Lily Kostka

“I remember addressing a letter to the Prime Minister when I was 9 years old, raising my concerns about the deforestation occurring in the Bellingen Shire. I didn’t receive a letter in response. That determination to have my voice heard has simmered away inside me for as long as I can remember.  

Coming out of highschool, I had no idea what I wanted. I felt that I had so many things to say, with no opportunity to be heard on a tangible level. I wanted to incite change, to work towards something rich in meaning and action. I found it at OzGREEN. The work that I take part in, from macroinvertebrate identification workshops to waste management training, has allowed me to flourish in what I do inside and outside of work, widening my horizons in all directions.

In my short time at OZGREEN I have had the opportunity to take part in the facilitation of youth groups, worked with both primary and secondary school students to discover the beautifully complex ecosystems in our pristine local rivers, and even helped organise a small tree-planting festival at a local park. Working with the OzGREEN team to turn these ideas into reality has opened my eyes to a true passion for working with young people. There is nothing more fulfilling than watching a curiosity and admiration for nature unfold as young people are investigating waterbugs, creating artworks from nature or planting a tree. It’s deeply empowering to know that I was fortunate enough to help provide these opportunities. 

Working with OzGREEN has brought me back to my roots. Being nurtured by a team of like-minded people who support me to push boundaries, discover new things and work to my full potential has been a full circle experience. OzGREEN has reminded me of how strong my voice can be. I quite often feel like that 9 year old Lily, writing her letter to parliament house, hoping for action and change. Except now, I have the capacity, support and facilities to make it happen!”