Meet Kevin Patel | American Climate Activist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kevin Patel and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kevin, what inspires you?
I’m inspired by the resilience and determination of young people who refuse to accept the status quo. Seeing how they mobilize, innovate, and advocate for change, often in the face of immense challenges, fuels my passion for climate action. I’m also deeply inspired by nature itself—the intricate ecosystems and the way every element is interconnected. This reminds me of the importance of protecting our planet, not just for ourselves but for future generations. Ultimately, the potential for positive impact and the possibility of creating a more just and sustainable world is what drives me every day.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’d love to share more about my work and journey! I’m the founder of OneUpAction International, an organization dedicated to empowering youth to take actionable steps in combating the climate crisis. What sets us apart is our commitment to not only amplifying youth voices but also providing them with the resources, tools, and platforms needed to turn their ideas into real, tangible change. We focus on grassroots initiatives, supporting projects that range from urban greening to policy advocacy, all led by young people across the globe.

I’m most proud of the impact we’ve made in a relatively short time. From planting thousands of trees in urban areas to influencing climate policy at the local level, seeing the direct results of our efforts is incredibly rewarding. The launch of our new initiative, the Youth Impact Council, which aims to scale up youth-led climate solutions globally, is something I’m particularly excited about.

My journey to where I am today has been anything but easy. Growing up as a young climate activist, I faced significant challenges, including skepticism, a lack of resources, and, at times, overwhelming odds. There were moments when it felt like the weight of the world was on my shoulders. However, I learned early on the power of resilience and the importance of building a strong support network. Collaborating with like-minded individuals and organizations, staying true to my mission, and embracing every setback as a learning opportunity has been key to overcoming these challenges.

The lessons I’ve learned along the way are numerous, but a few stand out. First, never underestimate the power of youth. Young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are the change-makers of today. Second, collaboration is essential—no one can do this work alone. Lastly, persistence and passion are critical. The road to meaningful change is long and difficult, but it’s worth every step.

What I want the world to know about me and OneUpAction is that our story is one of collective action and relentless hope. We believe that by empowering youth and fostering community-driven solutions, we can create a more just, equitable, and sustainable future. Our brand is not just about activism; it’s about action—taking concrete steps to make a difference. We’re here to support, inspire, and lead, and we’re just getting started.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting LA, I’d mix iconic spots with hidden gems. We’d start with a day in Venice Beach, then hit Hollywood and Beverly Hills. We’d enjoy art at The Getty and LACMA, spend a beach day in Malibu, and explore neighborhoods like Los Feliz and Koreatown. We’d end with a scenic drive up the Pacific Coast Highway and some shopping at The Grove. Throughout, we’d enjoy great food, from breakfast at Urth to dinner at Republique, capturing the best of what LA has to offer.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Absolutely! There are so many people and organizations that have played a crucial role in my journey, but if I had to dedicate a shoutout, it would go to the incredible team at OneUpAction International. The collective passion, dedication, and creativity of the young leaders I work with inspire me daily. They remind me that real change comes from collaboration and collective effort.

I also want to give a special shoutout to my family, who have been my rock through it all, and to the mentors who have guided me along the way, particularly those who believed in me when I was just starting out. Lastly, I’d like to recognize the power of books like The Intersectional Environmentalist by Leah Thomas and Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer, which have profoundly shaped my understanding of the world and the importance of environmental stewardship. All these influences have helped shape who I am today, and I’m deeply grateful for their impact on my life.

Website: https://www.imkevinjpatel.com/

Instagram: @imkevinjpatel

Image Credits
– Kevin J Patel