This week, five of our Roche Grises students had the extraordinary opportunity to attend the Villars Institute Symposium at the iconic Villars Palace, an annual gathering that brings together global leaders, innovators, and youth to explore urgent questions about climate action, sustainability, and systems leadership.
Sonia Ballhausen, Ines Navratil, Chrysi Pantazi, Kirill Faydysh, were exceptional ambassadors for our school community. They took part in dynamic workshops, collaborative ideathons, and thought-provoking plenary sessions, showing genuine curiosity, critical thinking, and a strong dedication to sustainability. In addition, fellow student Renzo Lacida contributed directly on the institute’s team as a 2024 Villars Fellow, playing a key role in logistics and event organization.
This year’s symposium featured a remarkable lineup of speakers, offering students direct access to some of the world's most forward-thinking minds. Key voices included Dr. Johan Rockström (climate scientist at the Potsdam Institute), Dr. Laura Penn (expert in leadership communication), and Keith Tuffley (sustainability leader and polar explorer).
Students were also fortunate to be inspired by incredible stories of young people making a global impact. They heard from Jade Hameister, who set multiple world records including becoming the youngest person to complete the Polar Hat-Trick, skiing to the North Pole, South Pole, and across Greenland. She is also the first Australian woman to ski unsupported and unassisted from the coast to the South Pole.
Alongside her, they heard from Arzucan Our Askin, a dedicated shark researcher who is transforming the way we understand and protect these fascinating creatures. These stories highlighted how young people are leading bold and innovative efforts to safeguard our planet’s future.
One of the most impactful aspects of the symposium was the atmosphere of shared purpose and action. Surrounded by students and educators from across the world, our students reflected on how young people can be catalysts for environmental change, not someday, but now. They tackled real-world challenges, explored the intersection of climate and economics, and contributed their voices to discussions that matter.
Back at school, these five ambassadors return not only with new knowledge and ideas, but also with renewed passion to inspire our community. Their presence at Villars is a powerful reminder that learning extends far beyond the classroom, and that students can play an active role in shaping a more just, and sustainable world.
Kim Goldsworthy
