In Japan, forests are being cut down for landfills. My goal is to plant trees and decrease garbage. I never used to think about these issues. But when I came here and saw a lot of waste of paper and electricity, and air conditioning with excessively cold temepratures, I decided that I want to work for changing the environment.

In Japan, the younger generation doesn’t think about this issue. Japan is a rich country, where people have everything, and take it for granted. But if I appeal to them, they will start to take this problem seriously and then they can act. I want to hold workshops and develop a unique campaign for decreased garbage, for example using dolls and toys, as well as theater, to teach children about how to handle garbage.

What brings me awareness is religion. Thanks to religion I can see objectively. My religion is my mirror, so I can see myself clearly. I also have relatives who work in this area, and who inspire me. I want to express my feelings and be a role model. At school I studied English literature. I enjoy reading and I have to study English more, because this is a global problem, and although I would start in my city and in Japan, that’s not enough. I have to spread my views globally for international change.

University graduate
Member, Global Student Leadership program, Manhattanville College