2023 Fulbright Canada Colloquium

CHALLENGES TO DEMOCRACY: Political Polarization, Sustaining Multi-Ethnic Democracies, economic inequality, democratic discontent, and populism.

Ray and Isabelle were panelists in the Youth Panel, "Youth Navigating a Divisive and Changing World." They were joined by two student leaders, Desi Shaw and Georges Gave, from Shawnigan Lake School. The panel explored the tapestry of issues facing our democratic system uniquely from a youth lens. Specifically, the youth discussed the influence of social media, education, and youth in leadership.

The use of technology and social media has completely altered the way we consume and interact with information. Youth are exposed to global issues at a formative age, with the pressure to engage and take sides in a politically correct manner or risk being “cancelled”. As the space for nuanced dialogue becomes lost online, the materials and pedagogy within the classroom have also come under intense scrutiny.

Our founders Ray Zhang and Isabelle Wang were honoured to be invited to participate in Fulbright Canada’s 2023 4th Colloquium series held at the University of Hawaiʻi at Manoa from October 26th - 27th, 2023.  

At the colloquium, Thrive Refuge shared its mission in the context of the global democratic landscape. In a society fragmented by political polarization, racial discrimination, and economic tensions, we need unifying sources. Our mission is grounded in the belief that artistic expression, whether it be music or art, is vital in reminding us of our collective humanity and combatting our divides.

Sasha Luchkov’s story is only one example of how the music can be used to unify people together. Faced with the inhumane reality of the Russo-Ukraine War, Thrive Refuge was able to support Sasha’s arrival to Canada, allowing him to continue his academic and musical studies at Shawnigan Lake School and then at the University of British Columbia.

Following the Colloquium, Thrive Refuge only continues its unwavering commitment to unity. In the spirit of democracy, we believe that everyone is deserving of equal opportunities to thrive and find their voice.