BENDIGO’S Petina Blackwell is one of four Australians selected to represent Girl Guides Australia at the Copenhagen climate change summit.
Ms Blackwell has been involved in guiding for the past 14 years and is the assistant manager for the Olave Program, in which she teaches women aged 18 to 30 about environmental issues.
After a long selection process, Ms Blackwell, 25, was rewarded for her efforts by being chosen as a representative in Copenhagen.
“We went through a selection process to explain our interest in the program and what we’d be able to offer to the delegate in Copenhagen,” she said.
As a result, Ms Blackwell has demonstrated that she is passionate about working to combat climate change.
“I think it is the biggest issue facing humanity,” she said.
However, her concern about the effects of climate change is also reflected by the guides’ programs.
“We build our programs upon smart environmental decisions,” she said.
“The core fundamental part of guiding is the outdoors and to respect the environment.”
Ms Blackwell will be in Copenhagen throughout the climate change summit from December 7 to 18.
“I see it as being a voice for the Australian people. I want to try and help people know that their actions can make a difference,” she said.