Iris Goldsmith died in a tragic accident on her family farm at the age of 15 on 8th of July 2019. Iris had a deep and lifelong connection with the natural world, a gentle way with animals of all kinds, and a particular reverence for the sea. Iris well understood that finding harmony with nature is the overriding purpose of humanity – and she took every opportunity to do her bit. Before leaving any beach or wild space she visited Iris always made a point of organising the people she was with to clear the litter from one end to the other. The Iris Project seeks to empower young people of Iris’ age in their own efforts to restore and protect nature, and eventually become the environmental guardians of where they live!
The Iris Project initiative is being implemented simultaneously by various members of the Conservation Collective (an international network of environmental foundations, of which the Cyclades Preservation Fund is a member) in line with our mission to support local environmental ‘champions’ who can bring long-term positive change in their local communities with appropriate support!
About the competition
The competition is open to all high school students living in the Cyclades (with permission of their parent or guardian). To ender they must create a video lasting up to three minutes highlighting an environmental issue that concerns them and their island as well as proposing a solution to tackle it!
If you are interested please fill in this application form by May 31st, 2021 (new, extended deadlines!) and submit your video by July 10th, 2021 via email: ifigeneia@cycladespreservationfund.org
The winner will be announced by the Cyclades Preservation Fund in early August 2021 and will be given the opportunity to work with a professional filmmaker on a short film to inspire action on his/her island!
Anyone who takes part will be eligible for nomination for the Iris Prize, a global award scheme that supports young people in their efforts to protect and restore their local natural environments. Successful candidates will receive financial support and mentoring to help establish their environmental initiatives, and to inspire others around the world to do the same.
To read about the competition in Greek, please see the PDF below!