13-Year-Old Licypriya Kangujam Is Out Here Fixing the Planet (And She’s Just Getting Started)

The world faces an undeniable climate crisis, including flooding, heatwaves, rising sea levels, and melting ice caps. It’s no longer just a distant concern; it’s happening right now, and the consequences are being felt globally. But here’s the thing: while many are still stuck in the cycle of talking about the problem, 13-year-old Licypriya Kangujam is already out there, taking action and making a tangible difference.

The most remarkable part? She’s just getting started.

The truth is, waiting for others to fix the problem just isn’t an option anymore. Licypriya has already proven that individual action can spark widespread change. She’s not waiting for tomorrow; she’s acting today, and the world is listening.

From Bashikhong to the Global Stage

Licypriya Kangujam was born on 2nd October 2011, in Bashikhong, a village in Manipur, India. Growing up in a place that felt the brunt of climate change firsthand, she knew waiting for the grown-ups to fix things wasn’t an option. At just six years old, Licypriya began raising awareness about environmental issues in her community because, even at that young age, she understood that if we don’t act now, we might not have a planet left to save.

Her message? The world needs to start taking action right now. And that’s exactly what she did. Licypriya didn’t wait for permission or for some adult to lead the way; she decided that she was the one who would lead, no matter her age. Her first few years were marked by activism, speaking out against environmental destruction, raising awareness about climate change, and even organising her own protests.

From Grassroots to Global Impact

Licypriya didn’t just talk about change, she made it happen. She turned her passion for the planet into an array of projects that are truly changing the world. Here’s a closer look at her incredible work:

• Plastic Money Shop

One of Licypriya’s standout projects is the Plastic Money Shop—a creative solution to combat plastic waste. In this initiative, people can exchange single-use plastic for essential goods like rice, stationery, and plants. The collected plastic is then recycled into eco-friendly products such as school benches, desks, and even road tiles. This project not only fights plastic pollution but also helps the community by providing much-needed supplies. It’s a perfect example of turning waste into something productive and useful.

• Documentary Film

Licypriya’s life journey will soon be shared with the world through a documentary film. The film will capture her transformation from a local activist in Manipur to a global changemaker. Slated for release on Netflix and other platforms, the documentary will be shot in locations across India and beyond, giving viewers an intimate look into her life, her struggles, and her triumphs. The documentary will serve as both an inspiration and a call to action for future generations.

• Building Houses for Climate Victims

In an effort to provide shelter to those affected by both climate change and violence, Licypriya is overseeing the construction of 100 free houses for victims in her hometown of Manipur. The first house was inaugurated on 26th July 2024, and each home is built with sustainability in mind, aiming to provide safe, eco-friendly housing for those who need it most. Her mission is not just to raise awareness about the climate crisis, but to directly address its impact on real people.

• Homeless Donations

Licypriya is also dedicated to helping the homeless in Manipur, particularly those who have suffered due to recent violence. She’s donated millions of dollars’ worth of goods to provide much-needed essentials such as food, clothing, and medical supplies. Her work ensures that the most vulnerable people in her community are cared for in their time of crisis.

• Additional Projects

Licypriya’s work doesn’t stop here. She’s actively involved in advocacy, travelling around the world to speak at global forums and UN summits about the need for urgent climate action. She’s also a Special Envoy for the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste and holds the title of Guinness World Record Holder for her incredible environmental work.

Honouring Her Impact

It’s unsurprising that someone as impactful as Licypriya has received numerous accolades for her work. She has inspired countless individuals, and her achievements have gained recognition globally.

• World Children Peace Prize Laureate (2019)
• Rising Star of Earth Day Network (2019)
• Global Child Prodigy Award Winner (2020)
• CNN News 18 Water Hero (2020)
• TN Khushoo Memorial Award (2020)
• Forbes 30 Under 30 Special Mentions (2021)
• International Women’s Day Award (2021)
• These prestigious awards are just the beginning of Licypriya’s ever-growing influence in the fight for our planet’s future.

Follow Licypriya’s Fight for the Planet

Licypriya isn’t just leading projects on the ground, she’s also using social media to amplify her voice and share her work with a global audience. With 77k followers on Instagram, she’s built a community of like-minded changemakers who are committed to making a difference. Follow her on Instagram at @licypriyakangujam to stay updated on her latest initiatives and projects. Check out www.licypriyakangujam.com to learn more about her journey, her projects, and how you can help make the world a better and more sustainable place. 

Leading the Charge for Future Generations

At just 13 years old, Licypriya Kangujam is proving that age is no barrier to making a difference. More than just a climate activist, she’s a trailblazer tackling plastic waste, helping those in need, and advocating for the environment with passion and purpose. With every project, speech, and initiative, Licypriya is lighting the way for future generations, reminding us all that the time to act isn’t tomorrow, it’s now. One voice, no matter how young, can spark monumental change, and Licypriya is showing us exactly that. She’s not just an inspiration; she’s a call to action proving that the future is in our hands, and it’s never too early to start.