Name: Pragna Nidumolu

Age: 17

Location: Washington D.C.

Organization: EcoTeens

Bio: Pragna has dedicated herself to promoting environmental awareness and sustainable practices since a young age. At the remarkable age of 14, she founded EcoTeens, an organization geared towards empowering youth to make a difference for a greener tomorrow. Through EcoTeens, Pragna has had the opportunity to showcase diverse voices globally via her podcast, "Green Stories," highlighting the efforts and perspectives of individuals striving for environmental stewardship.

Beyond her advocacy endeavors, Pragna has played a pivotal role in facilitating three global summits on sustainability, bringing together speakers from over 21 countries to exchange ideas and spur action. In her role as CEO of "NetZero Beauty," a cosmetics line emphasizing sustainability, she seamlessly merges her entrepreneurial passion with her dedication to eco-conscious practices, offering products that blend beauty and environmental responsibility.

In addition to her environmental pursuits, Pragna is an accomplished Indian classical dancer in Kuchipudi, refining her skills for over 12 years. Her debut performance, witnessed by an audience of 550 people, marked the beginning of a journey intertwining artistry with activism. Notably, Pragna is one of the very few Indian classical dancers in the world who performs an ancient Indian dance form where the dancer draws a picture of a Lion with her feet while dancing.

1. What is your understanding of your "purpose" and how do you think it might evolve over time?

My purpose is deeply rooted in promoting environmental awareness and sustainable practices, as well as empowering youth to take proactive steps towards a greener future. Founding EcoTeens at the age of 14 exemplifies my commitment to engaging young people in environmental advocacy, providing them with a platform to amplify their voices and showcase their efforts globally through the "Green Stories" podcast. This initiative not only highlights diverse perspectives on environmental stewardship but also enables a sense of community and shared responsibility among youth.

Through the "Million Voices" campaign, for example, I am advocating for improved plastic waste management by encouraging individuals to keep caps on plastic beverage bottles during recycling. This campaign reflects my dedication to raising awareness and inspiring actionable change in plastic waste handling.

Over time, I envision my purpose evolving to encompass broader aspects of sustainability and advocacy. As I gain more experience and knowledge, I aim to expand my impact by collaborating with diverse stakeholders, driving systemic change, and enabling a global network of young environmental advocates. My goal is to continue inspiring and empowering future generations to take ownership of their role in creating a sustainable and equitable world.

2. Why do you do the work you do? What impact do you hope to create?

I am deeply committed to my work because I believe that promoting environmental awareness and sustainable practices is essential for our planet's future. Founding EcoTeens at 14 was my way of engaging and empowering youth to actively create a greener tomorrow. Through EcoTeens and the "Green Stories" podcast, I aim to amplify diverse voices and perspectives on environmental stewardship.

The impact I hope to create is to empower the next generation to take ownership of their role in environmental advocacy and sustainability. By enabling a global network of young leaders and collaborating with diverse stakeholders, I aspire to create a more sustainable and equitable world, where environmental responsibility is prioritized.

3. How has your heritage shaped who you are and how you show up in the world?

My heritage has profoundly shaped who I am and how I engage with the world. Growing up with a strong connection to Indian culture has instilled in me values of respect, community, and resilience. These values influence my approach to environmental advocacy and youth empowerment, driving me to integrate traditional wisdom with modern solutions.

My dedication to Indian classical dance, particularly Kuchipudi, reflects a deep appreciation for cultural heritage and artistry. This form of dance not only connects me to my roots but also allows me to blend creativity with activism, reaching diverse audiences and raising awareness about important issues.

Additionally, my involvement in sustainability and environmental initiatives is informed by a sense of responsibility to preserve both our cultural and natural environments for future generations. This holistic perspective, rooted in my heritage, guides my work and inspires me to advocate for a sustainable and equitable world.

4. What have you learned from any professional or personal challenge(s) or failure(s) that you have experienced in your life?

From my challenges balancing academics, leading EcoTeens, and sustaining my cultural practice in Kuchipudi, I’ve learned several valuable lessons. The first is time management: I’ve developed strong organizational skills that have been crucial in maintaining balance and ensuring that each area receives the attention it deserves.

Balancing diverse interests has highlighted the need for self-care. Recognizing when to take breaks and manage stress has been key to maintaining my well-being and sustaining my passion for all my pursuits.

I’ve also learned to integrate my passions into a cohesive narrative. Combining my academic pursuits, environmental work, and cultural heritage allows me to create a more meaningful impact and stay true to my values.

5. What do you think today's youth has to look forward to?

Today's youth have a lot to look forward to, especially in the context of sustainability. Today's youth have unprecedented opportunities to contribute to a more sustainable world, making a lasting impact through their leadership, creativity, and commitment to environmental stewardship.