Throughout October 2023, Turning Green’s 13th annual global initiative engaged thousands of enthusiastic and purpose-driven participants from over 538 schools across 48 states and 58 countries. We deeply appreciate and honor the contributions, time, energy, passion, dedication, and growth demonstrated by each participant, recognized both by us, their schools, and the global community.
The PGC 2023 Finalists represent a group of 14 exceptional young leaders hailing from eight countries: Bangladesh, The Democratic Republic of the Congo, India, Iran, Indonesia, Mexico, Suriname, and the United States. They were chosen from a diverse pool of participants worldwide, selected based on their points, level of engagement, challenge victories, quality of work, performance on a final exam, and a video recap of their 30-day journey in October. Turning Green extends their heartfelt congratulations to all participants for their outstanding work and unwavering commitment to PGC, climate change mitigation, public health, our communities, and the planet.
Over four days, the PGC Finals brought together Finalists in San Francisco, CA, fostering celebration, collaboration, and advocacy for the Project Green Challenge 2023 cohort. In the subsequent five months, from November 2023 to April 2024, Finalists will embark on a journey to conceptualize, develop, and execute innovative, feasible, and impactful Climate Action Projects (CAPs). These projects aim to address real-world challenges on campuses or within communities, taking a solutions-oriented approach. Finalists will present the measurable impact of their completed CAPs during the PGC Finals — Part 2 in April 2024.
Hailing from a small village in South Sulawesi, Indonesia, Samintang embodies the spirit of resilience and determination as a First Generation College Student (FGCS). Her journey is a testament to her multifaceted nature, encompassing various roles as a leader, speaker, content creator, social entrepreneur, researcher, full-time worker, peer educator trainer, environmental advocate, accounting student, and coach for public storytelling.
Driven by a profound passion for advocating on behalf of vulnerable populations, especially women, children, and the environment, Samintang’s aspirations extend beyond personal success. She envisions herself as a catalyst for change, aspiring to assume leadership roles in the public sector and become an expert in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Sustainability. Her ultimate goal is to challenge and disrupt inequitable systems while championing environmental justice.
Following a rigorous month-long competition, Samintang emerged as the sole representative from Indonesia and Southeast Asia in the prestigious PGC 2023 cohort. Her selection highlights not only her individual merit but also the potential for her to amplify her advocacy on a global scale, representing her community and region with distinction.
During her time in San Francisco, Samintang’s dedication and ingenuity were recognized as she emerged as the 1st Winner of the PGC Presentation 1 competition. This achievement, which came with a prize of 1,000 USD, serves as a testament to her exceptional public speaking abilities, as well as her innovative approach to addressing environmental issues. Samintang’s winning presentation not only showcased her deep understanding of sustainability challenges but also highlighted her passion for driving meaningful change in her community and beyond. Her ability to captivate audiences with her ideas and insights reflects her commitment to advocating for environmental stewardship and promoting sustainable practices.
This accolade further solidifies Samintang’s position as a leader in the field of climate action and sustainability. As the sole representative from Indonesia and Southeast Asia in the PGC 2023 cohort, she has demonstrated her capacity to inspire others and effect positive change on a global scale. By winning the PGC Presentation 1 competition, Samintang has not only earned recognition for her outstanding achievements but has also gained a platform to amplify her message and influence others to join her in the fight against climate change. Her success serves as an inspiration to aspiring environmental advocates and underscores the importance of individual action in addressing pressing global challenges.
