The future is stronger when young people help shape it. Young people are at the heart of EarthGen’s mission, and we’re proud to introduce the members of our inaugural Youth Advisory Committee.
Representing communities across Washington, these youth leaders bring creativity, lived experiences, and new perspectives that will help inform EarthGen’s programs, communications, and organizational priorities. Throughout the coming year, they’ll share ideas, provide feedback, and help ensure that youth perspectives are reflected across our work.
Evelyn Caine — Spokane
Hello, I’m Evelyn Caine from Spokane and I’m an early graduate senior at Spokane International Academy! In my free time, I read, paint, and sleep, and I’m an avid coffee drinker. When I was around 7, I used to collect loads of moss on hikes and put it in plastic bags. It drove my mother crazy, but I think that those hikes were really where my passion for the environment started. Spokane certainly has its fair share of environmental problems, but I’m hopeful for the future of this city and this world, and I’m happy to be working with EarthGen to make it a better place.
Brenda Fabian — Royal City
I started to become passionate about climate change over a year ago. While serving as a legislative page, I noticed how many organizations and groups met with their representatives to share their concerns about the environment. This inspired me to do my own research and ultimately sparked a deep passion for climate action. Also living in a community that heavily relies on agriculture made me aware of the impact that climate action can have. Since then, I have been taking steps toward becoming an activist. I am looking forward to working with peers from all over Washington state who share the same concern towards climate change. A fun fact about me is I love to dance, read, and talk to others. I use these as a way to motivate me as well as take care of myself when thinking about challenges!
Lexa Juhasz — Walla Walla
Hi! I am Lexa Juhasz. I am 15 years old and I live in Walla Walla. In the summer between 7th and 8th grade, I had the opportunity to attend TechTrek—a summer STEM program for young women organized through the Association of American University Women and held on the campus of Pacific Lutheran University. While I was there, I took a class called “Environmental Detectives.” It was an amazing opportunity that taught me so much about the impacts people have on the environment and it is one of the reasons that I am so passionate about environmental issues today. In my spare time I am part of Green Club and Envirothon (an environmental science competition between teams from different high schools). I run track and cross country, and I play the cello with my high school orchestra and the Walla Walla Symphony Youth Orchestra. I am excited to be able to connect with a group of people who are passionate about environmental issues and explore actions that we can take to have a positive impact on the environment.
Ashley Popoca — Royal City
Growing up in an agriculture based community has sparked my interest in the environment around me. What excites me the most about this program is being able to collaborate with other peers across Washington and engaging with EarthGen! As a fieldworker during the summer I have felt a rise in temperature due to climate change leading to earlier shifts to avoid the heat. I stay motivated by acknowledging the people and animals around us who can’t create laws or regulations for themselves, so I will advocate for a better planet for them. I like working, reading classic romance, and writing in my journal! I will also be attending the University of Washington this fall!
Ritvik Rajkumar — Snohomish
My interest in climate action grew from observing how easily people can feel disconnected from environmental issues when data is overwhelming or too abstract from their daily lives. That inspired me to co-found a nonprofit organization that simplifies environmental data into accessible forecasts and actionable insights, which has since expanded to projects related to national parks. My involvement with EarthGen began when I participated as a Youth Panelist at the WSTA Science Education Conference, where I communicated science-based climate solutions informed by data to educators across the state. When climate challenges feel overwhelming, I stay motivated by focusing on what I can actually build or contribute, since taking action, even in small ways, makes the problem feel less abstract and more solvable. I am excited to be on the Youth Advisory Committee to continue this work and build alongside other driven youth who are passionate about turning climate problems into real action.
Saanvi Shah — Bothell
Hi my name is Saanvi and I am from Bothell! I became interested in the environment in 4th grade, when my class raised salmon to release back into the river. I deepened my understanding of climate issues when I participated in the EarthGen fellows program earlier this year. I am excited to be able to collaborate with other climate leaders across Washington. I have noticed a lack of infrastructure needed to keep up with the change in environmental initiatives, and I hope to help change that in my town. I stay motivated when thinking about climate challenges by knowing that so many very passionate people are working on solutions. One fun fact is that I volunteer at the Woodland Park Zoo.
Milo Yamada — Puyallup
Hi! My name is Milo Yamada and I am so excited to be a part of the Youth Advisory Committee! I have a great passion for advocacy and public speaking and am excited to speak about environmental challenges and issues faced in WA with EarthGen! I have personally seen many environmental worries such as excessive littering and immense roadkill which I hope to address and talk about. On the more personal side, I am someone who loves playing and listening to music and am always open to trying new foods, hobbies, and traveling to new places!
Janae Zou — Camas
I’ve always cared deeply about the environment. I spent my early childhood in Singapore, surrounded by tropical ecosystems and the sea, and most of my life in the Pacific Northwest. I hope to educate and inspire others in my local community so that each of us can do our part to protect our Earth. I enjoy my environmental science and biology classes in school, and I believe I can use my knowledge to support efforts that combat climate change. A couple of fun facts about me are that I love thrifting and I am currently reading Barbara Kingsolver’s Prodigal Summer.