International Forestry Students' Symposium (IFSS) is the International Forestry Students' Association's largest annual general meeting, welcoming over 100 representatives from IFSA Local Committees from around the world. This was the first time in 42 years it was hosted in western North America! During this two-week long symposium, attendees learned about the ecological, economic and social values unique to forests of British Columbia. The Symposium also provided a fantastic networking opportunity for students to create meaningful connections with other students, as well as with local industry and academic institutions. By promoting intercultural understanding, IFSS created a dialogue around the sustainable future for the world's forests. Past IFSS have taken places as diverse as Spain Turkey, and Finland.

 

British Columbia is the westernmost province in Canada, with an economy centred around natural resources, particularly forest resources. Throughout the Symposium, we explored BC's:

-forest ecology and ecosystems

-wildlife and biodiversity

-forest management practices

-history and culture

-forestry education

 

My 16-day experience on International Forestry Students' Symposium 2014 in British Columbia reflected on how youth can be an asset beyond national and global political leaders in shaping the future into an advance green, low carbon emission and climate resilient one. It was developed through a collective goal of young individuals, which itself has armoured capability to participate and lead. Many pessimistic stereotypes about youth demonstrate how young people simply viewed as lacking potential, underprivileged and insufficient to problem solving. But beneath an iceberg, youth can positively contribute to massive transformation on political and environmental issues- an approach that views them as assets to the development at local and international stadium.

Youth stimulates knowledge and inspiration, uphold socio-environmental activism, engage to foster dialogue and unity, enforce environmental policies, advance the implementation, and wobble awareness among citizens and government. It is essential that the young decision makers of tomorrow will engage in the development decisions of today. It is time for the government to taste the reaped fresh perspectives, innovation and vigour of these young students, professionals and leaders in fulfilling the world we want.

The next IFSS 2015 will be in the Philippines! Forestry Students, hope to see you there next year! :)