Aarush Mahajan, Team Action for World

Senior, GG International School, Pune, India

Aarush is a student at GG International School in Pune, Maharashtra, India, and part of PGC Team Action for World. His interests span space exploration, climate action, and the intersection of technology and mathematics. Aarush co-led Cosmox Blogs to uplift science communication and innovation. He represents his team’s collective vision for a sustainable future, grounded in curiosity, collaboration, and impact.

Climate Action Project: Carbon Conversations & Community Action Toolkit

The Carbon Conversations & Community Action Toolkit is a youth-led initiative based in Pune, India, designed to bridge the gap between climate awareness and policy engagement. Focused on demystifying carbon pricing mechanisms like Carbon Fee and Dividend, the project equips students with accessible tools to understand and advocate for climate solutions.

The toolkit — featuring simplified explainers, infographics, videos, discussion guides, and policy postcard templates — will support Carbon Conversation Circles in at least three local schools. More than 150 students, guided by trained youth facilitators, will participate in structured discussions and send personalized postcards to local representatives.

By turning abstract policy into tangible action, the project fosters grassroots political will and cultivates a generation of climate-literate leaders ready to shape a sustainable future.

Watch Aarush’s CAP Presentation

Anas Muhammad

Sophomore, Madhupur Shahid Smrity Higher Secondary School, Dhaka, Bangladesh

Anas is a high school student from Madhupur, Bangladesh, studying at Madhupur Shahid Smrity Higher Secondary School. Guided by a vision for a fairer and greener world, he brings together interests in climate action, youth leadership, politics, and community development to inspire change. Anas believes true leadership means using one’s voice to stand up for people and the planet. He dreams of uniting communities and helping lead Bangladesh toward a sustainable, just, and empowered future.

Climate Action Project: Fair & Green Future Initiative

The Fair & Green Future Initiative combines fair trade and sustainability to promote ethical consumption and climate-responsible production. It addresses two urgent challenges: ensuring fair pay for producers and reducing environmental harm through low-carbon, transparent supply chains.

The project expands awareness of fair-trade principles, launches a national map of verified ethical producers, and distributes Champion Toolkits. It also advocates for climate-responsible sourcing through guides and outreach to policymakers and businesses, while supporting producers through wage transparency and vocational training.

By empowering producers, inspiring communities, and influencing policies, the initiative shows that equity and climate action can go hand in hand — building a fairer, greener future for all.

Watch Anas’s CAP Presentation

Asongu Awung Cyril Smith

Graduate Student, University of Buea, Buea, Cameroon

Awungafac is a veterinary medicine student and environmental advocate from Buea, Cameroon, studying at the University of Buea. He bridges science, creativity, and community through projects that promote sustainability, animal welfare, and youth empowerment. His experiences as a student leader and fashion model have shaped his ability to turn ideas into impact. Awungafac’s work reflects his belief that caring for life in all forms is both a duty and an art.

Climate Action Project: Roots Reborn 2.0

Roots Reborn 2.0 is a youth-led reforestation and environmental education project in Buea, Cameroon, focused on restoring degraded land and cultivating climate leadership. Through Eco Learning Circles, the project brings together students, farmers, and women for hands-on training in agroforestry, composting, and waste upcycling.

The team will plant and sustain 500 Indigenous trees across three sites: the University of Buea, Molyko, and Bokwaongo. They will also train 50 students and 10 farmers in sustainable practices. A Green Track Dashboard will document progress and amplify stories through the #OneTreeOneStory campaign.

With support from the University of Buea, Environment and Rural Development Foundation Cameroon, and the Buea Municipal Council, the project blends science, creativity, and community to make sustainability a shared culture. Every tree planted is an act of restoration — of land, of community, and of hope.

Carolina Svetlana Novillo Bravo

Sophomore, Universidad del Azuay, Cuenca, Ecuador

Carolina is a student at Universidad del Azuay in Cuenca, Ecuador, passionate about sustainability, social justice, and climate action. She studies International Studies, combining her interest in global relations with a commitment to local impact. During Project Green Challenge, she founded Save & Share, a youth-led initiative focused on reducing food waste and supporting vulnerable families. Carolina believes change begins with empathy, and that small, consistent actions can transform entire communities.

Climate Action Project: Save & Share

Save & Share is a youth-led initiative focused on reducing food waste and supporting families facing food insecurity. The project collects surplus food — such as fresh produce and baked goods — from local businesses and redistributes it through a collaborative network of young people, community partners, and organizations.

Alongside food collection, Save & Share fosters education around responsible consumption, resource efficiency, and social empathy. Through talks, campaigns, and hands-on activities, the project invites communities to rethink waste and recognize food as a shared resource.

Rooted in the belief that climate action is also an act of care, Save & Share demonstrates how sustainability and solidarity can move together — nourishing both people and planet.

Watch Carolina’s CAP Presentation

Cassandra Jordan

Freshman, Florida Gulf Coast University, Fort Myers, Florida, USA

Cassandra is a freshman at Florida Gulf Coast University and a youth activist on a climate-positive journey. Her care for animals and people fuels her commitment to environmental advocacy and drives her push for stronger US climate policies. Outside of activism, Cassandra enjoys reading, writing, drawing, and playing musical instruments. She hopes to help build a more equal world and uplift those facing environmental injustice.

Climate Action Project: Earth Equality

Earth Equality is a global youth initiative advocating for environmental justice and stronger climate policies. It centers the voices of those most affected by climate change — often those with the smallest environmental footprints — and seeks to build a more equitable future through education, storytelling, and connection.

The project combines local action with global outreach, using social media to share stories and build community. Whether through small wins or large-scale impact, Earth Equality believes that every step toward sustainability contributes to a better world for all.

Watch Cassandra’s CAP Presentation

Charles Amoani-Antwi, Team Sustainovators

Sophomore, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Tech, Kumasi, Ghana

Charles is a Computer Engineering student at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in Ghana. Passionate about technology and environmental sustainability, he combines innovation with advocacy to address climate and social challenges. As a member of PGC Team Sustainovators and a leader within the Youth Environmental Alliance, Charles empowers young people to take climate action through education, digital storytelling, and community initiatives. His interests include climate technology, renewable energy, and environmental data analysis.

Climate Action Project: EcoQuest

EcoQuest: Your Daily Climate Challenge is a mobile-friendly web app, designed to transform climate anxiety into daily action by gamifying sustainability and making climate habits accessible to youth.

The app offers bite-sized quests like “Go meatless for one meal,” that build lasting habits and deepen climate awareness. Each completed quest earns users points, streaks, and badges, along with a simple “Why it Matters” explanation to reinforce learning.

By turning overwhelming challenges into empowering routines, EcoQuest helps youth build confidence and take meaningful steps toward a more sustainable future.

Watch Charles’s CAP Presentation

Darinka Cerna, Team Green Tech

Graduate Student, Pontifical Catholic University of Peru, Lima, Peru

Darinka is a Law student at the Pontifical Catholic University of Peru and a member of Team Green Tech. She is passionate about environmental law and human rights, leading climate justice conversations through her university’s environmental law podcast and contributing to research and advocacy in environmental litigation. Darinka also supports youth organizing and public outreach through campus networks focused on sustainability. She seeks to use law as a tool for transformation, empowering young people to take collective action toward a more just and resilient planet.

Climate Action Project: A Drop of Hope

A Drop of Hope “Una Gota de Esperanza” is a youth-led campaign in Lima, Peru, focused on protecting beaches and oceans by reducing plastic pollution. The project combines digital outreach, community education, and hands-on cleanups.

The campaign begins with social media education on Instagram and TikTok, followed by virtual and in-person workshops in coastal districts. The final phase includes beach cleanups at two sites, supported by volunteers from Group for the Management of Water Resources, AIESEC at the Pontifical Catholic University of Peru, and local partners.

By blending awareness with action, Una Gota de Esperanza empowers youth to protect marine ecosystems and inspire sustainable habits across communities.

Watch Darinka’s CAP Presentation

Diana Mazhari

Freshman, Tabriz University, Tabriz, Iran

Diana is a freshman at Tabriz University in Iran, passionate about climate action and raising awareness through education. She believes climate literacy is the first step toward meaningful change and focuses on global awareness and quality education. During Project Green Challenge, she launched Denga, an initiative that promotes accessible climate education and empowers youth to take action. Diana hopes to create opportunities for others, just as PGC did for her.

Climate Action Project: Denge Org

Denge Org is a youth-led initiative focused on making climate education accessible and actionable. Named after the Turkish word for “balance,” Denge offers free courses on climate change and sustainable living, designed to ease the transition for those just beginning their climate journey.

Recognizing that time, money, and capacity can be barriers, Denge provides free climate action consultations. After completing a three-month course, students and young professionals take a qualifying exam to become certified climate action consultants. These consultants then support new volunteers with weekly action plans — small, achievable steps — and offer ongoing guidance and motivation.

Watch Diana’s CAP Presentation

Isabelle Deon, Team What We Grew

Junior, Jericho High School, Jericho, New York, USA

Isabelle is a junior at Jericho High School in New York and member of Team What We Grew, where she explores environmental justice through research and creative expression. She is involved in Jericho’s environmental and FFA clubs, the science research program, and the Research and Heritage Committee. Isabelle is currently studying biochar and its effects on crop yields, and she enjoys gardening, drawing, and music. Outside of school, she works with environmental organizations to create positive impact, especially in soil health and ocean conservation.

Climate Action Project: Sustainable Gardening for Future Stewards

Sustainable Gardening for Future Stewards is a youth-led initiative that introduces children and teens to environmental stewardship through hands-on gardening education. The project promotes biodiversity, soil health, and sustainable land care practices by engaging youth in workshops, planting activities, and creative learning experiences.

Through collaboration with Rewild Long Island and the Girl Scouts of Nassau and Suffolk Counties, the team will co-develop a pilot program where participants learn about native plants, pollinators, and regenerative gardening — and earn a new badge recognizing their commitment to sustainability.

By empowering younger generations to connect with nature, cultivate healthy ecosystems, and take ownership of local green spaces, Sustainable Gardening for Future Stewards fosters environmental awareness and action that can grow for years to come.

Watch Isabelle’s CAP Presentation

Joely Kim, Team Dandy Lions

Junior, Granada Hills Charter High School, Los Angeles, California, USA

Joely is a high school student at Granada Hills Charter in California and member of Team Dandy Lions. Co-founder of her school’s Sustainability Club, Beautification Committee, and recycling program, she is passionate about cultivating environmental stewardship and addressing food waste through education and community care. Joely leads ReVIVe & REscue, a nonprofit that redirects excess garden surplus to families in need, reducing food insecurity and promoting food literacy.

Climate Action Project: Produce REconnect

Produce REconnect is a community food-sharing platform designed to reduce food waste and fight food insecurity. The project connects home gardeners and community gardens with volunteers who deliver surplus produce to local food banks.

Gardeners list excess harvests on a shared homepage, and volunteers claim donations, coordinate drop-offs, and track their impact — measuring CO₂ saved and families supported through each meal. By transforming unharvested produce into packages of care, Produce REconnect builds a network rooted in sustainability, connection, and community resilience.

Watch Joely’s CAP Presentation

Monica Annim, Team Bigfoot

Junior, Koforidua Technical University, Koforidua, Ghana

Monica is a sustainability innovator from Ghana and a student at Koforidua Technical University. She co-founded Bigfoot (also the name of her PGC Team), a youth-led initiative that transforms discarded coconut husks into sustainable footwear, creating green jobs and promoting circular economy practices. Monica’s work centers on environmental entrepreneurship, climate action, and empowering youth through eco-innovation. Her leadership in clean-up campaigns and waste-to-resource solutions reflects a deep commitment to building a cleaner, more sustainable future for Ghana and beyond.

Climate Action Project: Step Green Initiative

The Step Green Initiative is a youth-led project in Ghana transforming discarded coconut husks into durable, climate-smart footwear. By redefining comfort, culture, and sustainability, the team turns waste into opportunity and empowers youth and artisans along the way.

The initiative centers on three goals: reducing waste through circular design, creating green jobs through artisan training, and educating consumers about sustainability in fashion. Workshops and outreach help raise awareness about the environmental impact of everyday choices and promote eco-conscious practices.

By combining innovation, community empowerment, and climate action, the Step Green Initiative is walking toward a cleaner, more equitable future — one step at a time.

Watch Monica’s CAP Presentation

Purnima Kabir

Graduate Student, Jahangirnagar University, Dhaka, Bangladesh

Purnima is a Master’s student in Environmental Sciences at Jahangirnagar University in Dhaka, Bangladesh. She leads climate education and community engagement through workshops, clean-up campaigns, tree planting, and butterfly rescue fairs. As General Secretary of the Nature Conservation Initiative and Program Executive at the Space and Environment Research Centre, she promotes environmental stewardship and has published research on rainwater harvesting. Purnima believes progress begins when everyone understands their responsibility to protect the Earth.

Climate Action Project: Brick-to-Block Transition Hub

Brick-to-Block Transition Hub (B2B-TH) is a youth-led initiative in Sreepur, Gazipur, Bangladesh, working to replace polluting brick kilns with cleaner, safer building practices. Traditional kilns burn coal and destroy fertile topsoil, harming both the environment and the health of workers.

B2B-TH introduces Compressed Stabilized Earth Blocks — a low-emission, unfired alternative — and trains kiln workers in this sustainable technology. The project centers both environmental restoration and worker wellbeing, offering hands-on training and a pathway to safer livelihoods.

The team will produce sample blocks, gather impact data, and build momentum toward a permanent hub for green construction. By combining climate action with care for frontline communities, B2B-TH is laying the foundation for a more just and sustainable future.

Watch Purnima’s CAP Presentation

Sasha Gupta

Senior, Wheeler High School, Marietta, Georgia, USA

Sasha is a senior at Wheeler High School in Marietta, Georgia, passionate about protecting wildlife and the nature she has always loved exploring. She is developing projects to reduce food waste — which she views as a solvable challenge — and improve access to fresh food in schools and underserved neighborhoods. Sasha believes food systems are key to climate solutions and hopes to help communities and ecosystems coexist more responsibly.

Climate Action Project: Perfectly Imperfect

Perfectly Imperfect is a youth-led initiative in Marietta, United States, that rescues cosmetically imperfect produce from grocery stores and farms and redistributes it through reduced-price sales and donations. By challenging perceptions of what qualifies as “good” food, the project reduces waste and expands access to fresh produce.

Partnering with organizations like PORCH Communities and local food banks, the team runs a twice-weekly pickup system, tracks rescued produce, and includes rotating educational info cards in each bag to raise awareness about food waste and sustainability.

Through practical solutions and community engagement, Perfectly Imperfect empowers youth leadership and creates measurable environmental and social impact. It offers a scalable model for reducing food waste while inspiring deeper involvement in climate action.

Watch Sasha’s CAP Presentation

Sidhi Sareen, Team Ecovisionaries

Senior, Government Model Sanskriti Senior Secondary School, Ambala, India

Sidhi is a senior from GMSSS Ambala in Haryana, India and member of Team Ecovisionaries, whose connection to nature began on her family’s farmhouse. She leads the Youth Empowerment Alliance, where she designs programs and innovation labs to support young changemakers. Her work bridges climate education, sustainability, and tech innovation — from kinetic tiles and rooftop gardens to a 3D floating city design recognized by the New York Academy of Sciences. Sidhi believes that bold ideas, nurtured with empathy and action, can reshape the future.

Climate Action Project: Youth Climate Innovation Network

Youth Climate Innovation Network (YCIN) is a global, youth-led platform that connects young innovators, creators, and activists with mentors, educators, and organizations. Through innovation challenges, project incubation, and community building, YCIN helps young people bring climate solutions to life.

YCIN is a collective of youth responding to a world shaped by floods, fires, and decisions made without them. It’s for those who are done waiting for permission. The network meets young people where they are, offering guidance, resources, and space to move from concept to implementation — whether refining a local solution or building something global. Through collaboration, experimentation, and shared learning, YCIN supports climate action rooted in lived experience.

Watch Sidhi’s CAP Presentation