and how small action can make a significant difference in promoting and protecting the environment. I brought the steps to successful eco-activisms and new habits to aid the environment to my school’s environmental club. […] The knowledge and inspiration I gained at the Summit will guide my efforts to make a positive impact in my community and beyond.”
To learn more about the Youth Summit and contribute to it click here.