MISS Earth South Africa ambassador, Hasesha Naidu is passionate about making our beloved country greener. The Durban based 26-year-old attorney, says the pageant is about empowering young women who in turn empower others.
“One should, therefore, be passionate about environmental issues, respect the earth and those who live in it and be prepared to lead by example,” she said.
“It takes hard work and perseverance because in many cases we are influencing people to change existing habits and behavior. I am passionate about environmental and social issues that we currently face. I educate people and organisations and provide solutions and alternatives regarding these issues. My dad plays a big role in this as from a young age I was made aware of environmental matters. He is passionate about sustainability, conserving our natural resources, recycling and up-cycling. I thus grew up with this awareness and made it my duty to educate others about the ongoing environmental issues that we face,” said Naidu.
The 2017 Miss Earth South Africa, now in its 14th year, empowers SA women to become advocates for climate change awareness, recycling, food security, water stewardship, waste management and energy efficiency. Upon selection the contestants partake in many projects which center around education, empowerment and the Waste Stops With Me campaign.
Naidu said now more than ever we are seeing the effects of our actions on the earth.
“More people are becoming aware of environmental issues as it is something that affects each and every living thing. Human beings are dependent on the environment to exist, however the environment is not dependent on humans to exist.”
“The earth will always replenish itself and will evolve. The question is, will it be with or without us? Society believes that environmentalists are trying to save the earth, this is not entirely true, we are trying to save all those who live here and call this place home. It is, therefore, everyone’s duty to ensure that we do something every day which will ultimately contribute to bigger and more positive change,” she said.
“The earth is our home, our only home. If we destroy our home we are ultimately destroying ourselves. It is everyone’s duty to ensure that we keep our environment clean and healthy. Most people would not litter their homes, in the same way, the earth is our home and we should not treat it any differently. Let us become conscious of our actions and realize that whatever we do has ramifications. Everyone can contribute and make a positive change, it starts with us and it starts today.”
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