Éimear is a 21-year-old Irish environmentalist, who believes that there is a place for everyone within the conservation sector; whether you’re passionate about marine or terrestrial life, environmental social justice or sustainable fashion, or perhaps even policy and law. She believes that the primary thing to know when entering into this field, if it’s your full-time career or side-hobby, is to simply believe in yourself, and to continue trying to succeed!

Éimear is also the Senior Science Communication Editor at the scientific journal Youth STEM 2030 (https://www.youthstem2030.org/youth-stem-matters/read), and is adamant that equitable access to education is key to solving key global issues – from social injustice to climate change. If you’re passionate about any area within STEM and the UN SDGs, why not submit an article with this awesome youth-run scientific journal? 

21-year-old Laura Maisvoreva of Zimbabwe is an inspirational youth who is making waves within scientific research and conservation! Laura, over the past few years, has been developing a project known as a “Coral Reef Controller,” which is designed to conserve marine corals. Outside of actual scientific research, Laura is also a brilliant science communicator. Check out her recent article on the interdependence of wildlife and human health here: https://www.youthstem2030.org/youth-stem-matters/read/the-interdependence-of-human-health-and-the-health-of-planet-earth

Lucy Skelton is a 19-year-old Australian activist, and the creator of the Student Voice Network (SVN). Lucy’s work in the conservation and activism sector is truly astounding! She not only believes that youth as individuals can make powerful change in their own communities, but that we can form major national and global change together. As a result, she created the SVN platform, which is a place where like-minded youth can share their ideas, passions, plans and projects to solve and combat various global systemic issues – from climate change to social injustice. Check out the SVN now and join the community here: www.svn-au.com. 

Meet 19-year-old Lydia Rysavy, the Swedish youth who is making powerful systemic change! As an avid activist, Lydia is involved in calling leaders to action and holding those accountable for their environmental wrongdoings. However, Lydia is adamant that activism is not just handing out flyers and protesting in the streets (though she loves doing both of those things). She believes that activism is simply taking action for our planet and for our people – whether that be by emailing government officials demanding change, or purchasing sustainably and ethically sourced products; or whatever you can do for our planet!

Check out Rachel Dowling – a 21-year-old Irish zoologist! Rachels passion for ecology is mesmerising. Rachel emphasises that understanding and exploring your own backyard is one of the best tools any aspiring zoology or ecologist has. By adventuring throughout your local areas, you can discover so much wonderful life, and – better yet – if you record your discoveries on citizen science platforms, such as www.biodiversityireland.ie, you actually aid in scientists further understanding them AND conserving them! 

Introducing the wonderful Summer Snell – a 22-year-old from Plymouth, England. Summer is truly an inspiration to all youth who are passionate about the environment. Summers form of conservation is based upon science communication, through which, she educates the world about sustainability with a particular emphasis on accessibility. Check out her website, www.thehelpfulwhale.wordpress.com, for realistic eco-friendly ideas!