What inspires you?

I find people from the past very inspirational. They provide a link to the way things used to be before big industry took over, which is a great way to restore faith in myself. A great many famous scientists, inventors, and authors have been people who “think outside the box”—and I’m like that too. This reminds me of how even if things are difficult, I am never alone. Sometimes, when I am surrounded by modern technology and environmental depletion, I say to myself, “Wow, I think I must have been born in the wrong century!” Learning about the past gives me motivation to fulfill my dreams and reminds me that although time and space may divide us, we are really all in this together.

Tell us about an issue that matters to you and how you became aware and involved.

Environmental issues and animal rights concern me greatly. Every time I hear about another species going extinct, another factory farm opening, or another forest being destroyed, it just makes me want to work harder to end this selfishness before it is too late. I became aware one day when I saw a bumper sticker for animal rights, which I looked up on the Internet when I got home. It led me to a website promoting vegetarianism, which I very quickly started doing. But even beyond that, it took me on a journey of self-discovery, helping me shape my values and beliefs. I believe that fate has brought me: environment and animal rights movement together.

Share your perspectives on what makes a good leader.

A good leader should be fair to all: humans, animals, and the environment. Leaders need to be able to listen to others, as well as put others before themselves. They shouldn’t just do what is popular if they truly believe that what most people believe is wrong. Above all, they have to CARE about everything that goes on in a country or organization . They should have interest in their followers.

Do you think TakingITGlobal can help you achieve some of your goals? Have we already? Please tell us how.

Yes, TakingITGlobal has already started to help! One of my goals is to raise awareness of the environment and animal rights movement and to help people become more environment- and animal-friendly. Thankfully, I have a blog on TakingITGlobal where I can publish many of my ideas and tips. I am hoping that my story can also inspire the rest of the people on the web to take action on environmental issues!