Intercity Shopping Centre's 13th Annual Northern Science Carnival Inspires Young People

Thunder Bay - science is an important part of our world.

Science North held its annual Science Carnival at the Intercity Shopping Centre on Saturday, aiming to inspire people and spark their love of science from a young age.

"Our week-long event culminates today at the Science Carnival. The Science Carnival is our biggest event of the week. It's open to the public, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and it's free for all ages," said Emily Kerton, Senior Manager of Outreach and Indigenous Programs at Science North in Thunder Bay.

"We have people here who work in science, and they're showcasing their science in a very fun, hands-on way. We're working with Lakehead University's research and innovation group, and they're showcasing some of the research they do, and then we have a main stage with live music and science demonstrations. In addition to that, we have countless different community groups and organizations showcasing all the cool science they do through hands-on exhibits and activities."

There were over 20 different local exhibitors with science-related activities and demonstrations.

On the main stage, audiences experienced science shows and participated in several experiments.

"It's really just about showing people that science is fun and accessible, and that they have the opportunity to do it," Kerton said.

Kerton said Saturday's carnival drew a lot of interest.

"There are a lot of families coming in. Also, people who just arrived at the mall didn't know there was a carnival today, so they joined in the celebration."

"The event has only been going for 40 minutes, and already about 400 people have gathered at the mall, so we expect to see thousands of people today," Kerton said.

She said science can solve many of the world's major problems.

"Getting people interested in science, especially at a young age, we've seen research results that show the younger people are when they get interested in science, the more likely they are to pursue a career in science in the future. That will help all of us solve some of the big world problems we face today."

"We want to inspire people, spark their love of science from a young age, and get them to think critically about everything that happens in their daily lives."

Kerton said one of the things Science North works on is ensuring that everyone across Northern Ontario has access to science.

"That means we have to make sure we can bring our programs and services to groups, communities, and different people across the North. One of the things we really focus on is making sure we bring our science equipment, services, and programs to Indigenous communities."

"We also have Indigenous staff who make sure the science we bring truly aligns with Indigenous knowledge and perspectives," Kerton said.

Devin, 14, is the owner of Devin's Dynamic Designs, selling 3D printed items.

"I've always been interested in 3D printers. I decided to raise some money and bought my first one. Then, with support from locals, I was able to grow the business and buy some licenses for all different products so I could do it legally, and now it's taken off," he said.

Devin said being invited by Science North to participate in the carnival was a great honor.

"There's a lot of science behind 3D printing technology. It takes a lot of work, and you need to learn some things to use the printer," he said.

Source:  https://www.tbnewswatch.com/success/thirteenth-annual-science-north-carnival-inspires-young-people-10272407