Lakes District Secondary School鈥檚 Grade 9 student, Rheanna Leith from 亚洲天堂 Lake, participated in the MILSET Expo-Sciences International (ESI) 2023 at the UPAEP Convention Center in Puebla, Mexico.

Leith was among the approximately 30 Canadian students 鈥� all previous Canada-Wide Science Fair finalists, attended the science exhibition from Oct. 21 to 27.

Her project was called 鈥楬ow the Pandemic Affects Your Mental Health,鈥� it was based on research, hypothesis, observations, acknowledgments and more.

Five other students from different schools in British Columbia also participated in this, apart from her.

The ESI happens every two years, and students from more than 30 countries participate.

Raya Leith, her mother, said her daughter has always wanted to spread her message to the world and travel abroad.

鈥淭his was an amazing opportunity, and Rheanna will inspire others to pursue science and dreams.鈥�

Mike Skinner, Assistant Superintendent of School District 91 (SD91), said Leith was not representing LDSS or SD91 while attending the MILSET ESI.

鈥淪he is participating as a community member with the support from her parents. Many of the youth in the district are involved in community groups and take part in events outside of public school. It is always great to see young people pursuing their passions.鈥�

The non-competitive international exhibition focused on bringing together and encouraging students to showcase the creativity of aspiring young scientists and highlighting scientific innovation.

All expenses, including accommodation, ground transportation, and meals, were covered by the National Network of Youth Activities in Science and Technology, REDMex, during her stay for the science exhibition.

The participants came home with the most prestigious award, ESI, Best Delegation award.