Stars and STEM Stories
Inspiration Amid Adversity: Recap of the XX GLOBE LAC Regional Meeting
The XX GLOBE Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) Regional Meeting was a remarkable event held from 12-14 October 2023 in Panama City, just steps away from the historic Panama Canal. Representatives from 15 countries, including the Bahamas, Colombia, the United States, Ecuador, Guatemala, Paraguay, Argentina, Uruguay, Chile, Surinam, Brazil, Panamá, Peru, the Dominican Republic and Costa Rica gathered in a unique and innovative approach. Additionally, seven teachers and their students from Argentina, Colombia, Panamá, and Uruguay joined, highlighted the collaborative nature of the meeting to enrich the learning experience.
The opening ceremony was an exciting moment with speeches by Carmen Ester Aparicio Guzmán (Coordinator of Panama), Maruja Gorday de Villalobos (Minister of Education of Panama), Ivan Rios from the United States Embassy in Costa Rica, Tony Murphy (GLOBE Implementation Office Director), and Mariana Savino (LAC Regional Coordinator). This marked the beginning of a magical experience for all attendees.
On the first day, Murphy presented strategic plans for GLOBE. There was also an exchange of best practices between Country Coordinators (Brazil and Suriname), an update of the GLOBE website by David Overyone, and presentations from the education, evaluation, and inclusion working groups. The program also included a session on using The GLOBE Observer app. Lyn Wigbels, International GLOBE Coordinator, presented information about the GLOBE plus post, and Andrea Ventoso discussed strategies for applying for grants from the United States Embassy.
This regional meeting is crucial for the global GLOBE network, as it provides a platform for Coordinators and educators from Latin America and the Caribbean to share experiences and knowledge. Collaboration between countries and updating strategies and resources are essential to drive The GLOBE Program forward in the region.
The involvement of teachers and students in the meeting highlights the importance of scientific education and the active participation of the younger generation in environmental research. This interaction enriches the learning experience and promotes a deeper understanding of science and the environment. Additionally, the presentation of projects, cultural exchange activities, and the eclipse observation reinforce the practical approach and the application of science in everyday life, which is essential for the continued success of GLOBE.
This event marked a milestone by strengthening the bond between The GLOBE Program and NASA. Renowned NASA scientists, including Kristen Weaber, Rosalba Giarratano, Peter Falcon, and Erika Podest, shared their extensive knowledge with the participants during the meeting, exemplifying the principles of Open Science. What made this encounter even more special was their willingness to be face-to-face with people of all ages, from eager young learners to educators and community members. Their humble attitude and their willingness to teach and learn together served as a powerful example of how education and collaboration, in the spirit of Open Science, can benefit the entire community. The presence of these NASA scientists not only enriched the meeting experience but also demonstrated the shared commitment of GLOBE and NASA to inspire and educate future generations in the field of science and research through the principles of Open Science.
This occasion in Panama was not only a forum for sharing knowledge and strategies but also a tangible reminder of the importance of maintaining hope and resilience in the face of adverse conditions. A perfect example of this was the observation of the annular solar eclipse, one of the most anticipated moments of the meeting. Everything was meticulously planned, teams were ready, and excitement was at its peak. However, as often happens in science and life, the unexpected occurred: a torrential rain threatened to thwart the observation. Disappointment could have taken over the situation, but instead, resilience emerged as a powerful skill.
Despite adverse conditions, the team didn't give up. Instead of lamenting what they couldn't control, they took determined steps to ensure the observation's purpose was fulfilled. Adapting to ever-changing circumstances, they devised clever solutions to carry on with the plan. While measurements were being taken at the American Center, the team and NASA scientists warmly welcomed people who approached. After several hours, as the eclipse was nearing its end, during the transfer to the hotel, a teacher exclaimed, "The sky has cleared, we can see the eclipse!" Everyone disembarked from the vehicle, and with astonishment reflected on their faces, they gazed upon this unique and spectacular event. This episode not only underscores the importance of resilience in scientific research but also serves as a valuable reminder that, in both life and science, adversity can turn into an opportunity.
This spirit of resilience and perseverance, observed during the eclipse, is a fundamental lesson that translates into all aspects of education and science. It teaches students, educators, and scientists that, although challenges may arise along the way, determination and hope can lead us to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles. The ability to adapt and move forward, even when circumstances are unfavorable, is an essential trait that drives continued success in scientific research and education.
Ultimately, the XX GLOBE LAC Regional Meeting in Panama stood out not only for its scientific achievements but also for its inspiration to face challenges with resilience and keep hope alive. Science, education, and collaboration continue to be our guiding lights, even on the cloudiest days.
Images courtesy LAC Regional Coordinating Office.