Originally, when I was debating on which topic I hoped to speak, I kept on circling back to who my audience was. Knowing that I would have the opportunity to give a message to such a diverse set of people from all around the world, I was quickly drawn to examining the concept of climate change along with generational anxiety that surrounds the topic.
Through my own personal experiences becoming involved with Go Greenish, it has successfully broken down various stereotypes that have been set on young people. Oftentimes, we feel as if we are expected to “invent something crazy” that can produce sizable changes for it to still actually be change. Through my presentation, I was able to further dismantle this rhetoric and push forth the notion that small actions, when multiplied by many people, have the potential to make a difference.
During my TEDx style presentation, I dove into the basics of the topic that is very close to my heart: embracing sustainability and active change in the face of the climate crisis. I discussed that, at least in my perspective, for a large number of teenagers the urgency of climate change can feel overwhelming. With this in mind, I was able to simplify our role in this global challenge, making it feel more manageable and less daunting.
To begin, I emphasized strong sustainable habits such as learning how to properly sort waste, trash, and recycling– visually depicting the correct procedures to audience members. Additionally, I discussed other factors such as thrift shopping, using clean sources of energy e.g. solar, wind power, switching from plastic/paper plates and cutlery to reusable and many more alternatives to current unviable lifestyles. Throughout the presentation, I captured the idea that even if each of us goes on to take one or two of these habits, it can show great impacts.
Towards the end of my presentation, I was able to promote the organization’s goal as a whole dedicated towards climate advocacy as well as education in schools, promoting sustainable habits. More specifically, I went on to discuss the potential for global partners through our Greenish Schools Initiative Framework and District Climate Action Handbook for implementing change in school districts.
To my surprise, I had many other fellow students stay after the Speaker Series to learn more about the organization as a whole or my personal philosophy on the concept. It was so incredible and inspiring to hear other global perspectives on this topic and be able to bring awareness and attention to this issue worldwide.
I am proud to say that I genuinely feel successful at giving this message to each of the 300 students, advocating for them to look into their personal sustainable habits. From waste sorting or advancing their own education, I brought forward the idea that these actions are critical to ensure a better future for us. Because truly we really are the future of this global generation.