What did you do in your internship with The Ground_Up Project?
As a digital marketing intern, my main role was to research green entrepreneurs and then share their accomplishments on our blog. Later, I began assisting with customer outreach and digital analytics.
What’s the best part about working with The Ground_Up Project?
The best part about working with The Ground_Up Project was being able to conduct research and find organizations and individuals that have spent so much time and energy into bettering our world. It was very inspirational to read about the unique ways in which people are trying to be sustainable, whether it was by recycling old tires into fashionable sandals or by using crickets in their harvesting regime.
What inspires you?
As cliché as it sounds, I think that each and every individual is capable of making a positive impact on the environment, regardless of how big or small. If everyone makes a conscious effort to be sustainable in his or her daily lives, we would really be able to see a difference in our world. I think that by working with The Ground_Up Project I have really seen the strength behind this statement, and that’s what personally inspires me to be more environmentally conscious.
Why is it important to drive environmental change with small business?
Together, small businesses make up the large portion of our economy, and therefore, their impact becomes crucial. By continuously encouraging change on a smaller level, eventually the collective outcome will be grand.
What is the most valuable lesson you have learned so far?
Most of the people and organizations that I had researched were making changes about something that was close to home. The passion involved made it easier to be motivated and driven towards finding success. The most basic lesson would be to do something or get involved in something that you are passionate about, so that you are willing to go the extra mile to ensure that the end goal is achieved.
How can people get involved?
Spread the word and sign up for the platform so that we can help you help the world. By sharing your story and work, you are inspiring others to take a stand and make a change.
Ria is a senior at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill majoring in economics and minoring in Spanish and statistics. She joined The Ground_Up Project because she wanted to continue finding ways to make an impact both locally and globally. Through this opportunity she was able to broaden her horizons and discover the unique ways in which people are making a positive impact. Aside from school, Ria enjoys traveling and playing rugby.