This article is part of our Youth Voices series. At Ten Strands we believe that young people have valuable perspectives and a critical role in shaping our society and our world. We recognize their power to drive dialogue and create positive change and are committed to providing a platform which amplifies their contributions.
What does it mean to be a youth climate leader, and why is youth leadership for the environment important to you?
To me, a youth climate leader is someone who puts in passion, time, and energy toward rallying efforts against climate change. Growing up in a time where the future is unclear, it is a difficult decision for our youth to either be part of the change or sit back and watch it occur without them. Youth leadership will continuously be the key to societal changes because of their relentless hope, determination, and eagerness. Youth have a rare ability to connect and rally generations toward a common goal, and to mitigate this climate crisis, youth leadership is more important now than ever.
Why did you want to pursue an internship with Ten Strands, and what was your experience during your internship with Ten Strands? Additionally, in what ways do you hope your internship made an impact?
I wanted to pursue an internship that incorporates the climate movement with society, and Ten Strands offers an invaluable opportunity to do just that. I loved my experience this summer during my internship because it allowed me to work on projects that have tangible impacts on individuals. Every coworker I interacted with was incredibly welcoming and kind, and all have a similar passion for the environment. Whether it was a little question or a longer meeting, my supervisors and coworkers went about our projects with care and determination. Like them, I want to pursue every position I have in the future with this type of work ethic and kindness.
In what ways do you hope your internship made an impact?
I hope the tasks my co-intern and I worked on instill in students a similar passion for the environment as we both have. Creating the foundation for the second cohort of the California Youth Climate Policy Leadership Program has been incredibly rewarding because it fosters an environment to nurture confident and driven leaders. I hope they know they can achieve great things for this important movement.
Do you plan on pursuing environmentalism as a career?
I plan to pursue a career in climate investing, specifically in renewable energy. My ideal job combines the different components of my majors at Williams College, economics and environmental studies. I want to help the environment in an industry with the potential to create significant results.
What advice would you give to young and aspiring climate leaders?
Although the future of this crisis is uncertain, your efforts are not meaningless. It is easy to lose hope when dealing with these issues and experience confusing emotions, but that is why youth leaders are so important. Make your voices heard and find ways to help no matter how small.
