Ayan Bhakta is a 17-year-old high school student from Arizona with strong interests in public health, sustainability, and business. He serves on the global committee of the Children and Youth Major Group (CYMG) to the UN Environment Programme, where he helps propose solutions for public health and environmental challenges worldwide. Alongside this, he has written a novel on environmental sustainability and nature with the goal of expanding environmental education among young people. Through partnerships with local non-profits, this project has distributed hundreds of copies to underserved children, helping make environmental knowledge more accessible. His mission is to inspire other young individuals to learn more and to do more in the environmental space through the means of innovation and advocacy.

He was also selected as a delegate to LCOY, a youth environmental conference, where he proposed circular economy adaptation policies. Through LCOY, he has met numerous individuals involved in the sustainable development space, further inspiring his efforts to expand his book and solar projects. Beyond his environmental work, Ayan is recognized as a leader and innovator in his school and community. He leads his school’s FBLA chapter, serves as a district ambassador, and has competed as a DECA International finalist multiple times. These roles highlight his ability to bridge sustainability with business knowledge, encouraging peers to think about real-world problem solving. His involvement in both local initiatives and global platforms reflects a unique combination of civic responsibility and entrepreneurial drive.

Overall, Ayan continues to expand his impact through projects and leadership roles that bring together youth, education, and sustainability. He aims to keep inspiring others his age to contribute to solutions that strengthen communities and protect the environment.

January Young Planet Leader Ayan Bhakta

December Young Planet Leader Bernice Deng