ODAIG’s showcase of Experiential Learning at the AEE Conference in Hong Kong.

The SUSS Outdoor Adventure Interest Group (ODAIG) recently made its mark on the global stage at the Association for Experiential Learning (AEE) Conference in Hong Kong. Representing the club, Wong Si Hui, a Year 4 Social Work student, and Wong Tze Xiang, a Year 4 Business Analytics student, presented how ODAIG has leveraged experiential learning to create meaningful service initiatives, particularly through its long-standing collaboration with the Children’s Cancer Foundation Singapore (CCF).

As Wong Si Hui and Wong Tze Xiang presented, participants like outdoor education providers and professionals in fields like education and outdoor education paid close attention.

The AEE Conference, a premier event for experiential learning practitioners, provided a unique platform for Si Hui and Tze Xiang to share ODAIG’s efforts in integrating outdoor education with service learning. Their presentation highlighted the impact of these initiatives, with personal stories of engagement that moved audience members to tears.

Wong Si Hui, Year 4, Social Work student, sharing about the application of empathy mapping in the planning process to make the games more suitable for the youths.

For Wong Si Hui, the conference was an invaluable opportunity to learn from outdoor educators and experts, gaining insights into how experiential learning can be effectively used to engage children and youth. "One of the most memorable moments during the conference was hearing the different stories and successes of how experiential learning, especially in outdoor settings, has contributed to service learning," she shared. "It was impactful to understand how the integration of community and the outdoors can significantly enhance personal development and service learning."

Wong Tze Xiang, Year 4, Business Analytics student, sharing about the Children Cancer Foundation Singapore.

Wong Tze Xiang, who initially felt nervous about presenting to an audience with working professionals, embraced the challenge and gained invaluable insights from the experience. "You miss every shot you don’t take," he said, reflecting on the importance of stepping out of his comfort zone. One of the most memorable moments for him was the emotional response from the audience when he and Si Hui shared personal stories of their successful interactions with youths through ODAIG’s CCF initiatives.

A group photo of SUSS students and faculty to mark the end of the event.

Their achievement at the conference would not have been possible without the unwavering support of the ODAIG community. From past and present EXCOs to dedicated members, ODAIG’s strength lies in its collective passion for outdoor learning and service. The club’s culture of support has enabled students like Si Hui and Tze Xiang to take on leadership roles and drive impactful collaborations. "The ODAIG community supported me by always having people who are ready to step up and help me with new initiatives or collaborations," Tze Xiang shared.

As ODAIG continues to grow, it remains committed to fostering outdoor experiences that inspire and empower. With each initiative, the club strengthens its mission of using the outdoors as a platform for meaningful learning and community impact.

Read more about our journey of working with Children’s Cancer Foundation Singapore (CCF):

2022: Hiking with a Purpose

2023: A Special Amazing Race Edition for Youths!