CONFERENCES
Empowering the Youth through STEAM: NOVUS Inspires Innovation in ISM Conference 2024
NOVUS members attending the ISM STEAM Conference 2024
December, 8 2024 • ZAIRA PACASUM
Last November 30, 2024, the International School Manila (ISM) commenced its STEAM convention, inviting NOVUS to share its vision and mission to inspire students nationwide to participate in their upcoming NOVUS Case Competition 2025.
The ISM STEAM convention empowered high school students to discover their passions in science, technology, engineering, arts, and math fields. High school students were given the opportunity to set up exhibits centered on any STEAM-related themes, allowing the youth to explore their interests in these fields. Through this, the students were given a platform to present their ideas and projects to highly qualified judges and speakers.
During the event, NOVUS’ Country Director, Stephanie Lai, Executive Secretary, Rheign Teodoro, and External Relations member, Samantha Lai, gave high school students a glimpse of what it was like to participate in a case competition. Through a mini-workshop, participants from various schools collaborated to develop innovative and sustainable solutions for the significant flooding issues faced by the Filipino community, inspiring them to find ways to address pressing global issues.
High School Students collaborating during the NOVUS Workshop
Moreover, they shared NOVUS' mission to enable purposeful youth-driven innovation, encouraging students to immerse in STEAM on a greater level through the stories they shared. By providing a space where students can tackle real-world issues, NOVUS challenges participants to think critically and creatively. This workshop not only allowed students to explore their interests but also enabled them to develop valuable skills and connect with peers who share similar passions in STEAM fields.
Overall, NOVUS motivated high school students from across the nation to delve deeper into the world of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics through its innovative case competitions.
Through this convention, the NOVUS members immersed themselves in the medical and artistic field of STEAM. The members shared their own experiences being a part of NOVUS, emphasizing the importance of youth involvement in solving world issues. The organization's workshop and participation in the event helped members realize that the possibilities in STEAM are endless.
Student participants and exhibitors during a discussion on the STEAM topic
The convention concluded with speaker Karen Davila imparting her knowledge and experience as the first UN Women National Goodwill Ambassador. One of her biggest advocacies is promoting STEAM education to empower women and inspire change.
The ISM STEAM convention truly impacted the new generation of students, establishing a common ground that the youth are our future. It served as a platform for young minds to not only explore their interests but also foster positive mindsets for innovations in the STEAM field. NOVUS' participation reinforced the idea that "Youth innovation is key to uplifting the community".