UPG Viewer

20 Years Old

China

Female

Yes! That is really who you are!

My name is Kexin, and I’ve always been passionate about learning and contributing to the world around me. Growing up in China, I developed a deep sense of responsibility towards my community and the environment, which inspired me to take action on global challenges, especially in the area of sustainability.

Throughout my journey, I’ve had the opportunity to participate in various volunteer projects that have helped shape my understanding of community and environmental work. These include the GRN Beach Clean-up, where I contributed to reducing plastic pollution along our coastlines; volunteering at a women’s shelter organized by the Women’s Aid Organization, where I supported efforts to empower women; assisting at My Pets Dog Shelter, caring for animals in need; and participating in tree planting activities with the Free Tree Society, which deepened my appreciation for the role of trees in combating climate change.

One of my strengths is my ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and inspire collective action. I believe that real change happens when we come together, and I’ve always sought out opportunities to foster collaboration and community engagement. However, I recognize that I still have areas to grow, particularly in project management, but I’m eager to keep learning and improving in this area.

What drives me the most is the belief that small actions can lead to significant impacts. I’m committed to being a lifelong learner and doer in the sustainability space, and I see the UPG Sustainability Leadership program as an incredible opportunity to further my ability to make a difference. I’m excited about the chance to work alongside like-minded individuals who share a vision for a more sustainable future.

Passionate about Sustainability: I have a deep commitment to environmental and social issues, driving me to take action and inspire others. Collaborative: I excel at working with others and believe in the power of teamwork to achieve common goals. Strong Communication Skills: I am effective at conveying ideas clearly and persuasively, both verbally and in writing. Leadership Abilities: I have experience leading projects or initiatives, motivating others, and guiding teams toward success. Creative Problem-Solving: I think innovatively to overcome challenges and develop effective solutions. Empathetic and Culturally Sensitive: I connect well with people from diverse backgrounds and respect different perspectives. Resilient and Adaptable: I can navigate obstacles and adjust to changing circumstances with a positive attitude. Proactive and Action-Oriented: I take initiative and am committed to making a tangible impact in my community. Organizational Skills: I am capable of planning, organizing, and managing projects efficiently. Knowledgeable in Sustainability Practices: I have a solid understanding of sustainability principles and am eager to continue learning.

The strength that I choose is collaborative. A couple of years ago, I participated in a tree-planting project organized by the Free Tree Society. While working with the team, I noticed that there was a disconnect between volunteers, local authorities, and the community regarding the scope and long-term impact of the initiative. I used my collaborative skills to bridge these gaps by organizing meetings where everyone could share their ideas, concerns, and goals. Through open dialogue, we developed a more comprehensive plan that included not just planting trees, but also ensuring their long-term care and educating the local community about the importance of reforestation. The success of this project showed me how powerful collaboration can be in achieving sustainable outcomes.

Yes, I have participated in several volunteer projects that have been both rewarding and educational. One of the projects I was involved in was the GRN Beach Clean-up, where I helped clean the shorelines, removing plastic waste and other debris. Through this experience, I learned the critical importance of collective action in addressing environmental issues and how small, local efforts can contribute to larger, global solutions. It also deepened my awareness of the severe impacts of plastic pollution on marine ecosystems.

Undergraduate: I have completed an undergraduate degree

If I were to lead a sustainability-related project, I would focus on creating a Community Urban Garden and Composting Program. This project would aim to encourage local residents to grow their own food in an environmentally sustainable way while reducing food waste through composting. The initiative would involve setting up a shared garden space in a public area where individuals can participate by growing fruits, vegetables, and herbs. In addition to this, we would establish a composting station where community members can drop off organic waste, which will then be turned into nutrient-rich compost for the garden.

This project is important because urban areas often lack green spaces, and residents may feel disconnected from nature and sustainable practices. By providing a space for communal gardening and composting, we would address food security, reduce waste, and foster a sense of community. The garden would also serve as an educational tool to teach people about sustainable agriculture, composting, and the importance of reducing food waste.

One challenge I expect to face is convincing people to participate in the program. Many community members may not initially understand the benefits of growing their own food or composting their waste. To overcome this, I would host awareness workshops to educate residents about the environmental, health, and financial benefits of the project. I would also reach out to local schools, businesses, and organizations to build partnerships and increase participation.

Another challenge could be securing the necessary funding and resources for the initial setup of the garden and composting system. To address this, I would apply for local government grants, seek sponsorship from environmentally conscious businesses, and engage in community fundraising efforts. Additionally, I would approach local hardware stores and gardening suppliers for donations of tools, seeds, and materials.

Managing the maintenance of the garden could also pose a challenge, especially if participation fluctuates. To solve this, I would form a volunteer committee responsible for organizing regular maintenance activities and ensuring the sustainability of the project. The committee would rotate tasks and create a schedule to keep the garden running smoothly.

About 100 people

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https://drive.google.com/file/d/1PQ4xZjkMkm3UkXpjn67Fi9AlHgU1yrtA/view?usp=drive_link

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