2025 RS Conference: Michael Ham Memorial College, Argentina

School: Michael Ham Memorial College
Location: Buenos Aires, Argentina
Title: Together for a Better Tomorrow
Theme: Environmentalism, Service, Internationalism, Leadership, Adventure
Age Group: 15–17 years
Dates: 6–11 May 2025

Earlier this month, Michael Ham Memorial College in Buenos Aires, Argentina proudly hosted an inspiring Round Square Conference, bringing together 68 students and 16 teachers from 10 schools representing eight countries: Germany, United Arab Emirates, Canada, USA, Chile, Ecuador, Peru, and Argentina. Under the powerful theme, “Together for a Better Tomorrow,” the week-long event focused on the Round Square IDEALS of Environmentalism, Service, Internationalism, Leadership, and Adventure.

Here’s a round up of the week in numbers:

• 8 countries represented
• 10 participating schools
• 68 student delegates – 46 from overseas
• 16 accompanying teachers
• 22 Michael Ham students involved as hosts and organisers
• 3 music groups featured during the opening and closing ceremonies
• 1 cultural presentation day – Argentina, My Country, led by Year 4 students
• 5 IDEALS explored – Environmentalism, Service, Internationalism, Leadership, Adventure
• 22 homestays warmly welcomed international visitors
• 100% of students rated the experience as “excellent” or “very good”

From the opening ceremony onwards, the atmosphere at this Round Square Conference was warm and welcoming. Student hosts led musical performances and cultural showcases that celebrated Argentina’s vibrant heritage. “You learn how to communicate better and feel like you’re part of something bigger — part of the change,” said one student. “I made so many new friends. If I had the chance to do it all over again, I absolutely would,” shared another.

Throughout the week, students explored key global challenges through a series of engaging Baraza sessions. Environmentalism took centre stage with hands-on workshops and a visit to a local sustainability initiative. In particular, one powerful service activity, saw students support Akamasoa – a non-profit organization in Lima, Buenos Aires, where a community is being built through a solidarity movement. This experience challenged students to reflect on social responsibility and the power of collective action.

“I learned that, as a community, we have a responsibility to keep both the Earth and our local communities as healthy as possible. That means making time to physically help the environment and committing to making a difference – in any way we can,” one student reflects. “I learned that small actions, like reducing plastic use and saving energy, can make a big difference when enough people commit to them,” said another.

As a result, personal growth was clear. Over 90% of students reported feeling more open to other cultures, while more than 80% said they gained confidence. Student leaders took on roles as translators, facilitators, and cultural ambassadors – experiences that strengthened empathy, initiative, and leadership.

Meanwhile, teachers and delegates praised the event’s seamless organisation and inspiring atmosphere. One teacher shared:

“A heartfelt thank you to Michael Ham Memorial College for opening not just the doors of their school, but also their hearts to us. It was truly inspiring to see students from such diverse backgrounds come together so naturally. The thoughtfully planned activities encouraged real connection, responsibility, and a shared commitment to building a better future.”

Finally, the week ended with celebration and reflection, but the impact will be long-lasting. As one participant summed it up: “I loved how we all worked together, no matter where we were from or who we were. It didn’t matter – we were united.”

Host’s Round Square Conference Video

Watch the host’s conference video below: