Valeria is a sixteen-year-old environmental advocate based in Houston, Texas. After witnessing climate disasters in her home country of Canada, she became determined to use her scientific curiosity and leadership skills for environmental initiatives. She has served on EarthEcho’s Water Challenge Program as a Lead Ambassador for three years, where she has developed a floating wetland prototype, created ocean literacy workshops, and has spoken on panels and presentations focused on ocean conservation. She is also a Youth Ambassador for NOAA, as well as a Lead UNITER for the UnitEd Youth Council, where she developed a passion for championing women in climate efforts. Her most transformative experiences have involved learning from others’ ideas and perspectives. As a Marine Plastic Ambassador, she hopes to continue engaging with professionals and passionate leaders tackling the plastic pollution crisis and to learn how to implement effective youth-driven policy initiatives that drive systemic change.