Workshops
info@uptoyoufoundation.comAt Up To You Foundation, we are committed to inspiring the next generation of environmental leaders by engaging elementary school children through our educational workshops. Our workshops target students, up till now has been aged 9-13, specifically those in grade 6, 7, and 8. Through interactive, hands-on learning, these workshops aim to spark a passion for sustainability and instill a lifelong sense of responsibility towards our planet. So far, this program has reached over 20 schools across various regions of Suriname, impacting around 120 classes individually and engaging nearly 3,000 children in just a few short years.
Workshop Activities: Presentation and ‘Real Life Kahoot’ Game
Each workshop session is designed to be both educational and interactive, combining direct learning with engaging activities. The session starts with a presentation about the basic knowledge concerning plastic usage, plastic waste, plastic pollution, and especially the consequences of mismanaged plastic waste. After the presentation, the students are separated in groups, are handed out four different colors of flags, and informed about the interactive game that they will be engaging in. With this game, the students answer sustainability-focused questions using the different flags separated by color. This game is called ‘Real Life Kahoot’ and has three main aims during the session: to increase collaboration between the students; to ensure the knowledge of the presentation is tested; and for the students to actively listen to the questions which also challenges their other capabilities. This game-based learning experience not only makes the information memorable but also promotes friendly competition and active participation.
Through this hands-on, inclusive approach, our workshop program continues to build momentum, motivating young minds to embrace sustainable habits early on. We believe that by fostering environmental awareness and responsibility in students today, we are laying the groundwork for a greener, more sustainable Suriname tomorrow.
Data Collection: Understanding Behavioral Shifts
To ensure that our workshops are impactful, we collect data on the behaviors and responses of students during each session. This data helps us understand how students engage with plastic usage and waste related topics and where our curriculum can be strengthened. By observing changes in knowledge and existing behavior, we are better able to tailor our approach, ensuring that each workshop resonates with students on a personal level. Tracking data also allows us to share valuable insights with our sponsors and stakeholders, who support us in expanding the reach of these initiatives.
Workshop Sponsorship by Het Cultuurfonds
One of our most impactful partnerships to date has been with Het Cultuurfonds, which generously sponsored a series of workshops focused on integrating reusable products into students’ daily lives. This project, which ran from April to August 2024, equipped students with essential, eco-friendly tools such as reusable bags, snack packs, and bottles. Each item is intended to reduce waste while also giving students a tangible way to practice the lessons learned in our workshops.
Thanks to Het Cultuurfonds, we saw a significant increase in student engagement as they recognized the role of reusable products in reducing plastic waste and protecting the environment. This project not only provided practical resources to students but also allowed us to amplify our message across communities, reaching new schools and making a lasting impact on students’ behavior toward plastic use.
