When it came to writing an essay on the values of global citizenship, Renée Wong didn’t have to do much research.
Instead, the Grade 7 student from Diefenbaker school simply tapped into her own experiences and was rewarded as one of 10 finalists from across the country in World Literacy Canada’s Write for a Better World creative writing contest.
“We had to write about waking up in a different culture and what we’d learn from that,” said Renée who based her piece on several trips she has made with her family to Japan, where she was eager to learn more about the culture and day-to-day lifestyle that was markedly different from hers in Richmond.
“I wrote that I met a whole group of totally cool people who became my really good friends and showed me around,” said Renée, 13. “And at last, when I had to leave, I told them that, although we live in different places, we can still be friends because it’s in our hearts to remain connected.”
“The streets were bright and colourful, and the clothing people wore was very different than styles I saw back at home,” Renée wrote in her essay. The people here were very outgoing and expressed themselves through their wardrobe. I felt like I was underdressed. I was amazed and awestruck as we explored the many wonders of Japan.
The Write for a Better World contest targeted students in Grades 5 to 8 and encouraged them to practise their creative writing skills, while promoting the values of global citizenship.
“Through our Canadian Programing, WLC works to inspire young people to read and write and to see themselves as global citizens, while encouraging them to be inquirers, thinkers, communicators, and open minded individuals,” said WLC’s Emma Anderson.
For her efforts, Renée received $50, a selection of books by New York Timesbest-selling fantasy author Kelley Armstrong, an atlas and a set of maps.
