Voices of Change and Chain

 

I find immense inspiration in the work of those who dedicate their lives to nurturing our world, whether through . Each of these figures has left an indelible mark on me and countless others.

Vandana Shiva – An environmental activist, scholar, and author, Vandana Shiva is a beacon for sustainable agriculture and a fierce advocate for biodiversity. Her work on promoting organic farming, seed saving, and the protection of indigenous knowledge has been transformative in the fight against corporate control of food systems. I admire her ability to weave together science, philosophy, and activism to create a more just and sustainable world. She has not only championed the health of the planet but also the empowerment of local communities to reclaim their rights.

Shagun Singh – A passionate educator and activist, Shagun Singh has demonstrated extraordinary leadership in the areas of community engagement and environmental justice. Her work highlights the critical need to understand and act on the local impacts of global issues, from climate change to social inequality. Shagun’s contributions to social-emotional learning (SEL) and environmental education have inspired me to think more deeply about how we can empower future generations to act as conscious stewards of both society and the planet.

John Green – As a writer, educator, and philanthropist, John Green has profoundly impacted me with his storytelling, especially through his novels like The Fault in Our Stars and Looking for Alaska. His ability to weave complex themes of life, love, loss, and identity in a way that is accessible and thought-provoking is remarkable. His work extends beyond the written word, as he and his brother Hank have fostered a community of knowledge and curiosity through their YouTube channel, CrashCourse, which has transformed online education.

Dr. Nadine Burke Harris – A pediatrician and public health advocate, Dr. Nadine Burke Harris is a leading figure in understanding the connection between toxic stress in children and long-term health outcomes. As the founder of the Center for Youth Wellness and former California's first Surgeon General, she has worked tirelessly to raise awareness about how early childhood adversity can impact both physical and mental health throughout life. Her work focuses on preventive healthcare, trauma-informed care, and mental health, making her a vital advocate for social justice and equity in healthcare. Dr. Burke Harris’s groundbreaking research has paved the way for healthier, more informed practices in public health.

John Hardy – Founder of Green School Bali, John Hardy has redefined what a school can be. Green School emphasizes a sustainable, interdisciplinary approach to education, where students are taught not just academic knowledge, but also environmental stewardship, innovation, and social responsibility. Built primarily from bamboo, Green School’s campus is a living example of sustainability, and its curriculum integrates sustainability practices into daily learning. John Hardy’s vision of holistic education and the importance of global citizenship in addressing climate change and environmental degradation is shaping a new generation of changemakers.

Rajendra Singh – Waterman of India – A true hero of the environment, Rajendra Singh’s work in water conservation has made him a global symbol of grassroots environmental action. Known as the "Waterman of India," his dedication to rejuvenating rivers, creating water-harvesting systems, and empowering rural communities to protect their water resources has changed the lives of millions. His work not only restores ecosystems but also transforms communities by showing how local action can have a global impact.

Kip Thorne – A world-renowned theoretical physicist, Kip Thorne is best known for his work in gravitational physics and astrophysics, particularly his contributions to the discovery of gravitational waves. As a Nobel laureate, Thorne’s research in black holes, wormholes, and the fabric of space-time has not only advanced scientific understanding but also had a profound cultural impact, inspiring the blockbuster film Interstellar. His work shows how science and imagination can intersect to address humanity's most complex questions about the universe, while also encouraging the pursuit of scientific curiosity and collaborative research to unlock new possibilities for the future.

Justin Trudeau – The Prime Minister of Canada, Justin Trudeau, is recognized for his leadership in promoting social justice, climate action, and equality. His commitment to gender equality, immigration reform, and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples has positioned Canada as a global leader in advocating for human rights. Under his leadership, Canada has taken significant steps towards climate change mitigation and green energy investments. Trudeau’s focus on multiculturalism, diversity, and social equity has shaped a progressive vision for Canada, balancing economic growth with social and environmental responsibility.

Sophie Grégoire Trudeau – An advocate for mental health and women’s rights, Sophie Grégoire Trudeau is passionate about promoting well-being, self-care, and mental health awareness. As an advocate for anti-bullying and women’s health, she works closely with charities like WE Charity and has created awareness campaigns around the importance of self-compassion and mental health resilience. Sophie’s advocacy emphasizes the need to create inclusive spaces where individuals, especially women, can talk about and seek help for mental health challenges.

David Schwartz – Author of the motivational book The Magic of Thinking Big, David Schwartz emphasizes the importance of positive thinking, self-belief, and goal-setting. His philosophy is centered around the idea that by thinking beyond limitations and focusing on big dreams, individuals can transform their lives and reach their fullest potential. Through his work, Schwartz has inspired countless people to overcome self-doubt, take risks, and adopt a mindset that encourages both personal growth and leadership. His teachings continue to inspire individuals to push boundaries and aim for success in all aspects of their lives.

René-Maurice Gattefossé’s - His theories have influenced the broader field of natural healing and alternative medicine, and his work continues to inspire practitioners of holistic health today. By championing the therapeutic benefits of essential oils, he laid the groundwork for the wellness movement, which emphasizes the importance of integrating natural solutions into self-care routines. His contributions to plant medicine are still relevant as people continue to seek more natural, sustainable, and holistic alternatives to conventional medicine. That's Aromatherapy!

Jessi Knudsen Castañeda is a passionate wildlife educator and the co-founder of Animal Wonders Inc., a nonprofit organization based in Missoula, Montana. Her mission is to provide lifelong homes for rescued animals and to educate the public about wildlife conservation and animal welfare.​