As I engage in conversation with Kiara Kaur, the air fills with an electrifying sense of the future. At just seven years old, Kiara, a prodigious talent and a beacon of hope, articulates her vision with the clarity and passion of a seasoned leader. Her achievements are staggering: the world’s youngest non-stop book reader at four, the youngest TEDx speaker at five, the youngest keynote speaker at COP28, COY18, World Expo 2020 Dubai and Commission of Status of Women, United Nations at six, and an author at seven.
Kiara’s opening words set the tone for our conversation: “I started reading at the age of two and speaking at the age of three. I learned about the climate crisis, gender inequality, and other things, and I thought like, ‘we have to do something about it right now.’ The best time is right now. We have to start.
Her insight into complex issues like climate change and gender equality, usually reserved for those much older, left me in awe. At an age where most children are learning to navigate their immediate world, Kiara was already pondering over global issues. “My parents used to help me and tell me about the climate crisis. It is really important to me, so I learn more about it myself now,” she says, illustrating the blend of self-driven learning and guided understanding that forms her worldview.
When I ask her about inheriting our planet from the ‘oldies’ that have destroyed it, her response is a blend of disappointment and hope. “It feels destructive, like with deforestation. We’re destroying nature’s home, and we’re destroying the skin of planet Earth.”
Kiara’s thoughts on climate change are a wakeup call. “We, the youth, should be involved in climate change. In fact, everybody should be involved in climate change because it is a really important issue. Future generations won’t be able to enjoy the same things we do if it continues,” she emphasizes, showcasing a remarkable grasp of the urgency and inclusivity needed in addressing our pressing environmental issues. Her advice? “We need to follow the ‘Three Rs’ more: reduce, reuse, and recycle.”
Her approach to gender equality is equally impressive. “Gender inequality basically means that men and women don’t get equal. A man can be a CEO, and a woman can also be a CEO; they can get equal jobs. It’s not physical power; it’s the intellectual power,” she says, challenging the stereotypes and barriers with the wisdom of someone far beyond her years.
Discussing her dreams, Kiara’s ambitions are as boundless as her spirit. “When I grow up, I want to be a leader of a country,” she declares, her eyes alight with the possibility of making a real difference in the world.
But it isn’t just her dreams that strike me; it is her understanding of the importance of role models and support. “My grandmom and my granddad energize and support me to do more in my life,” she shares, underscoring the vital role of family in nurturing young minds.
As our conversation draws to a close, Kiara’s message is clear and powerful: “We should follow our passion and be happy about it.” Her words, simple yet profound, are a reminder of the potential each one of us holds to effect change. A beautiful soul with a potent voice for change!
