Additional Information

Personal Definition of Sustainability
I view sustainability in the broad sense - in terms of acting in a way that will allow future generations to live the same, if not a higher quality of life than we do today. Given that definition I believe we are all responsible for ensuring that we study, work, and play with sustainability in mind. From a business perspective this means acting in a socially, environmentally and economically responsible way when conducting day to day activities and in long term endeavors.

Sustainability-in-Action
Over the years I have been engaged in more 'charity' centred initiatives - for instance I helped organize this years' Ivey Fashion show, where 100% of the proceeds went to the Canadian Cancer society. In my last year of high school I ran an event around the winter holidays where students at my school put together gift boxes (filled with small toys, toiletry items, candy, etc.) that would be sent to children in developing nations. The transport and distribution was facilitated by Dr. Simone - an individual who worked closely with my school and has dedicated his life to helping those in the poorest nations in the world. These activities have been great experiences, but I would like to get involved in projects that have more of a lasting impact, that, in a sense are more sustainable and less of a one-time donation kind of scenario. This summer I am hoping to engage in some sort of sustainability-related activities around my existing commitments. Regardless, I am excited to have the opportunity to apply for the certificate because of the exposure it will give me to business and sustainability - not only in the classroom, but hopefully extending into the real world as well.