Meet Sarah Goody! She's a 15-year-old climate activist and founder of Climate NOW and Broadway Speaks Up. Sarah empowers young people to find their voice and take action on social justice issues they are passionate about. You can find her @sarah.goody4 online.
Congrats Sarah on becoming one of Blume’s very first Future World Shapers! Tell us about some of the current things you’re doing to shape the world for the better (big or small, don’t be shy — BRAG!)
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I am currently on week 57 of my climate strike as a part of the Fridays for Future Movement! In addition to striking I lead two youth-led organizations, Climate NOW and Broadway Speaks Up, which engage young people in the climate movement. I am currently living in Hawaii volunteering at Three Ring Ranch, the only accredited exotic animal sanctuary in the state. I am spending time caring for the sanctuary’s animals including my favorites Mo the Lemur and Patty the Zebra! In my spare time (I know it seems like there wouldn’t be any!!) I work with different media outlets like Forbes, Teen Vogue, and Good Morning America to bring attention to climate justice and youth activism.
If we asked your BFF to describe you in 3 words, what would they say?
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Creative, humorous, and hardworking!
What makes you proud to be a Gen Z?
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I am proud to be a part of a generation that defies the status quo and prioritizes justice and equality over all else. It has been incredible to see my peers standing up in the face of resistance and acknowledging their individual power. I am proud to see my generation accepting who they are and taking initiative to make the world a better place.
As a one of Blume’s Future World Shapers, what are you most excited about? What are some ideas you have for Blume’s Gen Z Advisory Council?
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I am so excited to work with Blume and represent the thousands of climate activists fighting for environmental justice. One idea I have for Blume’s Gen Z Advisory Council is to create a product line inspired by youth activists that reflects the voices of young people and the issues we care about. I am also interested in creating a Blume event in which young women come together to discuss social justice issues and the ways they can fight for equality.
Why did you decide to apply for the Future World Shapers award? If you were nominated, who were you nominated by and what’s your relationship with them?
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My mentor and good friend Ananya nominated me for the Future World Shapers award. Ananya and I have worked together with different youth-led environmental organizations planning educational events and initiatives.
Who has been your biggest inspiration in activism or otherwise?
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Michele Obama. Michele represents what I want to accomplish with my life and the legacy that I want to leave on this world. Michele puts her whole heart and being into helping others and fighting for a better future. Michele is a strong woman who doesn’t give up in the face of adversity, who instead keeps fighting and shining her light. Michele is the epitome of kindness and courage.
How have you been practicing self care and keeping busy during quarantine?
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I have struggled with depression and anxiety since a young age, and noticed feelings of sadness and loneliness dramatically amplified during the pandemic. In order to cope with these emotions I have been listening to music (I pretty much only listen to broadway..sorry not sorry), going on long walks, and reading new books. Because I’m currently located in Hawaii, my main source of activity is spending time with the animals at the sanctuary.
How do you maintain a solid self care routine with the extra initiatives and extracurricular activities you’re involved in?
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It truly is about knowing yourself and being cognizant of how much you can take on. I try not to overbook myself, because I know that in order to be productive and in the right state of mind I need to schedule time for myself. I tend to set aside at least an hour a day for relaxing and self care. I use this hour to do anything from bingeing a new netflix series to taking a bath and listening to an audio book. Because in the end, you have to be able to take care of yourself before you can take care of the planet.
What advice do you have for other teens (and even adults!) who are looking to make a difference in the world but don’t know where to start?
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Your voice is powerful. So use it! Find an issue that personally speaks to you and from there dive in and start learning as much as you can about it. The more that we know about the issues affecting our planet, the better understanding we have of what solutions need to be put in place. From there, begin taking action by volunteering for an organization, organizing actions in your community, educating others, and changing your individual habits to reflect your beliefs. As a young person (and an adult!) you have the power to change the world and inspire others in the process.
