Isaac Richman leads a science-based workshop near Prince Rupert, BC, as part of Let’s Talk Science Outreach.
On a rainy spring morning, UBC Okanagan’s Alexandra Appleby pulled up to a rural school in northern BC with a car packed full of science supplies—markers, straws, ping pong balls—and a passion for sharing what she loves.
For two weeks, Appleby and Isaac Richman led free, hands-on science-based workshops at schools in and around Prince Rupert, BC, and the Nisga’a Nation as part of the Let’s Talk Science outreach program.
The regular, off-campus excursions are designed to support all students in remote areas.
“This kind of opportunity can shape a child’s education,” says Tanja Voegel, site coordinator for Let’s Talk Science Outreach at UBC Okanagan. “We know how powerful it is when students see that science isn’t just something in a textbook—it’s fun, it’s creative and it’s for everyone.”
Let’s Talk Science is a national charitable organization that engages youth in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), building their skills, curiosity and confidence.
Since launching its UBCO chapter in 2018, the outreach program has grown rapidly, reaching thousands of students in classrooms and community centres across the BC interior.
Their trip covered roughly 2,000 kilometres, during which they visited eight schools and a public library, connecting with nearly 1,000 youth from kindergarten to Grade 7.
At each stop, the team delivered interactive activities such as:
- pollination simulations using bee puppets and cake mix
- bridge-building challenges with folded paper and pennies
- physics experiments testing rotor design and balance
- biology-based games exploring bird beak adaptations with spoons, tweezers and pipettes
“Students were engaged from the minute we walked in,” says Appleby. “One teacher told us it was the best science class their students had all year. Another gave us smoked salmon as a thank-you. That really stuck with me.”
These visits do more than spark excitement and a change of pace—they give teachers practical support to keep students engaged.
“Some teachers told us they don’t have the time, training or resources to cover science in depth,” Appleby says. “We bring supplies, fun activities and energy to help jumpstart those conversations.”
Voegel adds that building and maintaining strong partnerships with remote schools is key. “We don’t just visit once—we stay in touch, send materials and return if we can. We want all youth, no matter where they live, to have access to meaningful STEM experiences.”
Let’s Talk Science Outreach at UBC Okanagan is powered by dedicated student staff and volunteers like Appleby, who started planning the trip in January 2025 after stepping into her role as Volunteer and Community Engagement Coordinator the previous fall.
“I kept my options open, said yes to the opportunity, and it’s been one of the most rewarding things I’ve done,” she says. “The youth make you bracelets, draw you pictures, and you see their curiosity light up. That’s something I’ll carry with me, wherever I go.”
Let’s Talk Science Outreach offers free, curriculum-aligned STEM activities to schools, libraries and community groups across the BC’s interior and beyond. The team offers both in-person and virtual workshops year-round.
Workshops are hands-on, inclusive, and adaptable to many learning environments. Volunteers and coordinators are trained and supported by national and local teams.
To learn more, visit letstalkscience.ca.
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Let’s Talk Science engages youth in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), building their skills, curiosity and confidence.
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