Spotlight Series: 2023 SDG Multimedia Contest Reflections from Katrina St Louis | Seneca Business: Principles for Responsible Management Education

Katrina St Louis is a student in the Pre-Business program. In this blog entry, she describes her inspiration for and experience in the 2023 PRME SDG Multimedia Contest.

Why did you decide to partake in the contest?

This competition was recommended to me by my “Business Foundations” Professor Debi Tziatis. It was through her encouragement that led me to participate. Also, as a first-year business student, I was looking for opportunities to challenge myself, so competing against other Business students seemed like an ideal opportunity.

What inspired you to choose this initiative? 

The initiative caught my attention because I had previously worked in the construction industry. I was intrigued to do it because it not only combats the pollution and plastic problem but also contributes to other sustainable development goals (SDGs) such as SDG 8 Decent Work and Economic Growth, which I am currently studying in greater depth. 

(Gavran)

What was your project about?

The focus of my project was a Kenyan initiative to combat plastic by repurposing plastic waste into bricks. This assists in addressing the problem of plastic waste pollution in landfills and oceans, reduces energy and water consumption in creating new materials, and decreases greenhouse gas emissions from production and landfills. Social benefits also include the creation of jobs through new opportunities for waste management and manufacturing and leads to more affordable housing for low-income communities as plastic bricks are cheaper than concrete.

How did you like the awards ceremony?

I had just barely arrived and caught that my name was called during the award ceremony! I found it to be an enjoyable experience. My favourite part of the award ceremony was the cookies and popcorn that were served.

Any recommendations you would give future students taking part in the contest?

Focus on an approach that is already in place to combat today's global issues and think outside the box. Attempt to work together with your professor, if possible, because they can be one of your greatest mentors and sources of support.

Katrina St Louis

Pre-Business

SDG Multimedia Contest Entry:

References:

Gavran. Adobe Stock, stock.adobe.com/ca/contributor/202226230/gavran333?load_type=author&prev_url=detail. Accessed 19 Feb. 2024.