WHO WE ARE
From middle schoolers to retirees, from California to the Netherlands, TCAGI would not be possible without the support of many amazing people. Here's just a few of our 650+ lovely members!
Sophie Kim
Founder & Executive Director (she/her)
Hi! My name is Sophie and I'm a student from California. Growing up by the coast for much of my life, I have witnessed firsthand the devastating and long-lasting impacts of oil spills and plastic pollution. A love and appreciation for nature was instilled in me from a young age by my surroundings and experiences. In addition to founding TCAGI, I have worked with quite a few organizations, including the Surfrider Foundation, CA Youth vs. Big Oil, and DoSomething.org.
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I'm also a Model UN delegate, and one of my life goals is to deliver a TED talk! I am beyond honored to have the pleasure of working with so many people in TCAGI who are just as passionate as I am, and I hope you'll consider joining us in our mission.
Evan Michaeli
Co-Lead, Plastic Pollution Initiatives (he/him)
Evan Michaeli, 17, lives in Newton, Mass. Evan has been an avid environmentalist since sixth grade when he lived with his grandmother in Newport, R.I. During that sixth grade year, he participated in cleanups on Easton’s Beach with Clean Ocean Access. The cleanups led to Evan passing a plastic bag bill in Portsmouth, R.I. At the end of the year, Evan presented in front of 100,000 attendees at The Ocean Race about coral bleaching. After that year, he led the charge in the Dedham bag ban where he sat on a committee who wrote part of the bylaw and did research on alternatives to bags and economic impact. Recently, Evan was the leading force in an successful effort to reduce plastics in Newton along with fighting for ocean rights and the SDGs at conferences at the UN and creating a bill to enhance climate justice education in the state of Massachusetts. In addition, Evan has won several international awards on his writing on environmental issues. Next year, he will take his activism to Macalester College in Minnesota, where he will further hone in on his expertise in environmental policy.
Claire Yang
Moderator, TCAGI Discord Server (she/her)
A childhood spent hiking and camping in the outdoors has taught me to love the natural world. As I became exposed to the realities of human impact on the environment, I knew I had to do something, but I didn't know where to start at such a young age. Through youth organizations and online courses, I developed the knowledge that allowed me to take initiative. Now, I lead volunteer groups in conservation and teach elementary schoolers about waste and how they can make an impact. I have also delved into the connections of animal agriculture and the environment, creating an initiative to bring plant-based meals to my school district. More recently, I have gotten involved in policy, lobbying for environmental legislation and leading a project to gain business endorsements for these goals.
Banks Vadeboncoeur
Video Editor, YouTube Team (she/her)
Hi! I'm Banks Vadeboncoeur (she/her), a 17-year-old from Florida passionate about using journalism and videography to combat environmental issues. I host a podcast called Beyond Limits, where I explore the science and solutions behind human ecological impacts. I also wrote a short story, Land Of Many Lives, which examines land-use change and its effects on Abenaki peoples and their environments. All proceeds from the book are directed back to indigenous communities to help defend their ancestral lands. To deepen my understanding, I spent four months on a hilltop farm in Vermont studying sustainability and climate change. I’m excited to bring this knowledge and my passion for videography to the TCAGI Climate Heroes Series.
Katie Mueller
Writer, Blog Team; Discussion Director, Discord Team (she/her)
Hello, my name is Katie and I am the Discord Discussion Director and a blog writer for the TCAGI initiative! I believe each of us has a moral responsibility owed to our environment, a home shared between us and the billions of other organisms on this planet. Whether that means dedicating your life to conservation or just making sure your trash makes it into the trash can, your effort matters either way. I've been involved in environmental conservation since I became a scout in Scouts BSA in 2019, and with my roles in this program, I hope to put more than just physical work to use. I'm so excited to be a part of this and to see what happens next! If you need to contact me, my email is katiemue1@gmail.com.
Eva Egozi
Partnerships Director (she/her)
*STATUS: INACTIVE*
Hi! I’m Eva, and I’m a 17-year-old student from Florida. As a national delegate for Model United Nations and a nationally ranked policy debater, I have grappled with the first-hand effects of the climate crisis and have observed the real-time effects of environmental degradation through a policy-oriented lens. This past year, I spent 6 months in a 4-student international cohort conducting research on the intersections between food insecurity and climate change, and recognized that the biggest disparity in action comes through a socio-cultural lens. When we as humans feel disconnected from the crisis itself, we feel less inclined to act. I intend to utilize my love for writing, creativity, and research to push for comprehensive solutions that spur collective action.
Sherry Ye
Children's Book Illustrator (she/her
Hi! I’m Sherry, a high school student from Massachusetts. In my free time, I love drawing, swimming, and spending time outdoors. Art has been a passion of mine since I was young, and I’m thrilled to work with TCAGI as an illustrator!
I'm passionate about the environment, driven by concern for wildlife threatened by pollution and climate change. We’ve taken so much from the Earth, and it's our responsibility to restore what we've harmed. I’m involved in my school’s environmental club as secretary and work with a local conservation program to address environmental issues and invasive species.
I think a lot of people have felt discouraged by the challenges of climate change, myself included. However, I want to remind everyone to remain hopeful, knowing that every step you take to fight the crisis will make a difference. I aim to use my passion for art to create illustrations that will connect with people worldwide that inspire them to take action towards a healthier planet!
Carma George
Instagram Content Creator
(She/Her)
Hi! My name is Carma George. I’m from Egypt. Living here has made me realize how real and urgent climate change is. It’s not just something we read about; it’s something we feel, and it affects our daily life. The summers are getting hotter, the air is more polluted, and the Nile is struggling. I’ve seen how these changes affect people’s daily lives, especially in vulnerable communities. That’s why I decided I need to have an impact. I care deeply about protecting our planet, and I want to use my voice and creativity to spread awareness and inspire others to take action. We only have one Earth, and it’s up to us to take care of it.
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Camron Farjami
Discussion Director
(He/Him)
Camron is a high school student at Palos Verdes Peninsula High School and a passionate advocate for environmental responsibility and global collaboration. He serves as a Fellowship Coordinator at PIVOT Think Tank, an independent cancer researcher, and a web developer for the South Bay STEM Association. His commitment to sustainability was shaped by his experiences managing student-led events and scientific projects focused on innovation and public impact. As someone deeply involved in both environmental research and student leadership, Camron is thrilled to contribute to TCAGI’s mission of building a cleaner, greener world through conversation and collective action.
Ruchi Gopal
Partnership Director (She/Her)
Hello! I’m Ruchi and I’m a high school student from Texas. My concern about the climate crisis began during summer visits to India, where I witnessed severe pollution in the air, streets, and waterways. As an avid traveler, going to other parts of the world has only deepened my awareness of climate change’s impact on landscapes and innocent wildlife. In order to act on this concern, I serve as an officer in both Student Council and Environmental Club to hopefully guide our student body towards sustainability. I am also an intern for a local STEM camp, where I teach young kids about eco-friendly initiatives. Outside of activism, I enjoy reading and have played competitive tennis since age 8. I’m thrilled to join TCAGI, as it is a chance to fuel my passion and inspire others to take meaningful action against this crisis.
Cynthia Dewi
Advisor, Children's Book Project (she/her)
By day, I'm Chintya, an Assistant Researcher at Universitas Indonesia, unlocking climate secrets through urban mosses. My passion for environmental solutions drives me to:
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Connect professionals: I help conservation experts find their calling at Job Poster in Conservation Career.
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Unravel mysteries: My research uses urban mosses as indicators of climate change impact.
Beyond research, I'm always seeking knowledge and connections. Let's help science, sustainability, and the wonders of our planet!
Ahrin Lee
Illustrator, Children's Book Team (she/her)
I'm Ahrin Lee, a student living in Singapore. It's undoubtedly clear that the global pollution and climate change crisis urgently require collective action from individuals worldwide. After learning about the detrimental impacts that our planet is facing, combining creative arts and sustainability has become my main interest. As the co-founder of the Marine Wildlife Conservation Club with WWF and a member of Bow Seat’s 2024 Future Blue Youth Council, I am engaged in exploring innovative strategies to advocate and promote environmental protection on both local and global scales. Additionally, as the team leader of Zero Waste, we organize food drives and are implementing a home composting scheme for our school community to reduce food waste entering Singapore’s landfills. With my passion for drawing, I'm excited to contribute illustrations to TCAGI's children's book project, raising awareness and sparking hope for our beautiful world.
Felix Myrie
Writer, Blog Team (he/him)
Hi! I'm Felix, and I'm from London, UK. I believe that we are at a pivotal moment for our environment, and we need focus and targeted solutions to truly mitigate the impending crisis disaster of climate change.
A key moment for my understanding of how we can truly make change was when I participated in a 'school strike' for climate change (supported by my school). I would love to be able to say that on that day, I was struck by the power of collective action, which I was, but what truly resonated with me was how futile our efforts were without government support. I learned that we need to make the change that our futures depend on.
Along with activism, I enjoy game development, cycling and enjoying nature.
Ashley-Dora Kokui
Instagram Graphic Designer, Social Media Team (she/her)
Hi, my name is Ashley-Dora. I am 17 and from Ghana, West Africa. I believe that we owe it to ourselves and those who will come after us to do something about the growing environmental problems. I am particularly interested in how some of our basic everyday habits like consuming fast fashion, wasting food, and our infinite hunger for the latest electronics exacerbate this problem. I intend to utilize my creativity and experience with different design softwares like Canva to help call more attention to this matter!
Trisha Magan
Discussion Director, Discord Team (she/her)
We live in a world of constant consumption, often leading to individuals feeling eco-anxiety: the chronic fear of environmental doom. Yet, one can transform this mindset into a positive force. Simple actions like using reusable grocery bags and recycling plastic bottles make a real difference. By sharing and celebrating these small victories with others, we strengthen our resolve and alleviate eco-anxiety. Embracing the present moment and understanding that we are not alone is the purest form of environmental awareness. Together, we can become better consumers and make a meaningful impact on our planet. So, let’s walk this path together and turn eco-anxiety into eco-action; one small step at a time, one giant leap for mankind (Armstrong, 1969).
Fathima Zahra
Partnerships Director
Hi! My name is Fathima Zahra, and I’m a high school student of Indian descent living in Dubai. Growing up as a third-culture kid, I often grappled with the question of where to call home—my native town or the city where I was born and raised. Over time, I’ve come to embrace both as my “home,” realizing that home is not just a place but something we must nurture and protect.
This perspective fuels my passion for sustainability, especially in urban development. I believe growth and progress should go hand-in-hand with environmental stewardship. As the Partnerships Director at TCAGI, I’m committed to leveraging this role to create positive, lasting impacts.
Additionally, I’ve had the privilege of interning as a research assistant, where I conducted a case study on soil erosion and its effects. Outside of my advocacy, I enjoy cycling and curating music playlists. If you’d like to share your thoughts on the environment or anything else in particular, I’d love to connect. Thank you!
Niamh Werner
Content Creator, Instagram Team (she/her)
Hi! I’m Niamh (she/her), a 17 year old from New York City. Growing up in a crowded urban area has given me an appreciation for nature and green spaces. I love hiking and spending time outdoors, and I believe that access to nature is key to growing up in a world where we value our environment. I’m passionate about making our world a cleaner place and enjoy volunteering at community events. I'm also an editor for my school newspaper and believe in the power of social media and writing to connect communities and inspire activism. In my free time, I enjoy running, reading, and scrapbooking.
​Jake Carlo Albaniel
Instagram Content Creator
(He/Him)
Hello, I'm Jake, a high school student from the Philippines. I'm really interested in Environmental Science and Sustainable Movements like Sustainable Architecture, as I'm an aspring to be one. I also have a few experience in writing and graphics, such as in journalism, essays, manuscripts, pubmats, and some few school projects, which I want to use in spreading awareness on nature's condition. Other than that, I believe that by this simple action we can change a lot on the world we live in.
Amrita Josyula
Promotion Director
(She/Her)
Hi! I’m Amrita Josyula, a high school student from Austin, Texas, and I’m excited to serve as a Promotion Director for TCAGI. My love for nature grew through Girl Scouts and deepened during my internship with the Austin Youth Forest Council, where I gained hands-on experience in urban forestry and conservation. I’m currently focused on understanding the complex interactions between wildlife and humans, seeking ways for peaceful coexistence. Outside of environmental work, I enjoy reading, journaling, and gazing at the stars—moments that remind me of the importance of protecting our home. I look forward to turning my passions into positive change and connecting with others who care about our planet! You can reach out to me at amritahjosyula@gmail.com.
Pratham Patel
YouTube Content Creator
(He/Him)
I am Pratham Patel and am currently a High School Student. I always try and make sure I'm doing the right thing and take the path forward toward environmental sustainability and protection. I feel it's super important to advocate and take action toward a cleaner environment because in my eyes, Earth is our home, and if we don't take care of it, then who will?
Byumanine Cirimwami Daniel
Instagram Content Creator
(He/Him)
I am a young professional from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, holding a degree in sustainable environment and passionate about the development of local communities. My commitment focuses on environmental education, the promotion of sustainable development, and the implementation of climate adaptation projects. I am particularly dedicated to engaging young people in initiatives that benefit marginalized communities. Working closely with rural populations, I strive to strengthen their resilience to environmental challenges. I currently serve as the representative of CYNESA DRC (Catholic Youth Network for Environmental Sustainability in Africa), where I work to inspire and mobilize youth to build a fairer and more environmentally respectful future.
Teela Steinert
Writer, Blog Team (they/them)
Hi! I'm Teela (they/them) from Germany. I've been involved in climate justice activism for multiple years.
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Sometimes, an event changes you forever. For me, there have been multiple such events: Entering a coal mine for the first time and witnessing the destruction caused. Connecting with people whose lives have been destroyed by extreme weather events and floods. Experiencing police violence against legitimate protests. But the greatest impact on me had the rare moments that allowed you to peek at what a brighter future of living in harmony and solidarity might look like.
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I want to take you on a journey and share some of those experiences with you.
Get ready!
Jannah Nuzraan
Writer, Blog Team (she/her)
Jannah is an avid reader and writer. If she's not writing another poem or story, you'd find her taking photographs of the various birds and flowers of Sri Lanka. She became a passionate environmentalist after seeing how animals' habitats are destroyed and sabotaged from deforestation to plastic pollution. She believes that everyone must be aware of how a single action can cause a chain reaction: for the better or worse. Writing is a way she can convey her opinions and thoughts to others in order to help the world. ​​
Malachi Sunguro
Writer, Blog Team (he/him)
Hey! My name is Malachi, I'm 17, and I am a high school student in the southern African country, Zimbabwe.
My passion for environmental solutions is driven by the idea that we have a role to play as humans to be stewards of the earth and I believe that awareness is the a stepping stone. I have participated in CAD competitions where we make environmentally sustainable designs and I am a MUN Delegate.
There is a lot of ignorance when it comes to issues involving the environment, but I believe this opportunity here at the Clean and Green Initiative will give me a chance to use my writing skills to make a difference in the world.
Fun facts: I run my own self improvement and study-tip blog as my main hobby and I am a mental health activist. I also enjoy performing arts and am an amateur poet.
Gloria Gao
Instagram Graphic Designer, Social Media Team (she/her)
Hi! My name is Gloria and I am a high school student from Charlotte, NC attending Weddington High School. I’m deeply passionate about the environment and graphic design. By joining TCAGI, I aim to help spread awareness about climate issues and bring attention to pressing matters related to the environment. Living in the south, I’m deeply aware of our changing climate and the risks associated with global temperature rises. I hope that my work with TCAGI allows me to express my thoughts and feelings on the impacts of climate change. Outside of school, I swim and I am also a member of colorguard in the marching band! I enjoy reading realistic fiction and autobiographies, and my favorite book is The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold.
Jack Hunzinger
Co-Lead, Food Waste Project; Board Member (he/him)
In modern day, with social media, there is no escape from hearing about climate change. Whether it’s in TikToks, in the news, on flyers, or even in school curriculum, climate change is everywhere. The good news, is that the transparency that I’ve observed growing up means that we’re already doing something right. When I was informed of TCAGI, I knew I had to join to both spread information on how to combat climate change as well as learn something to take away and carry into my own personal life. I plan on taking my love of writing and using it to help with the children’s book project to spread awareness of solutions to climate change.
Nancy Lan
Instagram Graphic Designer, Social Media Team (she/her)
Hi! I am Nancy Lan from California. My journey to advocate for the environment began when I was little. My close family lived and worked on the farm. My best childhood memories are grape-picking, strawberry-picking. Gardening class, which I took during the pandemic, ignited my passion for gardening. As a MUN delegate, I immerse myself in the world’s pressing issues, e.g. smart and sustainable cities, fast fashion… It opened up my eyes to dimensions of the un-sustainable world. Art has been a passion of mine ever since I was young. I used art work to help to protect our planet from plastic pollution. I’m excited to put forth my passions into impactful media!
Ronan Nauert
Writer, Blog Team (he/him)
Hi, my name is Ronan and I am a High School Student from Portland, Oregon. My background and experience is largely in politics, starting in 2020. I have 2 years of Political leadership expierience working to defend democracy. I got involved because I was always taught to fight for a better world and pass opportunities on. It is that same mission that inspired me to join the Clean and Green Initiative as a writer. Fundamentally, I believe that we are at an inflection point. Growing up in Oregon, my childhood was filled with lush green forests and mild summers. Those same forests are now burning every summer and those once mild summers get hotter yearly. Working with the Clean and Green Initiative, I hope I can do a small part to lessen the impact of climate change.
Isaiah Diaz
Writer, Blog Team (he/him)
*STATUS: INACTIVE*
Isaiah Diaz, from Pennsylvania, is very passionate about climate change and helping our environment. He believes that it should be a priority to take care of the floating rock in space that we call home. Isaiah is dedicated to raising awareness about environmental issues and advocates for sustainable practices. He emphasizes the importance of reducing carbon footprints, preserving natural habitats, and promoting renewable energy sources. By inspiring others to take action, Isaiah hopes to contribute to a healthier planet and ensure a better future for generations to come. His commitment to environmental stewardship is reflected in his leadership roles and community involvement.
Suchismita Roy Raika
Blog Writer
(She/Her)
Hi! My name is Suchismita and I am a highschool student from Banngladesh. Growing up here, witnessing the citizens' lack of concern and widespread neglect about the environment deeply saddened me. I almost lost hope! That never stopped me from trying to make conditions better, even if it is by a little, to bring a positive impact, to bring a change, and maybe to change the people's mind that the chips packet they carelessly threw away could one day cost them their very own lives.As someone who loves to debate and to write, I want to make my words spark awareness in people's mind.
Kaitlyn Massey
Blog Writer
(She/Her)
Hello! My name is Kaitlyn Massey and I am a senior in high school. I love to dance and work with kids. My passion for the environment started when I was young and lived in Montana. Growing up around forests, wildlife, and mountains, and seeing how they were hurt by the climate crisis was my call to action!
Srishti Thapa
Blog writer
(She/Her)
I grew up in one of the most polluted cities in the world - Kathmandu. I've seen the snow melt off of mountains I watched from my terrace everyday, I've had eyes that itched from too much pollution, it's saddening! To see nature, the one which you most adore, slowly dying. And I'll make sure I do the best I can in order to not be a part of those who wish to destroy, rather than protect. The most powerful quality we have is strength of the one's sense of righteousness, not body. So, for the sake of my sense of justice, I strive to work towards a better, cleaner world, and hope to inspire you to join along the way!