The Bondar Challenge

Attention Parents! Does your kid enjoy photography? Do they enjoy nature? Are they eager to exercise their skills while learning in a fun and positive environment? We have the perfect opportunity for you!

The Riverview Park & Zoo (RPZ) and Otonabee Conservation are pleased to announce that we have teamed up to bring you The Virtual Bondar Challenge Summer Camp. 

Registration for The Bondar Challenge Virtual Summer Camp Program is now open.  Two sessions are being offered, one in July and one in August. Please note, a virtual orientation session will be held at 11 am on the first day of the camp:

• July 12 - 23, 2021

• August 9 - 20,  2021

The Bondar Challenge, developed by The Roberta Bondar Foundation, teaches youth about their natural environment through the art of photography. Over the course of twelve days, participants will learn a variety of photography techniques, ranging from basic to advanced, through the Google Classroom on-line forum.

Participants will then have the opportunity to apply these skills as they explore the scenic environments in their own backyard, neighbourhood, on local trails, in parks, or conservation areas with their friends and family.

A series of weekly challenges and prizes encourages participants to spend time outside capturing the beauty of flora and fauna in our local environment. At the end of this program, participants will choose their best photograph for submission to The Roberta Bondar Foundation. A panel of judges will evaluate photographs submitted by youth from across Canada, to select winning photographs for the summer of 2021. Winners will have their photograph featured on The Roberta Bondar Foundation’s website and will be awarded a variety of prizes.

This virtual summer camp program can be completed over the course of 12 days. It includes approximately 3 hours of computer time and 3 to 6 hours of outdoor photography while exploring nature on your own schedule.

New in 2021: We have also added live on line orientation and celebration sessions at the beginning and end of camp. We will also have inspiring guest speakers to share their expert tips!

Sign up for just one of the camps or both, as fresh new challenges and guest speakers will keep interest of the young photographers and allow them to hone their skills!

For more information email connect@riverviewparkandzoo.ca or call us at 705-748-9301 ex: 2304, available 9 am-4 pm Monday to Friday.