Crystal World Founder Invited to Judge Global Natural History Day in Shanghai

Crystal World founder Tom Kapitany is currently in Shanghai after being invited to judge the 2026 Global Natural History Day, an international science education program encouraging young students to explore and communicate their knowledge of the natural world.

Held at Shanghai University, the event brings together students from across China, with more than 1,000 students taking part. Tom and the other judges assessed science performances, exhibitions and student presentations based around this year’s theme, “Past, Present and Future.” Judges questioned students about their chosen subjects, testing both their scientific knowledge and their ability to communicate their research in English.

Tom has supported the program as a volunteer for many years and also assists with its fundraising efforts. The event continues the legacy of its founder, Ken Behring, who established Global Natural History Day to encourage young people to develop an interest in science and the natural world.

The trip has taken an unexpected turn, however, with Typhoon Dolphin bringing severe weather and major transport disruptions to Shanghai. Flights and trains have been cancelled, and the planned student medal ceremony was called off. Despite the disruption, Tom has enjoyed being part of the judging and seeing the enthusiasm and knowledge of the students taking part.