Student helps others step into the future

Written By Peter Allan

Quinn MacAskill presenting at a school-wide Climate Education Day. Photo courtesy: Davin MacAskill

 

By Patricia Lane & Quinn MacAskill

Quinn MacAskill helps us imagine a better future. This 20-year-old Dalhousie University student asks groups, “What is your dream for your community?” Then, she helps participants work together to step into that future.

Tell us about your work.

In the summer of 2024, I worked with EOS Eco-Energy to facilitate Climate Imagination Sessions in Tantramar, New Brunswick, with 300 people of all ages and walks of life to imagine a sustainable future for our community. Some were with middle school students, others at open sessions with a mix of ages and others were popup conversations at local markets.

The sessions often included some education and always had time for discussion and brainstorming. People loved hearing and sharing ideas and left feeling lifted up and inspired. Recommendations varied widely, from improving bike lanes and space for pedestrians to giving students access to community gardens and improving alerts for extreme weather events.

This work helped inform the municipality’s strategic plan and its climate adaptation efforts.

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Quinn is a 2025 National Youth Climate Activism award recipient.

 
Peter Allan
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