Our guest speaker in September

Our guest speaker at this meeting was Jessica Pryor, in the picture with our President Terry Williams and Rotarian Richard Goddard.  Jessica was accompanied by her father.

16 year old Jessica is a year 11 student at the Deanery Academy in Swindon.  She has been an active member of the school’s student council since year 7 and was head student in years 8 and 9.  Throughout her time at the Deanery she has contributed to various school events, including the Festival of Tomorrow, and has completed several challenges and awards such as the Faraday Challenge, Young Leaders award, Duke of Edinburgh bronze, and Brightside STEM mentoring.

Recently, she took part in the Rotary Youth Speaks competition in Gloucester and her team came third in the senior category ahead of three sixth form teams from private  grammar schools.

Jessica has always been determined to push herself out of her comfort zone and ensure that everyone in the school community feels supported.  She has faced challenges, including bullying, but uses her involvement in various activities as a way to lead by example and not let adversity defeat her.

In July next year she is going to Zanzibar on a Global Action programme.

Educational School trips for Global Citizens

The tropical island archipelago of Zanzibar, off the coast of Tanzania, is known for its unique ecosystem and alternative ways of life.  It’s renowned for its spectacular coral reefs, sandy beaches, and coastal forests, which support many endemic and critically endangered species. The island is also known for its religious harmony, with various religions and tribes living side by side.  Zanzibar offers a unique opportunity to learn about conservation and biodiversity, with well-protected coral reefs and coasts, as well as National Parks and Butterfly centres that are biodiversity hotspots.

During her 15 day trip Jessica will snorkel in coral reefs, conduct observational surveys, learn about critically endangered animals like the Red Columbus Monkeys, work alongside female seaweed farmers, and explore sustainable solutions using recycled materials. She is particularly excited to learn about sustainable solutions and alternative ways of life, gaining a broader perspective on life outside the United Kingdom.

The Global Action programme aims to push students out of their comfort zones and change their perspectives. It offers diverse learning opportunities in marine conservation, terrestrial conservation, and alternative livelihoods, focusing on sustainable management, natural resource protection, and poverty reduction through sustainable resources.

After secondary school, Jessica plans to study A-level politics, business, and economics, and aims to attend the London School of Economics. The Global Action project, an ASDAN university award, will not only enhance her employability but also broaden her global outlook, helping her in her chosen subjects.

Jessica believes this trip will offer her significant personal growth, teaching her how to fundraise, budget, and become more independent.    Fundraise because that’s what she is doing to cover the £3,750 cost.

Her application to us for a £250 grant was successful and it was our pleasure to hand her the cheque at this meeting.