Youth-Led Conservation in Action
By Angel Jackson
Imagine a space where science feels exciting, hands-on, and completely teen-powered. That’s exactly what’s happening in Honolulu through Operation Share Aloha Teen Science Cafés.
At a recent Café, teens explored ʻOpaeʻula, Hawaiian red shrimp, and what it takes to build a healthy ecosystem where they can thrive. Like all Teen Science Cafés, the experience goes beyond the topic. It is about curiosity, creativity, and teens leading the way.
At the center of it all is Maya K., a junior helping lead Operation Share Aloha.
When asked why she joined Teen Science Café, Maya shared, “Of course, the idea of science by teens for teens in a cool café, museum, or even at the beach surrounded by like minded peers with Taco Bell, milk tea with boba, and chips and candy galore, who wouldn’t want to try that?!”
That same energy shows up in every Café she helps create.
When asked, “What’s been your favorite Café activity or moment?” Maya laughed.
“Coding and Drones, Your New Pet Opaeʻula, and even an upcoming Forensic Mystery with teachers as the alleged suspects. It is too hard to choose. We have been blessed with extraordinary experts and topics and amazing support. Thank you, STEM Next!”
Rooted in the value of mālama ka ʻāina, to care for the land, this work connects STEM to real world action. From creating a global awareness project to protect Hawaiian monk seals to leading a Sustainability Campaign that has kept over 12,870 plastic forks out of landfills, Maya and her peers are making a real impact.
Their work has reached far beyond Hawai‘i, with over 3,500 views per week globally, and has brought together more than 500 students and community partners through a student led Sustainability Fair.
Through it all, Maya continues to grow as a leader.
When asked what she is interested in, she shared, “Marine Biology is at the top of my list.”
When asked how Café has helped her grow, she said, “Being innovative and using my imagination, so important when dreaming up the next Teen Science Café.”
That mindset is already opening new doors.
“UN’s ECOSOC! I just received an invitation and I can’t believe it!”
From local Cafés to global opportunities, Maya’s journey reflects what Teen Science Cafés are all about. Youth leading, learning, and creating change.