Melati and Isabel Wijssen from Bali, Indonesia, were only 10 and 12 respectively when they started their own business, called Bye Bye Plastic Bags, in order to make the world a better place for us to live in, by minimizing the use of plastic. Having gained inspiration from people like Nelson Mandela and Lady Diana, they both asked themselves, "What can we do as children living in Bali, NOW, to make a difference?"
This question motivated them to immediately take simple steps such as convincing people to stop using plastic bags by speaking at schools and markets, and doing beach cleanups. Eventually, they also led campaigns to get the government involved in banning the use of things such as plastic bags and straws, to protect animals and the environment. Their business, which they started in 2013, has now grown to having teams in at least 15 different countries and they were named two of the 25 Most Influential Teens of 2018 by Time Magazine!
My favorite thing about Melati and Isabel's story is although they had a big issue at hand (seeing their beaches covered in trash), they instinctively knew they could start out small. They focused on what they could control and remained focused, patient, and resilient through all of the hard work. Often times, we feel like we need to go big or not bother at all when trying to solve a problem and that's the wrong mindset to approach most situations.
What's also important to note is that they honed in on what they were passionate about! Melati has stated, "Find that one thing that you're incredibly passionate about, that you think about 24/7. This is important because focusing on one thing allows you to find that tangible way that you can make a difference." Everyone has the power to make some sort of impact, no matter how young or old they might be. You also don't have to do it alone. "You need to have a team...But where do you go to get a team? We started with our closest friends. Call them, look to your teachers, your parents, and your local communities.
And if you speak from the heart, people will follow that" Melati explains. If you want to make a change in your community and even the world, you don't have to start out big. You can follow Melati and Isabel's example and ask yourself, "What can I do, NOW, to make a difference?" Then, take the first step.
Check out their website to learn more about Melati + Isabel Wijssen here!
"No Matter how old you are or where you come from, you can always lead by example. Don't wait for permission. Don't wait until you're older for someone to make that path for you. Make your own path-and go for it."
-Melati Wijssen, Co-Founder, Bye Bye Plastic Bags
