Samintang (she/her)

How are you using education to build more sustainable and equitable communities? Tell us about your EE work and impact.

I believe that young people are the least responsible for climate change but the most affected by it, and environmental education is a powerful tool to navigate this dilemma. To tackle these issues, I have strived to create impactful initiatives through writing, speaking, and acting for climate education.

As the Founder and Executive Director of Climate Catalysts, I led the Climate Catalysts Fellowship Programme, which successfully empowers young people in advancing the UN Global Goals through a 5-week fellowship, a 2-week capstone project development, and a  1-week climate action initiative. This program has facilitated the planting of 100 trees, forged over 30 national and international partnerships, and secured two prestigious international grants and recognitions from the U.S. Department of State and Turning Green to support Climate Catalysts' programmatic activities and organizational growth. We are also in the final stage of publishing our book this year, titled “Catalysts of Change: Navigating Climate Change Together—The Climate is Changing, but Why Aren’t We?”

Most recently, I was one of 14 young people participating in the Project Green Challenge in the San Francisco Bay Area. This was an eco-summit designed to inform, inspire, and mobilize students globally around climate action, public health, sustainability, social justice, and advocacy.

Currently, I am working as the Project Lead and Curriculum Specialist for the Young-Eco Stars Programme (YES-P) and was honored as the winner of the Citizen Diplomacy Action Fund (CDAF), sponsored by the U.S. Department of State and Global Ties U.S. This award supports our efforts to empower youth from Indonesia, the USA, and Nigeria through climate leadership and a comprehensive training program.

Tell us about your journey to where you are today. What inspired you? What has your path been like?

My passion for climate activism and women's rights is deeply rooted in my diverse experiences and commitment to making a difference. My journey began as an exchange student in the United States, where I contributed to climate action by participating in various volunteering programs across Nevada and New Orleans. With over five years of experience in climate empowerment and environmental education, I have become a formidable advocate for these causes.

A pivotal moment in my career occurred in 2022 when I was named the youngest invited speaker at the Plenary Hall of the Indonesia Development Forum Agenda. There, I passionately addressed industrialization paradigms and edible bioplastic innovation directly to President Joko Widodo. Currently, as the Local Engagement Coordinator for the TechGirls Programme with Legacy International, I continue to empower women in STEM fields and guide them in conducting community action projects.

In 2023, after engaging in various volunteer roles and speaking on national and international stages, I was selected to serve in the SUSI Alumni Grant by Meridian International Center, where I launched Climate Catalysts—a movement that continues to grow today. Five months later, I was honored as a Presenter at the SUSI CAP Showcase and awarded 1st Winner in the Project Green Challenge in 2024.

How can people learn more about or support your work?

People can first learn more about my work with Climate Catalysts, SDGs Center for Eastern Indonesia, and the Young Eco-Stars Programme by visiting our websites and following us on social media. Our websites offer detailed information about our initiatives, the impact we have made, and upcoming events. Social media platforms provide regular updates and insights into our activities and successes, keeping you informed about our progress and opportunities to get involved.

To support our work, you can consider several options. Volunteering your time helps us directly with our projects and events. Donating funds contributes to the sustainability and expansion of our programs. Additionally, partnering with us on specific projects or campaigns allows for collaborative efforts that align with our mission. For those interested in a more personalized approach, reaching out through our contact forms or actively participating in our events and campaigns is highly encouraged. Your support—whether through volunteering, financial contributions, or partnerships—plays a crucial role in advancing our goals of climate leadership and empowerment.

A Little More About Me

What book, film, or art piece has had the greatest impact on you?

The book that has had the greatest impact on me is “Not Too Late: Changing the Climate Story from Despair to Possibility”, edited by Rebecca Solnit and Thelma Young Lutunatabua. It offers profound insights into shifting the narrative around climate change from one of despair to hope, inspiring actionable steps and new perspectives.

What makes you most excited to be an EE30U30 awardee?

Being an EE30U30 awardee excites me as it offers a distinguished platform to amplify my efforts in climate activism and women's rights. It presents an opportunity to connect with a network of innovative peers, access valuable resources, and collaborate on transformative solutions to address critical environmental and social challenges. This recognition not only validates my commitment but also enhances my capacity to drive meaningful change on a broader scale.

How do you recharge?

I recharge by walking around, going to the mountains, sharing experiences with my mom, listening to classical music, visiting my father’s garden and rice field, and playing with my cat. These activities help me relax and regain my energy.

What song or artist has uplifted you lately?

Lately, I have been uplifted by “Fırtınadayım” by Mabel Matiz. Its captivating melody and emotional depth have been a source of inspiration and comfort for me.