Watch highlights from the Prize giving day
Friday 27th October marked a very special day for many of our Rockwatchers and not just because for most it was half term, but because it was the Rockstars Young Geologists’ Competition Prize Giving ceremony.
Hosted by its long-term sponsors at the Anglo American Foundation offices in London, the Rockwatch annual Rockstars Competition Prize Giving Ceremony was an opportunity to celebrate and applaud the creative and insightful efforts of our young geologists.
The Competition, which aims to inspire children and young people to explore and share a geological topic however they choose over the summer holidays, is now in its 13th year.
Rockwatch Chair, Clare Byrne welcomed prize winners and their families to the event and thanked the Anglo American Foundation for hosting the auspicious occasion and for supporting the Competition once again. In her introduction Clare referred to the prize-giving day as an important acknowledgement of all the hard work and passion entrants had put in to their competition entries, commenting,
“It is truly inspiring to see the levels of knowledge and enthusiasm that our competition winners have demonstrated. Well done to you, and all the other entrants, who I hope will try again next year.
Our grateful thanks go to AAF for making the competition possible and hosting us here today in such splendid style.”
Maike von Heymann, Head of the Anglo American Foundation, welcomed prize winners to the prestigious event and spoke about the importance of investing in the Rockstars Young Geologists’ Competition to enable children and young people to develop their passions in geology and geoscience. In her address Maike said,
“At the Foundation, we believe in putting young people at the heart of everything we do, giving them the tools to create a positive impact and unlock their full potential. These young geologists being awarded today have the power to protect our planet and ensure a sustainable future for all. We are proud to support Rockwatch for championing curiosity and exploration.”
Former Rockwatcher, Catherine Clark, then gave an engaging presentation about her journey to becoming a geologist and her role as a senior geologist with Anglo American. It was really inspiring to hear how her early introduction to geology through Rockwatch had helped to inspire her to become a professional geologist. As Catherine explained,
“Rockwatch holds a special place in my heart. I have many cherished memories of attending club meetings and combing the British coastline looking for ammonites or shark teeth with my Grandad. Rockwatch planted the first seed of passion for geology and learning about the treasures hidden within the earth. I am honoured to be invited to speak at this wonderful event celebrating the next generation of geologists.”
Before being presented with their awards, guests watched the Premiere of this year’s Rockstars Competition Showcase 2023 which features many of this year’s competition entrants.
Watch some highlights from the Prize Giving Day and also this year’s Rockstars Competition Showcase.
