Conference for the Arts 2026 | Association of China and Mongolia International Schools

ACAMIS Conference for the Arts

Saturday & Sunday, April 25-26, 2026

Shen Wai International School

Theme: EXPRESS - Expression to Empower and Inspire Through the Arts

Join us for the 2026 ACAMIS Conference for the Arts — a celebration of creativity, collaboration, and the transformative power of artistic expression. This year’s theme, EXPRESS, invites arts educators to explore how authentic expression can empower learners, inspire communities, and ignite change through the arts.

Through hands-on workshops, performances, and collaborative sessions, participants will delve into how expression fuels confidence, builds agency, and deepens connection — for both students and teachers. Together, we’ll examine how fostering expressive spaces allows the arts to thrive as a vehicle for empathy, inclusion, and innovation in our schools.

Let’s come together to express, empower, and inspire — shaping a future where creativity leads the way.

Host School

Shen Wai International School (SWIS) is a leading international school located in the scenic surroundings of Shenzhen Bay, Shenzhen. Known for its refined architecture, green campus, and state-of-the-art facilities, SWIS offers a vibrant and inspiring environment for students from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12.
As a CIS and WASC accredited IB World School, SWIS delivers the Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, and Diploma Programme with excellence. Our diverse team of internationally certified educators brings global expertise and a passion for nurturing creativity, inquiry, and intercultural understanding.
At the heart of our educational philosophy is our mission: Shen Wai International School develops confident, open-minded, lifelong learners and inspires students to take action as responsible global citizens.

Daniel Legault

Head of School

Shen Wai International School

No. 29, Baishi 3rd Road, Nanshan, Shenzhen

186 8654 1200

Meet Our Planning Committee Team

Bec Alosi

International School of Tianjin

Bec has spent the past eight years in China working with students through the performing arts. With a background in theatre and creative production she brings energy and purpose to every project. Before moving to China Bec worked professionally in the Australian theatre scene, as an actor, producer and stage manager, even helping to start independent theatre company “Grey Lantern” to bring niche quirky performances to Australian audiences. Bec is a long-standing member of the ACAMIS Arts Committee and is looking forward to welcoming member new and old to this year’s conference.

Gloria Carnevale

International School of Nanshan Shenzhen

Gloria Carnevale is a Canadian/Italian artist, educator, designer, and curator based in Shenzhen, China since 2012. She is the Head of Visual Arts and Design at the International School of Nanshan Shenzhen and a founding member of ISZAF (International Shenzhen Artist Forum). She has presented at TEDx, ARWAE, GATE, PechaKucha, EdTechGZ, and ACAMIS conferences. As an active artist, she explores mixed media, printmaking, and photography in bold, playful ways. Her work delves into themes of identity through repetition, texture, vibrant color, and a mix of satire and sincerity. She has exhibited at the Shenzhen International Art Fair, Art Canton, Hong Kong Affordable Art Fair, and more.

Kimberly Jones

Shanghai Singapore International School

Kimberly Jones is a dedicated arts educator with 17 years of experience, including a transformative decade teaching in China. She is deeply passionate about the arts' unique power to foster students' confidence, empathy, and social-emotional growth. With a rich background in Theatre, English, and inclusive education, Kimberly is committed to creating dynamic and accessible learning environments for all. She is thrilled to join the ACAMIS conference to collaborate with fellow educators and champion the vital role of arts education worldwide.

Madeleine du Toit

Shen Wai International School

Madeleine du Toit is a music educator and performer who believes that community and creativity are essential pathways to wellness. She teaches in the PYP section at Shen Wai International School (SWIS), where she also serves as Co-Curricular Arts Coordinator and co-conductor of the Strings Orchestra. Drawing on her earlier postgraduate research into flow experiences in community orchestras, she continues to explore how shared musical nurture well-being. Madeleine performs with the folk band Roaming Nomads and serves on the board of the Shekou International Singers, fostering inclusive engagement in the arts.

Mike Mchugh

Nanjing International School

Mike McHugh is a music teacher, director and vocal coach with over 25 years working in the fields of education and entertainment. Through prior posts as a Secondary Music teacher in the United States, Europe and Asia, as well as time spent in both performing and directing roles for the Universal Studios family of theme parks, Mr. McHugh has witnessed time and time again the power of music and the arts in promoting the personal growth, shared connections and mental/emotional well-being of thousands of people, from students to young professionals to families and audiences around the world.

Sarah Firestone

Keystone Academy

Sarah Firestone is an experienced educator and passionate leader currently serving as the Secondary Activities Director at Keystone Academy in Beijing. With 10 years of international teaching experience in Abu Dhabi and Beijing, Sarah has primarily focused on middle school education in various roles. She is dedicated to supporting teachers and students, ensuring they have the resources and support needed for success. Sarah's commitment extends to fostering professional growth among teachers, equipping them with effective strategies and up-to-date knowledge to provide the best education and experiences for their students. She is excited to contribute to the team's efforts in planning this valuable professional development opportunity.