The Problem
Our futures are in danger. Animals all around the world are on the brink of extinction, leading to the decline of their habitats, their environments, and our world. As a young person, this is the world I, along with the rest of my generation, will be inheriting. My favorite animals, orangutans, are an example of a species that are in desperate need. All three species of orangutan are critically endangered, and their habitats are disappearing fast, in large part due to the destruction of the rainforest for human products. Orangutans are a keystone species, so that means when we protect orangutans, we are also protecting the thousands of plant and animal species that call the rainforest home. There is a lack of public education and awareness about these issues. There are tens of thousands of animals facing extinction, yet most people either do not know about the issues or do not know what they can do to help. We must take action now to educate and inspire youth and others, before it is too late and these species are lost forever. It is time we stop destroying these precious habitats and start protecting them instead, not only for the animals, but also for our own survival.
Our Plan
Through the Kid Conservationist project, I work to empower youth and inspire people of all ages to take simple, accessible, and understandable steps towards making our world a better place for animals and people alike. I lead by example, with my work as an animal activist, public speaker, author, educational YouTuber, and fundraiser being critical to education, inspiration, and action on a global scale. In April 2021, I released my first book, Kawan the Orangutan, Lost in the Rainforest. I wanted to get children in my community and around the world to care about these majestic and important creatures and to inspire the next generation of conservationists. With every purchase of Kawan the Orangutan, a tree is planted in the rainforests of Indonesia where orangutans live. Over 5,000 copies have been sold or donated, meaning over 5,000 trees have been planted with this initiative. The Kid Conservationist YouTube channel has over 65 fun, educational videos, interviews with conservation experts, animal book readings, to help educate people, especially youth to not only love animals, but to also make simple changes to help our planet. With over 1.3 million views from over 140 countries, Kid Conservationist YouTube has been used as a resource for parents and educators to get kids learning, involved with animals, and taking action for our world, all while having fun at the same time. One of my favorite things to do as The Kid Conservationist is to present to kids and adults about orangutans and palm oil. I aim to educate and inspire them to take action. Over the last six years I have spoken to over 10,000 people about orangutans, endangered species, protecting our environment, and empowering kids to use their voice for change. These presentations are held at schools, zoos, and museums and they are critical to inspiring the next generation of changemakers and “Kid Conservationists.” Through my children’s book, YouTube channel, presentations and local action, I aim to stop the destruction of animal habitats both near and far, while also inspiring the next generation to action NOW.
