ROHINI DIKSHIT

Chennai, India

Rohini is a third-year Development Studies student in the integrated MA Program at the Department of Humanities and Social Sciences at Indian Institute of Technology in Madras, India. Living in India, Rohini has witnessed countless conflicts resulting from the clash between the pursuit of economic development and conservation of nature, and has formed a commitment to fighting for the environment. Through her extensive travel around the country, Rohini has observed the variations in environmental politics and realized the importance of policy implementation involving all stakeholders. She is passionate about sustainability, urban governance, environmental justice, and conscious consumerism. In her free time, she enjoys music, reading, learning new languages, and trying out new egg recipes.

Why do you think it is important to share broad perspectives on global issues like climate change?
“Climate change is an issue that transcends all political boundaries and social divisions, and must be tackled at a transnational level. At the same time, while climate change is a global issue, its manifestations and effects are not identical or uniform. By sharing perspectives, we can attempt to form plans of action that are, to an extent, universally applicable as well as mindful of local contexts.”

Why are you committed to environmental and social justice?
“India is a developing country rife with social inequalities. I have witnessed countless conflicts resulting from the clash between the pursuit of economic development and conservation of nature. As the country is home to numerous tribes and communities acutely dependent on forests, all environmental injustice inevitably becomes social injustice. Having observed the same, I am simply unable to see not being committed to environmental and social justice as an option. Not only does it potentially have immediate repercussions on my life, but is an issue that is pertinent to humanity’s survival and long-term standard of living.”

What are you most looking forward to as you are joining the PGCourse global community?
“I am looking forward to gaining insights from a diverse group and broadening my view of environmental change. Perspectives from various fields and varying corners of the globe would help me build well-rounded knowledge of how humankind’s relationship with nature operates and how it can be sustained.”

How can students be change makers around environmental and social justice activism?
“Today’s students have realized that they cannot wait till they are older to demand changes, especially when environmental change could lead to a situation where the possibility of growing old is diminished. The perceived lack of partisanism among the youth and the shunning of attempts to be diplomatic in their language forces people to listen to the voices of students. Initiatives such as ‘Fridays for Future,’ the ability to mobilize on social media, and access to more knowledge have allowed students to thrive as change makers for environmental and social justice activism.”

AMARACHI ONYENA

Lagos, Nigeria

Amarachi Paschaline Onyena is a third-year Ph.D. student and lecturer at University of Lagos in Nigeria, and consultant to companies and government institutions eager to explore water sustainability and contamination assessment methods and standards. Amarachi is passionate about the use of innovation, standards, science, and technology for effective and efficient water quality and environmental management, as affected by anthropogenic stressors and other contaminants, to curb the adverse effects on ecology, socio-economic values, and health of marine life and society. She is experienced and involved in education and advocacy to protect marine ecosystems, resources and vulnerable species. Amarachi focuses her research and teaching around marine pollution studies, ecotoxicology, biomonitoring, benthic ecology, ecosystem health, water risk assessment, marine biology, and marine genomics. During her free time, apart from cooking, she loves to visit friends, watch television and listen to inspirational talks and songs.

How can students be changemakers around environmental and social justice activism?
“Youth are the backbone of any nation in the path of water and environmental sustainability. Students can engage the international environmental community and civil society networks and establish a range of platforms for student participation. They can collaborate with organizations to promote youth inclusion and engagement in the path of environmental sustainability.”

Why are you committed to environmental and social justice? 
“I am particularly committed to improved involvement of the masses in advocacy for a green ecosystem and enforcement and regulations on environmental issues.”

How do you hope PGCourse will contribute to your personal empowerment, education, and mobilization on issues you care about?
“PGCourse would build my knowledge and capacity in diverse transboundary environmental issues. The Course intends to communicate better methods and recommendations for monitoring environmental case studies. In addition, the skills acquired will be used in research and community development in Nigeria Maritime University, as a lecturer, as well as enhance my career development and function effectively in my Ph.D. research work.”

What is the best advice you have received during your journey as an activist?
“Be resilient and never lose focus in achieving your visions and aspirations.”

ANYI CASTELBLANCO

Bogotá, Colombia

Anyi is currently a student of Political Ecology and alternatives to development from the Andina Simón Bolívar University in Ecuador. She has a degree in pedagogy and education with an emphasis in Social Sciences from the Francisco José de Caldas District University and is also an anthropologist from the National University of Colombia. She belongs to the Culture and Environment research group of the National University of Colombia, having conducted research on conflicts over water access and distribution and mining extractivism in Colombia. Outside of her academic involvements, she has worked with rural and indigenous communities for territorial control, community environmental monitoring, advocacy and defense of the peasant means of life, agroecology, women’s rights, and environmental democratization. To relax, she likes to listen to the water, knit, and ride her bicycle.

Why are you committed to environmental and social justice?
“I live on this planet and it’s my home. I think it is very important that we reconsider our relationship with the environment and the problems that development has created on our Earth. It’s really different — the problems in the Global South and the Global North. And I live in Colombia, a beautiful country that faces a lot of environmental impact. It refers not only to the extractivism problems, but also conservational models.”

Why do you think it is important to share broad perspectives on global issues like climate change?
“Because we have different experiences and alternatives to climate change, it’s really important that we share our perspectives. And this diagnosis will allow us to think of alternatives and solutions.”

How can students be changemakers around environmental and social justice activism?
“I think we need to share knowledge in equal conditions. That is the best way to do activism.”

What is an environmental issue that you are particularly passionate about and why?
“I’m passionate about water and all of the problems and alternatives. I have been studying this topic since my degree and always ask about relationships with water.”

CAESAR BELCHEZ  

Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania, USA

Caesar is in his final semester at Montgomery County Community College in Blue Bell, Pennsylvania, completing his Associate’s Degree in Public Health. On campus, he was involved with Phi Theta Kappa, International Club, the Environmental Sustainability Club, and the President’s Sustainability Council, which is the college’s advisory council to assess the college’s carbon footprint and implement sustainable practices in policies. He is passionate about social justice and looks forward to dedicating himself to advocacy in public and environmental health. On the side, Caesar volunteers as a cook one day a week, preparing and serving restaurant quality food for Philadelphia’s homeless and food-insecure communities.

Why do you think it is important to share broad perspectives on global issues like climate change?
“Radical change in climate is brought about by lifestyle, not by a single factor. Climate change is a complex set of equations whose every variable merits examination and reflection because of its impact on human life, not only in this age but for generations to come.”

Why are you committed to environmental and social justice? 
“Why do I care about my living space? Why do I care about others? The questions, to me, beg themselves. Inequity is a pathogen that eats at the heart of every thinking being, spreading itself to the greater living space that is ought to be shared by all. Inequity is the breeding ground for greed that tries to preserve itself at the expense of others, which ironically undermines the very preservation sought after.”

What do you hope to learn during this Course that will make a difference in your community?
“I hope to discover new insights, new ways of doing; I hope to see hopes rekindled, small endeavours embraced to encourage stewardship of one’s own local living space, and see it grow. Maybe I am a hopeless romantic. But I truly believe in this.”

How can students be changemakers around environmental and social justice activism?
“Preparation, preparation, preparation before engaging.  Study well, read more, listen and commit to heart. Repeat.  Activism is hollow without reflection.”

CECILIA BEGAL

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Cecilia is a third-year student at the University of Amsterdam in the Netherlands, majoring in Communication Science. Through her minor in International Development, she has the opportunity to deepen studies on topics such as sustainable mobility, international cooperation, and social justice, which she’s now very passionate about. She grew up in Italy, moved to Nova Scotia at 17, and finally to Amsterdam in 2019. Cecilia enjoys any kind of outdoor activity, such as kitesurfing, rock-climbing, and alpine skiing. Writing has always been her thing, and storytelling plays a key role in her life. She’s an attentive observer and a great listener, but most of all, she’s curious about pretty much anything around her. For her, being part of the PGC Class of 2021 represents the first step toward a future career in social and environmental justice. 

Why do you think it is important to share broad perspectives on global issues like climate change? 
“Media outlets deliver an ever-increasing number of multilayered, arguably-biased, and often contradictory pieces of information. As for climate change, we hear about melting glaciers, burning forests, and rising temperatures. But they are portrayed, I believe, in such a way that makes them look like disentangled, geographically and temporally dislocated, and nearly intangible phenomena. And that’s why, I fear, some people struggle to see the emergency, globality, and concreteness of the problem.”

Why are you committed to environmental and social justice? 
“Being a force of good has always been my ultimate impetus and objective. Any form of injustice, direct or indirect, sparks in me a sense of anger… Finally, my dad has always told me that nature doesn’t owe us anything, and I think people tend to easily forget. I feel a need to constantly remind them of their position and environmental impact, to make sure we all benefit from a greener planet, instead of a restricted elitist group.”

How do you hope the Course will contribute to your personal empowerment, education, and mobilization on issues you care about? 
“I think that PGCourse will be not only a learning opportunity, but also a revealing process that will help me focalize my energy, passion, and commitment. I believe we all have a rather narrow vision of the world, which is why I try to make a point of gathering and sharing as much information as possible about a widening range of topics. This way, I hope, I won’t only enrich myself, but will transmit values, knowledge, and ideas to many people. I believe that communication, collaboration, and valorization are essential qualities of a good leader.”

What is the best advice you have received during your journey as an activist? 
“‘Driving solo is not always bad. Sometimes you need to turn your back to others in order to lead everyone forward. Think about a conductor, playing for the public while looking at the orchestra. A leader, a visionary must show the path. The others will follow.’ This is probably the best piece of advice I received from my psychologist back in high school, as I was starting to realize that living and fighting for what I cared about also meant coexisting with eventual periods of solitude.”

CLINTON EZEIGWE

Abakaliki, Nigeria

Clinton is in his final year of law school at Ebonyi State University in Abakaliki, Nigeria, majoring in Environmental Law and Human Rights. He is also a community and civil society activist, and has been involved in volunteering and community development programs to use advocacy campaigns to influence political agendas related to international development. Clinton was the Sanitation and Water for All (SWA) Youth Reporter for 2020, where he worked with youth engagement in water, sanitation and hygiene issues. He is also coordinating the #ClaimYourWaterRights campaign in Nigeria, a global mobilization campaign that aims to awaken people to the injustice of their situation and spur them to claim their human rights to safe water and sanitation. Clinton is passionate about Human Rights and Environmental Justice and Sustainability and believes human rights are the best legal protection we have. He believes that as fellow global citizens, we owe it to ourselves to work together to protect our world ecosystems and build better standards of life today and for future generations.

Why are you committed to environmental and social justice?
“Protecting the Earth is imperative and environmental sustainability and stewardship is a collective responsibility. It is only through joint efforts at every level that we can bend the curve and protect our planet for future generations.”

What is an environmental issue that you are particularly passionate about and why? 
“I am passionate about plastic pollution and how we can reduce our reliance on plastic. Nigeria is on the United Nations’ list of top 10 biggest plastic polluters due to proliferation of plastic producing factories and increased demand for plastic products by the public. These increases have been implicated in environmental pollution, mostly in coastal states such as my state, Imo state, where littered plastic refuse on drains and dumps are washed into rivers, as well as direct dumping on rivers with non-biodegradable pollutants. Ocean health is vital to the overall health of the Earth and provides crucial resources for humans as well.”

Why do you think it is important to share broad perspectives on global issues like climate change?
“Action against climate change is not specific to individual subject areas. It is important to provide the opportunity to learn from each other, gain an understanding of global sustainable challenges, and acquire knowledge of many different local perspectives and solutions, which would in turn bring about changes in attitudes and behavior.”

How can students be changemakers around environmental and social justice activism? 
“Look through their own behavior and exert a positive influence on others around them. Students can also make impact through community-led activities and participate in decisions that impact their lives and drive change on issues that matter. Because young people represent the present and their contributions are essential to ensure climate resilient development for the future.”

DALTON ROBBERSON

Grand Junction, Colorado, USA

Dalton is a junior at Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction, Colorado, studying Environmental Science and Technology with a minor in Geographic Information Systems (GIS). He grew up in Denver, Colorado where he spent most of his childhood outdoors in the beautiful Rocky Mountains. Growing up in an area filled with outdoor tourism, he has seen the effects that people can have on the environment when left unchecked. He volunteers for the Outdoor Lab Foundation for a local school district in Denver, leading elementary students in outdoor education that is centered around sustainability, conservation, and stewardship. He was also an intern with the US Department of Agriculture and worked with the National Resource Conservation Service helping implement various conservation strategies in southern Oregon. While in college, he has begun to explore different paths of sustainability in water resources and forest conservation and hopes to become more involved as an activist in the water crisis facing the western US. In his free time, he enjoys camping, hiking, and skiing. 

Why do you think it is important to share broad perspectives on global issues like climate change?
“By listening to others and empathizing in their struggle, we can begin to work on strategies and solutions to help address everyone’s issues as a community with an overall goal of inclusivity. One group cannot solve all communities’ issues; there has to be some form of representation to ensure everyone’s needs are fulfilled.”

Why are you committed to environmental and social justice?
“I am committed to environmental and social justice because I would like to make a change. While many people say this, I have realized how short our time is on Earth and I would like to see my impact while I still can. My goal is to have lasting, positive change in the environment in one of the fields I’m passionate about.”

What is an environmental issue that you are particularly passionate about and why?
“I am particularly interested in the effects that climate change has had on the western United States. Extreme drought and heat conditions have led the way for overwhelming wildfires and an ever-growing water crisis. Being close to the headwaters of the major river that runs through the southwest US, the Colorado, I have begun to learn the influence and impact that my actions have on the 40 million people downstream that depend on the water that I have access to. I have also seen the devastating impacts that uncontrolled wildfires can have on an ecosystem and community, and I have become super passionate about educating people on forest health and wildfire management.”

What is the best advice you have received during your journey as an activist?
“The best advice I have received is it is very hard to change people’s minds on things they are dead set on, but you can try your best by providing them with the knowledge that you have been given and let them change their own mind. This spread of knowledge can have more far-reaching effects than some people realize. When you give people something to think about, it can be fairly influential on their thought process and can often help in the convincing of others who are stuck in their ways.”

DANJA DIPOKARTO
Paramaribo, Suriname

Danja is a first-year student at the Anton de Kom University in Suriname, where she is studying Environmental Science. She grew up in a multi-ethnic background family who all had one thing in common: their love of nature — and they passed on that love of nature to her. When she watched the documentary 2040 and was able to witness the impact of human behavior on the environment, her passion for becoming an environmental activist was reignited. Since then, she has followed courses on Microbiology, Wildlife Extinction, and Forensics. In her free time, Danja likes to read a good book, paint or learn a new skill.

Why are you committed to environmental and social justice?
“We are slowly but surely moving towards a world where more people are fighting for justice in all areas. Race, status, and gender do not determine the quality of life that is accessible to an individual. The system that has caused this environmental and social injustice has been in place for too long.”

Why do you think it is important to share broad perspectives on global issues like climate change?
“Even though the issues are universal, we all have different experiences to share and learn from. To address topics that are broad, and have impact on people from all across the world, it is only fitting to hear the effects it has on people that come from all parts of the world. A global issue needs a solution carried out globally.”

What do you hope to learn during this Course that will make a difference in your community?
“A community does not need leaders who can talk the talk, but who can’t walk the walk. With this course I hope to learn to take initiative and slowly gain the confidence and tools needed to be a good leader in the community. And to also be active in participating, bringing awareness and searching for solutions to issues.”

How can students be changemakers around environmental and social justice activism?
“First, they have to be made aware of the injustice. If one is not aware of a problem that has to be fixed, one does not take action to fix it. Second, they can start in their environment. One person can’t fix the world, which can seem very daunting, but somewhere that feels closer and a little easier might be a good starting point. Third, join or create a movement. Social media platforms are great tools to let voices be heard.”

DANIEL KOTO DAGNON

Abomey-Calavi, Benin

Daniel is an undergraduate third year at University of Abomey Calavi in Benin, studying Hydrology and Water Resources Management. Young, dynamic, passionate, and dedicated to the cause of his community, his actions are focused primarily on safeguarding and protecting the environment in the context of climate change. He is involved in the work of local NGOs and has won several awards, including Green Ambassador for Climate in Africa by Climate Change and Africa Opportunities (CCAO). In his free time, Daniel enjoys being in environments of good humor and loves Ed Sheeran!

Why do you think it is important to share broad perspectives on global issues like climate change?
“Global problems, such as climate change, must be addressed in their globality. It would be difficult, if not impossible, to provide individual solutions to a common problem. A synergy of action with all of the actors involved or concerned by these problems will make it easier, faster, and more efficient to remedy them.” 

Why are you committed to environmental and social justice?
“Africa has the youngest population in the world. To better exploit this geographic dividend, African youth must be seen as actors and drivers of development, not just beneficiaries. The youth must therefore inclusively learn and meet the challenges they face because they are the future of a nation, and they have a responsibility to protect the environment for themselves and for future generations. It is with this in mind that I work for environmental and social justice, to make a difference and inspire other young people to do the same.”

How can students be changemakers around environmental and social justice activism?
“They can become agents of change by taking the time to first learn technical knowledge in the field of environment and social justice. Then they can put theory into practice by undertaking initiatives, innovation and engineering in their research to bring concrete solutions to the problems encountered in this field.”

How do you hope the Course will contribute to your personal empowerment, education, and mobilization on issues you care about?
“I hope that PGCourse will give me a broader view of the issues I care about, and that it will build me up in my day as a green climate ambassador. This course will also most certainly give me the right mindset to overcome any challenges I may face.”

FILIP MOMIROSKI

Skopje, Macedonia

Filip is currently finishing his second year at Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje, Macedonia in the Institute of Biology, Department of Nutrition. From a young age, Filip grew up in the capital where vehicles, noise, crowds, and polluted air are common. As he grew older, he began to realize that this was not a normal way of life and that it caused daily stress that negatively affected people. That is why he started joining non-governmental organizations and associations for the protection of animals and the environment. As he puts it, he is “voting for the voiceless” in order to facilitate change across society. Filip is fully committed to achieving that process with a plan to continue his master’s and doctoral studies in that field. When Filip is not learning or working, he likes to read, and he loves music, especially anything by Queen.

If you lived by a mission statement, what would it be and why?
“Everyone should do what is in their power for the planet and humanity by including and applying science and scientific discipline and leaving good deeds behind.”

Why are you committed to environmental and social justice?
“Because I think I am directly connected to nature. I love nature very much and I hate when I see how someone destroys it. Even with simple examples that are very easy to solve, there are people who are so stingy and companies that do not care at all. In addition, drinking clean water and eating healthy foods should not be a choice of a few individuals deciding for everyone; those should be available for everyone. There can be no such miracles in the world in this century without clean air.”

How can students be changemakers around environmental and social justice activism?
“Students aim for and think of something higher. There are opportunities if you are a student, including projects, congresses, seminars, additional training, international conferences. I think that every student should use every opportunity provided. It’s an easy way to build and be influential. That is why students can be part of big world changes around environmentalism and social justice activism. They are heard, always.”

What is an environmental issue that you are particularly passionate about and why?
“Let’s start with air pollution, which connects with deforestation… one of the many reasons I am vegan is the pollution caused by cows. Animal agriculture is the largest land use system on Earth and therefore is the top driver of deforestation. Plant-based diets require far less land for food production and could not only help stop deforestation, but also allow for large-scale reforestation and rewilding. Everyone should know that and not ignore it.”

JULIANA DOS SANTOS

Londrina, Paraná, Brazil

Juliana is a food science Master’s student at the Universidade Estadual de Londrina in Brazil, where she is studying biodegradable materials. She graduated in food engineering and has a specialization degree in business administration. She is passionate about finding ways to reduce waste, solutions that can be implemented to address it, and her own personal journey to becoming a green activist. Juliana was part of the Scout Movement, where she was able to learn different ways of how nature is receiving the human impact. Juliana’s favorite activities include cooking, reading, movie watching, and trying new restaurants.

Why do you think it is important to share broad perspectives on global issues like climate change?
“We can’t have all the experiences in the world. So being able to have a discussion with people from different backgrounds is extremely important to generate insights and transform an idea into the best plan for our local community.”

Why are you committed to environmental and social justice? 
“I know it sounds common, but we have just one planet to be living on and we, as humans, are not doing a great job right now.”

How can students be changemakers around environmental and social justice activism? 
“Students have access to information and they should transform this information into something people can relate to.”

What is the best advice you have received during your journey as an activist? 
“Don´t feel down if someone doesn’t agree or understand what you are doing. Sometimes we just need to try another approach or lead by example.”

LAURA RAMBARAN-SEEPERSAD

Chaguanas, Trinidad and Tobago 

Laura is currently pursuing her graduate degree in Climate Change and Finance at the University of the West Indies in Trinidad and Tobago and has worked in many fields, including academia, public sector, family business, and culture. Now, outside of her studies, Laura is a Public Relations Officer of CARISCIENCE, where she promotes science and technology education throughout the Caribbean. She is passionate about youth education and mobilization and uses her free time to volunteer with Science Olympiads and Nobel Laureate Public Lectures, as well as other work in health and safety education, environmental and religious groups, and local and international charities. Living on a Caribbean island, she has been privy to climatic change and its effects on Small Island Developing States (SIDS), which feeds her desire to make her country, Caribbean, and world a better, more sustainable place. In the future, she hopes to be a climate change leader and share skills and knowledge globally. 

Why do you think it is important to share broad perspectives on global issues like climate change?
“Whilst we are all individuals, we are all humans. Culture, location, social standing, upbringing, etc. allow for diversity of ideas and knowledge. Sharing broad perspectives on global issues like climate change allows for sparks of thought and the merging of ideas leading to solutions.”

Why are you committed to environmental and social justice? 
“‘Order is the sanity of the mind, the health of the body, the peace of the city, the security of the state.’ — Eliza Cook. Environmental and social justice are pillars of a sustainably functioning society. Commitment to these, to me, is the foundation of an orderly world.”

What is an environmental issue that you are particularly passionate about and why? 
“Sea level rise is of grave concern to me. Trinidad and Tobago is a 5,131 km² twin island nation. Whilst Tobago is the smaller tourist destination, Trinidad is the business hub. There are several villages located meters away from the shoreline. These communities are severely affected by rainfall activity. The houses are predominantly wooden, most on stilts and accessed by makeshift ramps. The occupants range from young children to the elderly with no electricity and a shortage of food in most cases. Sea level rise therefore affects these persons who are already severely disadvantaged by their present living circumstances. Nature’s landscape reclamation is directly impacting lives, but there is synergy to be had.”

What do you hope to learn during this Course that will make a difference in your community? 
“I hope to learn new approaches and techniques to local and international issues. Countries may already be implementing strategies which we have not even thought of yet. There is no need to reinvent the wheel in some cases. Understanding climate justice and novel approaches towards mitigating the effects of climate change will make a difference to my community and country.”

MACY BENSON

Los Angeles, California, USA

Macy is a rising second year at the University of California, Los Angeles, where she is studying Psychology and Education. She grew up loving the ocean, which ultimately led to her passion for environmental activism and conservation. Macy has recently gotten involved in youth activism and has been working on a campaign to transition California to 100% renewable energy by 2030. She is exploring ways that her background in psychology and education intersects with environmental studies and environmental injustices. In her free time, Macy loves spending time with friends and family, visiting the ocean, hiking, traveling, and learning more about the world around her.

How can students be changemakers around environmental and social justice activism?
“Environmental and social justice activism is something that everyone can be a part of! I personally believe that it all starts on an individual level, which can be discovering your personal passion for change and your “why” as you start making changes in your personal life.”

Why are you committed to environmental and social justice?
“I am committed to environmental and social justice because the two topics that I am most passionate about are people and the planet. I spend my free time in an activist group working to protect the planet, but I spend my studies learning how to help people. Although I used to view these two topics as very separate, there are many overlaps between environmental and social justice. I am fascinated by the connections among people and the environment, and I want to continue to work on improving those connections and helping people and our planet.”

What are you most looking forward to as you are joining the PGCourse global community?
“There are so many new topics that I am excited to learn more about through the PGCourse global community. Currently, I do not know much about food and farming, as well as fashion, fair trade, industry and ethics. I am excited to learn more about these topics and to hear diverse perspectives on these issues.”

How do you hope the Course will contribute to your personal empowerment, education, and mobilization on issues you care about?
“I am extremely fascinated by the way that different subjects intersect one another, especially environmental topics and people. I am hoping that through PGCourse, I can learn more about those intersections and ways we can mobilize on those issues.”

MARIA PAULA DÁVILA

Bogotá, Colombia

Maria Paula is a student in her third semester of Chemical Engineering at Universidad Nacional de Colombia in Bogotá, Columbia and a graduate of a program called “Sueños con piernas liderazgo en valores para jóvenes” or “Dreams with legs of leadership in youth values.” Maria Paula is interested in understanding the processes and mechanisms of industry and the overall world. She is passionate about mathematics and chemistry, leaving a positive footprint with her actions, and helping people by giving support, assistance, and love. She believes that big changes can be possible with knowledge, delivery, empathy, and awareness, so she wants to be one of the leaders who make change. She hopes to become a leader in environmental justice and wants to advocate for the care of nature as a chemical engineer. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, plays ukulele, and dances with a crew at her university!

Why are you committed to environmental and social justice?
“I want to improve my daily routines and know how to raise my voice for change, thinking all the time about the environment and communities’ well-being. To have a world full of happiness and peace, it is necessary to have a nice place to live and to breathe.” 

What is an environmental issue that you are particularly passionate about and why?
“I am passionate and interested mainly in three problems: poor access to clean water in many regions of Colombia and around the world, large amounts of solid waste, and the lack of environmental education in schools and colleges. I am motivated to work on and investigate those things because they are important to improve the state of natural and public spaces and the lifestyle of people who do not know what we can do to delete the negative impact and increase the positive one with each activity, service and product we have.”

What are you most looking forward to as you are joining the PGCourse global community?
“I am looking forward to learning a lot of things regarding green footprints, environmental issues and solutions, training in leadership, and communication skills. Moreover, I am excited to meet new people around the world who are interested in and passionate about the care of our planet, a better place to live, and to take all of our creativity and inspiration to help communities, animals, plants and ecosystems through teamwork.”

Why do you think it is important to share broad perspectives on global issues like climate change?
“There are different consequences in different regions in the world because of global climate change. We need to understand what is happening in each region to construct a global solution or apply useful solutions where applicable. Moreover, understanding current situations in places far from my location lets me increase empathy and the feeling that we are one as humanity.”

MERLIN KORFMACHER

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Merlin is a political science bachelor graduate at the University of Amsterdam in the Netherlands, starting a Master’s in political theory at the same university. He was born and raised in Korschenbroich, a small city in the Rhineland in Germany. Growing up between nature and the city, Merlin’s passion for the environment was sparked at a young age and was later radicalized by living nearby to the Hambach Tagebau, where a huge hole has been ripped in the earth to extract coal. Aside from his studies, he has a side-job working in an international Nasdaq listed e-commerce company where he has been elected the chairman of the works council, dedicating extra time to social justice at the workplace. In his free time, Merlin enjoys reading (fantasy and political theory), gardening (plants and mushrooms), writing, and going to festivals (art and music).

Why are you committed to environmental and social justice?
“I do not only want to preserve good living conditions for generations of the now and the future, but I also think there is an inherent beauty in nature that needs to be preserved, as all living beings have the same right for freedom and autonomy on our bounded planet.”

Why do you think it is important to share broad perspectives on global issues like climate change?
“Because a lot of stakeholders with a variety of interests are included in the situation, it is important to keep a broad perspective to not discriminate or suppress views, opinions and people.”

What do you hope to learn during this Course that will make a difference in your community?
“I hope to evolve my activist and leadership skills to better mobilize and create smaller groupings that lead to success. With my experience as chairman of the works council, I realized leading people is not as easy as it seems, especially if different skill sets meet. Furthermore, in negotiations and representation, it is difficult to navigate the fine balance of one’s own conscience and different stakeholder interests.”

What makes you feel at peace? 
“Knowing things change for the better.”

NUPPU MIELONEN

Kuopio, Finland 

Nuppu is a Master’s degree student in Innovation Management from University of Eastern Finland with a passion for sustainability topics. Since she was small, she has been fascinated by nature around her, especially the oceans and waters that support life on the planet. Of late, worries about climate change and its effects on seasonal changes in the North are on her mind. With her studies, a research-based foundation for sustainability and environmental activities has been laid, and with Project Green Course, a more active voice will come. Nuppu lives in Finland and is Finnish national, but has also spent over 15 years in the Netherlands. In her free time, Nuppu enjoys walks in nature, reading, yoga and knitting.

What is the best advice you have received during your journey as an activist? 
“Do what you can, do more of the things that make you happy, and every step counts.”

Why are you committed to environmental and social justice? 
“Seeing the changes around us, how the environmental issues and climate change really affect the world we live in, it is not just a faraway somewhere in the future anymore, I feel like we all should step up and take even the small steps we can to support the wellbeing of the environment we live in.”

How do you hope the Course will contribute to your personal empowerment, education, and mobilization on issues you care about? 
“Translating my passion to action and activating my voice are the starting point and gaining interesting insights from fellow cohorts and experienced lecturers on how to move ahead I would say are the main points to start with, definitely adding to who I am and what I want to do in the future, not forgetting how to manage this, of course. The broad spectrum of topics that will be discussed will bring new ideas and new ways of doing things, which learning and developing is all about.”

How can students be changemakers around environmental and social justice activism? 
“Students are the changemakers of tomorrow so they have the power at their hands. The knowledge gained today will be the actions of tomorrow. Also, together with more voices from all around the world we will be heard better.”

RISHI SENTHIL

Stockholm, Sweden

Rishi completed his bachelor’s in civil engineering at Thiagarajar College of Engineering in India and is currently a first-year Master’s student in Environmental Engineering and Sustainable Infrastructure at KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm. Growing up in India, he had always been surrounded by agricultural fields, which provided beautiful green surroundings and gave Rishi a connection with nature. Though Rishi’s interest in environmental impact is mainly inspired by his bachelor’s thesis, his background and childhood play a role in his passions as well. Now, he hopes to spread awareness about environmental issues that are currently affecting people. Apart from academics, in his leisure time, Rishi enjoys traveling and listening to old songs.

Why do you think it is important to share broad perspectives on global issues like climate change?
“Climate change is vast, and the reasons for its operation are uncertain and the sources are numerous. Therefore, climate change should be handled in a broad perspective.”

Why are you committed to environmental and social justice?
“Normal people are not aware of environmental issues that arise every day. They don’t care about the environment and exploit in all possible ways. Awareness has been raised and partially followed by industries, because of strict governance policies that are formed. Therefore, I believe governance policies can be [expanded] and people still can be educated on how not to exploit the environment. I hope they follow.”

What do you hope to learn during this Course that will make a difference in your community? 
“Raising awareness about upcoming environmental issues and how an individual can make their contribution to mitigate it.”

How can students be changemakers around environmental and social justice activism? 
“Students have fresh and strong minds, I believe. They have the capacity to solve any kind of circumstance. Students have interdisciplinary mindsets, through which they integrate methods to solve the issue.”

RIYA RAMPALLI

Oakland, California, USA

Riya (she/her/hers) is a rising fourth year at Mills College, a private women’s-centric liberal arts college based in Oakland, California. At Mills, Riya has been studying Environmental Science. Her passion for the environment began in high school, when she worked with the Maria Mitchell Aquarium to develop educational initiatives to inform the public on the devastating impacts of plastic waste. After she graduates, Riya wants to conduct research abroad to expand her field experience. She hopes to attend graduate school shortly after. While Riya doesn’t have a chosen concentration in Environmental Science, she is fascinated by the ocean. In recent years, she has become interested in systems dynamics and interspecies interactions. In her free time, Riya enjoys hiking, watching detective shows, and reading.

Why do you think it is important to share broad perspectives on global issues like climate change?

“Global issues like climate change affect more than the individual. They affect communities and even social, economic, and political systems. By sharing a broad perspective, we can begin to understand the various ways in which these matters intersect to shape our society.”

Why are you committed to environmental and social justice?
“During the 1940s, my great-grandmothers wore sarees of homespun cloth, the most visible sign of resistance in the waning days of Britain’s colonization of India. They were formidable advocates for indigent women and children, and built households where social welfare was nurtured, honored, and celebrated. My mother and father were imbued with this sentiment growing up, and I believe that this force is what led my parents to find me in an orphanage in Mumbai more than a decade ago. So while I may not be biologically related to my adoptive family, they have passed down to me something far stronger than their genes. Their acts of defiance and kindness inspire me to never back down from standing up for what I believe in. For my great-grandmothers, it was Indian independence and helping the impoverished; for me, it is the catastrophic effects of loss of biodiversity due to human disturbance and global climate change that motivate me to act.”

What is an environmental issue that you are particularly passionate about and why?
An environmental issue that I am particularly passionate about is water pollution in rural, low-income, communities of color. For these communities, social justice has always remained closely related to politics and environmental practices. In California, these communities have bore the brunt of toxic agricultural runoff and salt and nitrate contamination. Having taken an Ethnic Studies course, I have come to understand that the presence of poor environmental practices in disproportionately marginalized neighborhoods has less to do with the fact that people of color tend to be poor and thus live in less desirable neighborhoods. Rather, many of the discriminatory practices today are a result of race and class relations. Given my prior experience, I am committed to ensuring long term, safe and affordable drinking water for these communities.”

How can students be change makers around environmental and social justice activism?
“When students use inclusive language, they become changemakers for both environmental and social justice activism. By advocating for issues that are not only important to themselves, but others as well, they can begin to engage individuals who might be hesitant to act. In doing so, we begin to see student-led movements that include voices that have been left out in the past.”

SANJANA ACHARYA

Chennai, India

Sanjana is a recent graduate of a Master’s in Development Studies from the Indian Institute of Technology in Madras, India. She has lived in the cities of Chennai and Bangalore, where she has witnessed the impacts of the climate crisis firsthand in the form of water shortages and rising temperatures, strongly reinforcing in her that the climate crisis is a social justice issue. She is actively involved in organizing and research for environmental justice movements in her home city of Bangalore. She has previously worked with sustainable organizations and brands in roles of outreach, curation, content writing, event coordination, and has also engaged in public policy research. In her free time, she likes to paint with watercolors, listen to audiobooks, and dance. 

Why do you think it is important to share broad perspectives on global issues like climate change?
“The climate crisis cannot be solved in silos. It affects all areas of the world and is deeply rooted in the way we run our economies, the way our social systems work, the way inequalities pan out in the world, and therefore, broad perspectives are essential when we try to address an issue like climate change.”

Why are you committed to environmental and social justice?
“As a young person living in India, one of the most vulnerable countries to the climate crisis, it is hard to ignore the signs of the climate crisis as they loom all around you. It also becomes apparent how the climate crisis affects different people in vastly different ways. Farmers, outdoor construction labourers, coal mine workers, low-income households who live in flood-risk areas are already impacted by the climate crisis, and it is affecting their lives and livelihoods. These reasons reinforce my commitment to environmental and social justice, making it clear that the two are inseparable.”

What are you most looking forward to as you are joining the PGCourse global community?
“I look forward to accessing a community of people who are passionate about creating a better world, and can be sources of knowledge and inspiration, especially on days where the future seems bleak, or I feel the need for motivation.”

What is the best advice you have received during your journey as an activist?
“When I talk to activists who have been doing this for so many years, I understand that it is important to ‘keep on keeping on,’ but in a way, that includes patience, space for self-care and reflection, also in a way that always has the big picture or ‘grand-vision’ in mind.”

SINAN KITAGENDA

Masaka, Uganda

Sinan is in his third year at Makerere University Kampala in Uganda, where he is pursuing a BS in Conservation Biology. His passion for sustainability comes largely through his education, but was entirely motivated by his past experience with his parents when they went for months without enough farm yield for sustaining food at home, which opened up his eyes to the effects of climate change. Now, at Makerere University, Sinan is the team leader of the Students Sustainability Action Group-SSAG, a sustainability platform that emphasizes an African-led drive to embed sustainability in the curriculum, research, operations, and governance. This platform became the first Green Office Initiative outside of Europe and was officially recognized by SOS International and UNESCO Japan as a best practice for Education for Sustainable Development. He has helped over 15 award-winning start-up social ventures and enterprises through business pitches. Sinan is now working as a Product Designer and Production Manager at EcoBrixs, turning over 40 tons of plastic waste into valuable things that benefit the earth and our pockets. Africa for the youth by the youth! 

Why do you think it is important to share broad perspectives on global issues like climate change?
“The climate change crisis is a terrible manifestation of our lack of understanding and respect for the natural world. Each of us has the responsibility to affirmatively stand out and believe that science can solve climate change. When we share knowledge, it helps everyone to know what to do at the back of their conscience in regards to protecting biodiversity and the natural world.”

Why are you committed to environmental and social justice? 
“I am committed to environmental and social justice because I have been a first hand victim of climate change. This has always been my central push and motivation within my work. I can lessen the impact at a personal level and also at a communal level through transformative advocacy that is inclusive, practical and solutions-driven to solve the problems of climate change. I have slept on a bare stomach at least twice with clear reason: because of droughts, when we couldn’t have any farm yields as food on our plate.”

What do you hope to learn during this Course that will make a difference in your community?
“I hope to learn more about how to communicate the science of climate change to ordinary people in grassroots communities who are most affected by the impacts of climate change, because they usually don’t have the resources to be resilient in changing climatic conditions. I also hope to learn more about the measurement of soft impact in regards to project implementations. Soft impact to me means that if you carried out an activity for a green cause, how can we best measure impact of the “after” or beneficiary?”

How can students be change makers around environmental and social justice activism?
“Students need to know that if they are lucky and have been taught about biodiversity, conservation, and climate change mitigation through sustainable development courses, what is taught in class should be just a catalyst. They should leave the comfort zones of desks to actualize and teach more people in communities. This ripple effect helps to spread the message of saving our environment. When social issues arise, these are usually a result of mismanaged natural resources and unfair government policies that affect the environment. All people, both students and whom they teach in the communities, can then respond to issues.”

SRNA MAJSTOROVIC

Skopje, Macedonia

Srna is in her last year at the Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje, Macedonia studying Molecular Biology and Genetics. She has been a scout since she was eight, and grew up near the mountains in Skopje, which inspired her to cherish and contribute to nature and motivate others to make better choices. During her sophomore year, she was granted a one-year opportunity for young ecologists from a local ecology organization, and explored the saproxylic coleopteran fauna living in the unprotected forests; she is still making efforts with her team to provide the protection they deserve. Srna hopes to continue her education in the field of environmental education, gather the tools needed to succeed, and become a voice that sparks positive change. She enjoys scouting, hiking, exploring, swimming, and spending time with her cats in her free time.

Why do you think it is important to share broad perspectives on global issues like climate change?
“If your shared perspective does only as little as creating a spark, you have made a change. Thoughts are powerful and when supported by facts and actions, they get the ball rolling, which is something we really need at this point.”

Why are you committed to environmental and social justice? 
“The world has seen enough injustice already in these last few decades and now, more than ever, it is important to gather strengths and start making better choices. Nature is our home and all of the organisms found there, including humans are our family. It is time we start treating them as such.”

What do you hope to learn during this Course that will make a difference in your community?
“I hope to discover all of the different perspectives surrounding climate change and climate justice, but most of all, I hope to gain confidence and develop a voice that will be loud against injustice, a voice that will spark motivation and inspire all to do better.”

How can students be change makers around environmental and social justice activism?
“Give students relevant knowledge and information, as well as a platform on which they can be vocal to talk about the injustice and feel safe to make mistakes, which are the best teachers!”

STEPHEN KIRK 

Norwich, United Kingdom

Stephen is a rising second-year International Development and Environment student at the University of East Anglia in the United Kingdom. His passion for the environment began when he started pursuing photography as a way of capturing the world through his own lens, focusing on nature and its endless beauty. He continued this nature-focused work through hikes, mountain biking, and fundraising events for the non-profit sector. He is passionate about climate justice, responsibility, and advocating for organisations and governments to change for the better. After Stephen graduates, he hopes to work in the non-profit sector in making projects and organisations more environmentally friendly and efficient, policymaking for environmental protection, and meeting the 1.5º C Paris Agreement target. He spends his free time in nature, focusing on mental health, reading, and enjoying the beauty of our world.

Why are you committed to environmental and social justice?
“The only way humans will survive in the future is if we work together, connected, with nature. It is paramount that environmental justice must be served for all of the damage that has been caused and is to be caused to our world.”

What is an environmental issue that you are particularly passionate about/ why?
Institutional and governmental policy and education on climate change and justice. It sounds like a mouthful, but institutions source the goods consumers consume. If an institution produces less impactful and more environmentally friendly products at an affordable price point, consumers will have a lower carbon footprint. The debate on demand versus consumption is clear: if the demand is there (by consumers), the industry will create. This leads into government policy and education. If consumers are aware that they are responsible for climate change and they can demand more environmentally friendly products, along with living less demanding lives, this will lead to institutional change at a consumer-business level. Something such as a carbon tax from government policy would mean that electrification would be accelerated and carbon neutral/negative can be achieved.”

Why do you think it is important to share broad perspectives on global issues like climate change?
Climate change will affect us all; if it isn’t already, it will. But it will affect us in different ways. This means it requires different perspectives to tackle the different challenges surrounding climate change”

What is the best advice you have received during your journey as an activist?
“Be the change you want to see.”

TAKUNDA TANYANYIWA   

Bergen, Norway 

Takunda is a second-year Master’s student at the University of Bergen in Norway studying Global Development Theory and Practice with a specialization in health promotion. Inspired by rural Zimbabwean women and communities’ sustainable practices and environmental preservation, Takunda is passionate about relationships and partnerships within and between nations that value reciprocity in sustainability interventions. He founded and coordinates Ramangwana Grassroots Development Initiative (RGDI), a community initiative that believes that sustainable development can be achieved through education, health, and a sustainable environment. He also cares about youth justice and works in YWCA-YMCA Norway. Within Project Green Course, he hopes to use his exposure and experience to ensure that stakeholders develop climate action partnerships models that promote social justice, inclusion, and sustainability. Takunda’s favorite music artist is Tocky Vybes, a dance and afro-fusion local musician from Zimbabwe!

How will PGCourse address some of the largest issues of our time?
“PGCourse provides a platform for diversity, a very important ingredient in developing inclusive and innovative solutions to the health and climate sustainability issues today.”

Why are you committed to environmental and social justice?
“I believe humans should and must live in harmony with their environment and as such young people have a responsibility to be part of the solution in solving world pressing sustainability concerns.”

How do you hope the Course will contribute to your personal empowerment, education, and mobilization on issues you care about?
“Climate change in the grassroots is rich with local innovative solutions that can be impactful at a global level. It is my hope that this course with provide that bridge with knowledge, networks and approaches where possible, I would replicate those in rural Zimbabwean communities and influence policy at a national level.”

What is the best advice you have received during your journey as an activist?
“As a change maker, your intervention should be reflective of the society in which its intended and you can thrive through collaborative brilliance in responding to issues of development.”

VITTORIO ESPOSITO

Stockholm, Sweden

Vittorio is a Master’s Degree graduate from KTH in Stockholm, Sweden in Environmental Engineering and Sustainable Infrastructure, and he studied civil engineering in this bachelor at Politecnico di Milano in Italy. After his graduation, he did a variety of internships in the field of environmental engineering and sustainability, and now is looking for a long-term position in the field he studied, either in the academic or professional field. His hope is to find a way to apply his skills where he can make the most positive impact, and hopefully learn more. Recently he has been interested in topics related to environmental impacts such as LCA and EIA, but also how that influences communities through public participation, urban planning, and nature-based adaptation. He has a variety of hobbies, mostly related to creativity, such as art, cinema, drawing, photography, and such.  

Why do you think it is important to share broad perspectives on global issues like climate change?
“Sharing knowledge is one of the most important tools at our disposal, and if we want to create a meaningful impact, we must work together and consider different perspectives.”

What do you hope to learn during this Course that will make a difference in your community?
“Learn more about practical issues and how to tackle them in local settings.”

How can students be changemakers around environmental and social justice activism?
“Everyone can be a changemaker; it takes a small effort to make a difference, and even small change at the local level is very important.”

What are you most looking forward to as you are joining the PGCourse global community?
“Learning more about socio-environmental issues more practically, and being able to work together with other passionate people and share ideas.”