In a world facing unprecedented environmental challenges, young people are stepping up as the change-makers we need. The Iris Project is at the forefront of this movement, shining a light on young people leading the way in protecting and restoring our planet. The Iris Project is dedicated to the memory of Iris Goldsmith, a passionate young environmentalist who, at just 15 years old, tragically lost her life in an accident. Iris had a profound connection to the natural world, with a particular love for animals and the sea. In her honour, the project aims to foster a global community of young people committed to protecting and restoring nature, recognising the powerful role youth already play in addressing the climate and ecological crises.

 

Supporting Youth-Led Solutions to Global Problems

The Iris Project believes in the power of young people to lead the way in protecting and restoring the planet. Through a global network and annual award, The Iris Prize supports youth-led initiatives that create tangible, lasting change in their communities – creating a ripple effect that strengthens ecosystems locally and inspires global action. 

From ideas to established projects, The Iris Prize provides young leaders with both financial support and global recognition, enabling them to grow their projects, scale their impact, and inspire others to take action. Whether they’re working on restoring vital ecosystems, protecting endangered species, or reducing plastic waste, the youth supported by The Iris Project is proving that the next generation has the power to create lasting positive change, both environmentally and socially. 

The Ripple Effect of Giving: The Big Give’s Christmas Challenge

The urgency of addressing climate change and biodiversity loss has never been more apparent. As we look toward 2025 and beyond, it’s crucial that we continue to invest in the ideas and innovations that will protect our future. This December, The Iris Project is asking for your support to help young people make a meaningful impact on the world.

From the 3rd-10th of December, for one week only, every donation to The Iris Project will be matched through The Big Give’s Christmas Challenge! This means that every £1 you donate will be doubled, increasing the impact of your contribution and providing even more support for youth-led environmental projects.

The goal of the campaign is to raise £50,000, which will be doubled to £100,000 with the matching funds. This money will go directly towards supporting youth-led initiatives focused on restoring nature, safeguarding biodiversity, and creating sustainable solutions that benefit both local communities and the planet as a whole.

Making a Difference Through Youth-Led Action

Since its inception in 2022, The Iris Project has invested over £547,000 in youth-led environmental action. This funding has helped bring innovative solutions to life, supporting young leaders, and demonstrating that small, community-based actions can have a global impact.

The passion, creativity, and drive of the youth supported by The Iris Project are certainly inspiring. These young people are not waiting for others to take the lead – they are stepping up to take action as the next generation of change-makers, fighting for the ecosystems we all depend on. With your help, their impact can reach even further. 

By donating to The Iris Project this December, you will help fuel a movement of young pioneers who are transforming the future of sustainability. Your contributions will support projects that inspire hope, empower communities, and create lasting environmental change. 

Donate today: The Big Give – The Iris Project Christmas Challenge

 

The Iris Project’s vision of empowering youth to make meaningful environmental and social change aligns closely with the mission of Journeys With Purpose, a leading travel organisation that encourages people to embark on transformative journeys that foster a deeper connection with the natural world. Journeys With Purpose places great emphasis on the power of people, believing that purposeful action and passion can catalyse real change. By donating to The Iris Project, you can join Journeys With Purpose in supporting innovative grassroots initiatives around the world.

Article by Kim Bridgeman