At Global Choices, we believe in amplifying the voices of those on the frontlines of climate action. This week, we’re excited to feature Leena Joshi, an inspiring young leader who has transformed her early encounters with environmental degradation into a global movement for climate education.
Growing up in Delhi, Leena witnessed the harmful effects of air pollution in her country. A trip to Europe was a turning point—it was the first time she saw clear skies and breathed clean air. “Returning home, I was overwhelmed by the heatwaves and pollution, which led me to question why we couldn’t experience that kind of environment in my own country.”
But it was during a walk along a beach at fourteen, littered with plastic waste, that her passion crystallized. “That image stayed with me and ignited my drive to protect the planet,” Leena told us. She began raising awareness about climate change and sustainability, a passion that later led her to found Climate Conservancy Today, she works with young people around the world, building a network of climate advocates to promote education and action.
When asked what aspect of climate action she’s most passionate about, Leena didn’t hesitate: “I am particularly passionate about climate education because I believe that it is the foundation for impactful climate action,” she explained. Her organization, Climate Conservancy, has built a network of over 9,000 volunteers across more than 60 countries, all dedicated to making climate education accessible. “It’s not just about raising awareness,” Leena emphasized. “It’s about inspiring people to take action and equipping them with the knowledge to contribute to climate solutions.”
In the interview, Leena also shared her current projects and the impact they are having around the world. Right now, she is focused on scaling Climate Conservancy’s chapters program, empowering youth across the globe to become climate educators in their own communities. “To date, we have 100 chapters in 30 countries,” she noted. Beyond this, she’s expanding efforts to integrate climate justice into school curriculums, and she’s exploring the intersection of art and climate action.
We were curious to know what advice she would give her younger self or anyone just starting out in climate action. Her message was clear and encouraging: “I would tell my younger self to trust her passion and curiosity. Climate action can feel overwhelming, but even small steps make a difference. You don’t need to wait for permission or be an expert—just start. Engage with your community, learn as much as you can, and don’t be afraid to challenge the status quo. Always remember that climate action is personal; when you protect the environment, you’re protecting your own health and future.”
One of the last questions we asked Leena was why the protection of the Arctic matters to her, and her response was both personal and urgent. “The Arctic is a critical part of Earth’s climate system. It acts as a global air conditioner, regulating weather patterns across the globe. The melting of Arctic ice not only raises sea levels but also disrupts these weather systems, leading to extreme events like heatwaves, floods, and storms.” For Leena, protecting the Arctic is not just about preserving a remote region; it’s about maintaining the delicate balance of the planet and safeguarding the future for all life on Earth.
Beyond her work with Climate Conservancy, Leena channels her passion for the planet through creative expression. As a poet, she has found a way to blend art with activism. Her poem, The Climate Awakening, from her book of the same title, captures the delicate connection between humanity and nature:
“The Earth breathes, its whispers unheard,
Yet our steps are loud, footsteps that burn.
But what if we paused, just for a while,
To listen to the oceans, and nature’s soft smile?
We are bound by the roots, by the air we inhale,
The Earth and our spirits, one fragile tale.
So tread with grace, as if you’re the sea,
For in saving nature, we are setting ourselves free.”
Leena’s work is a powerful reminder that protecting the planet is not just a scientific or political challenge—it’s a personal and creative one. And it’s a mission we all share.
Leena Joshi’s passion for climate education and her commitment to preserving the Arctic are truly inspiring. Her story reminds us that everyone, regardless of age or background, can make a meaningful impact. Now more than ever, we need to take action to protect the Arctic and support young leaders like Leena, who are leading the charge.
Join us in supporting our Arctic Angels, young climate activists who are making a real difference. Your donation today can help us raise awareness, fund critical research, and drive action to protect the Arctic and the planet. Together, we can create a more sustainable future—every contribution counts.
