Young Sustainability Leader
Kate Brodie
Kate Brodie is a passionate young leader dedicated to expanding Charlotte’s tree canopy and promoting sustainability. As a TreeMaster with TreesCharlotte, she leads tree planting demonstrations, educational sessions, and volunteers, actively engaging the community in sustainability efforts. Kate’s work on the Little Sugar Creek Greenway enhances this sustainable transportation corridor, and her commitment to environmental education inspires her pursuit of a future in Environmental Studies/Science, where she continues to advocate for a greener Charlotte.
Luke Sawyers, Luke Dailey, Bodie Welp
Luke Sawyers, Luke Dailey, and Bodie Welp, 8th-grade students from Piedmont Open IB Middle School, demonstrated exceptional leadership and initiative through their project to install bike racks at their school. Collaborating with local government and Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools, their efforts promote biking over driving, reducing carbon emissions and encouraging student health. Located near the Little Sugar Creek Greenway and several neighborhoods, the bike racks improve safety and access, inspiring future generations to embrace alternative transportation and reduce their environmental impact.
Global Conservation Club (GCC)
The Global Conservation Club (GCC) at Charlotte Lab School is a student-led group committed to environmental sustainability, focusing on biodiversity conservation, green campus beautification, and community outreach. With a strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion, GCC engages students of all backgrounds in climate action and sustainability initiatives. From promoting sustainable transportation to reducing waste and establishing a school garden, GCC empowers students to take action on local and global environmental challenges, making a significant impact on both their school and community.
Liam Kelly
Liam Kelly has transformed Kellys’ Community Kitchen (KCK) into a model of sustainable food recovery, blending data-driven efficiency with a commitment to feeding those in need. Under his leadership, KCK has not only increased food donations by 20% but has also minimized environmental impact through strategic partnerships and operational optimizations. Liam's leadership ensures KCK is not just a food charity but a force for systemic change in the local food system. By balancing operational efficiency with environmental responsibility, he has positioned KCK as a sustainable model for food recovery. His efforts have not only provided the equivalent of 5,600 free meals in the past year but also saved an estimated 400,000+ gallons of water through food waste prevention.
