When did you first realize climate change was affecting the world or your community?
I started noticing how much hotter summers felt and how often people were talking about heat warnings. There were days when being outside for sports or even walking somewhere felt miserable. It made climate change feel less like a future problem.
What inspired you to take action for the planet?
Part of it is honestly frustration. I don’t want to feel like I’m just watching things get worse. Even if what I do is small, taking action makes me feel like I’m doing something instead of only being angry.
How has climate change affected your family, school, or hometown?
At school, there have been days when practices had to be changed or moved because it was too hot outside. That makes me angry because things that should be normal parts of being a teenager are getting affected by something we didn’t create.
What would you tell your younger self—or someone just starting to learn about the climate crisis?
I would tell them that being angry is okay, but don’t let the anger make you feel hopeless. Use it as motivation to learn more, speak up, and find other people who care.
Share about your community. How does leaning into your community help yourself and others build resilience?
Being around other people who care makes a big difference. When everyone brings their own ideas or does one small thing, it feels more possible than trying to fix everything yourself.
