The Young Change Maker Awards

Year 6 students have once again been celebrating the achievements of individuals from around the world who have dedicated their lives to making the planet fairer, kinder and more sustainable. This year’s learning built upon an introduction to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with pupils reflecting thoughtfully on the issues they feel most passionate about and curious to explore further.

These reflections became the starting point for independent research, as students chose a Change Maker whose work aligned with their interests. Figures studied this year included Malala Yousafzai (SDG 4: Quality Education), Greta Thunberg (SDG 13: Climate Action), Sir David Attenborough (SDG 15: Life on Land), and Nelson Mandela (SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions). Through this process, students developed a deeper understanding not only of global challenges, but of the power individuals have to create meaningful change.

Using their research, students produced podcasts and TED-style talks, carefully crafted to inform, inspire and persuade an audience. The quality of these final pieces was exceptional, showcasing the children’s creativity, confidence and commitment to their chosen causes, as well as their growing technical and presentation skills. It was hard for the judges to choose the finalists for the Change Maker Awards!

All this work was celebrated in style at the 4th Annual Bangkok Patana Change Maker Awards. Dressed in their finest outfits, students walked the red carpet before sharing highlights from their podcasts and talks. The event was attended by school Senior Leaders, who were blown away by the professionalism, depth of thinking and polish of the final outcomes. Just as striking was the kindness and encouragement shown by the students themselves, as they enthusiastically cheered on their peers and celebrated one another’s success.

Awards were presented for creativity, originality, impact and motivation, making the event a joyful and affirming celebration of learning. It was a fitting conclusion to an inspiring unit—and a reminder that today’s learners may well become tomorrow’s Change Makers, inspiring future generations to follow in their footsteps.