Once she completed her arts studies at Laurentian University, Kayla Cornthwaite was eager to “do something interesting.”

The 22-year-old found just what she was looking for in The Otesha Project. The Ottawa-based not-for-profit organization “creates opportunities for people to be the change they want to see in the world through bicycle and performing tours.”

Cornthwaite will be on a bike from Sept. 3 to Oct. 24, travelling throughout western Canada, performing a scripted play about sustainable living at area schools.

The production has a sustainability focus, which is something important to Cornthwaite. The Hanmer native is a supporter of the “environmental movement,” she said.

To prepare for the trip, she has been reading over the script she'll perform alongside the other participants from around the world, and riding her bike at every opportunity.

“(The trip) is definitely going to be a physical challenge,” she said.

Fundraising is a vital part of the trip, since it is spearheaded by a non-profit group. In order to participate, Cornthwaite has to raise $2,250.

Anyone interested in supporting her is invited to make a donation at www.canadahelps.com. Donation receipts will be given to those who donate $20 or more.

For more information about the project, visit www.otesha.ca.

- Posted by Laurel Myers