Two six-graders who aspire to change the world, will attend a United Nations environmental youth conference next week in Norway.

Jahmali Bridgewater, 10, and Noah Marshall, 11, were selected among 11 worthy applicants to attend the 2008 Tunza International Children's Conference, organised by the United Nations Environment Programme, from June 17 to 21.

Both young men submitted an essay to the Bermuda Zoological Society (BZS), and while Jahmali started an ecological club at his school, Noah was able to conduct an experiment at home to secure his spot at the conference. "These two students were chosen for their strong applications and their interest in learning more about protecting the environment," said BZS Education Officer Joseph Furbert. "We congratulate them and wish them an enjoyable and productive trip overseas."

The conference aims to get children to "think globally and act locally" and does so by increasing their understanding of environmental challenges.

This is the fourth conservation conference attended by Bermudian students through the BZS and the Stempel Foundation. The Royal Gazette talked to the two students before they departed on their journey, and both were keen to learn more about environmental conservation.

Jahmali, from Gilbert Institute, was particularly excited to learn how to make a mini-solar water heater.

He said: "I want to learn how Bermuda can improve to help its environment, how to use solar power instead of wasting energy and oil."

Noah, from Warwick Academy, was excited to learn about Norwegian culture and meet children from around the world, but also wanted to learn about preservation.

He said: "(I want to) try to change the environment, change the world and make a difference because it helps everyone and helps every living thing."