Vernon Explorers at FLL Explore

The Vernon Explorers, consisting of five talented members—Will, Arjun, Oscar, Porter, and Jackson—participated in the FLL Explore category. This was a historic moment, as it marked the first time an FLL Explore event was held in the Okanagan region. The theme for this year, SUBMERGED℠, challenged teams to explore the layers of the ocean and imagine innovative solutions for ocean exploration and conservation.

A Journey of Discovery and Innovation

The Vernon Explorers embraced the FLL Core Values throughout their journey:

• Discovery: They explored new skills and ideas.
• Innovation: They used creativity and persistence to solve problems.
• Impact: They applied their learnings to improve the world.
• Inclusion: They respected each other and embraced their differences.
• Teamwork: They worked together to achieve their goals.
• Fun: They celebrated every step of the process!

Their Project: An Ocean Exploration Station

The team built a model of an ocean exploration station designed for scientists studying the ocean. Their innovative design included a LEGO propeller to help the station float and a microplastic cleanup feature that collects and transfers microplastics into a bin. This creative solution demonstrated their understanding of real-world environmental challenges.

Discovering a New Species

As part of their project, the team identified an imaginary marine species called the “Green Glowing One-Eyed Fish” in the Abyss Zone. They created detailed notes, discussions, and even built an artificial habitat for their newfound species. Their enthusiasm and creativity were truly inspiring!

Event Day: A Day to Remember

On February 8th, the Vernon Explorers arrived at the University of British Columbia, Okanagan (UBCO), ready to showcase their hard work. With the help of the fantastic event coordinator, Tobias Blaskovits, the team set up their presentation table and participated in various STEM activities. They also had the opportunity to interact with teams from Kelowna and Kamloops.

When the judges visited their table, the Vernon Explorers confidently explained their project, sharing their learning experiences with enthusiasm. Their hard work paid off when they were awarded the Team Model Award, a testament to their creativity and teamwork. The day ended with pride and joy as the team celebrated their well-deserved recognition.