At just 12 years old, Aeshnina “Nina” sparked international attention by writing protest letters to world leaders, demanding an end to the export of plastic waste from developed nations to countries like Indonesia. What began as a discovery of foreign waste in her community has since grown into a global campaign for environmental justice. Nina has confronted some of the world’s most powerful leaders, including Donald Trump, Angela Merkel, and Scott Morrison, and spoken on international stages such as COP26, the Plastic Treaty negotiations, and the Plastic Health Summit. Through her advocacy, she has helped bring global awareness to the hidden dangers of microplastic pollution and its impacts on health, biodiversity, and children’s rights. Her activism contributed to the adoption of the European Green Deal, which will ban plastic waste exports outside the EU by 2027, proving that youth voices can help shape global policy.

Nina’s work extends far beyond speeches and letters. She founded River Warriors, a youth-led movement organizing demonstrations, cleanups, and education programs that have engaged over 3,000 children in recent years. She also established a plastic pollution museum, giving young people hands-on experiences in testing and understanding the dangers of waste in their communities. Online, her reach includes over 36,000 Instagram followers, global features with Rotary and BreakFreeFromPlastic, and an international audience through the documentary Girls for Future, which has been viewed more than 300,000 times. By combining grassroots mobilization with international advocacy, Nina is not only raising awareness but also driving systemic change, inspiring young people across Indonesia and the world to stand up against plastic pollution and fight for a healthier, more sustainable planet.