By Manat Kaur
Tech devices are everywhere. But what happens after we throw away old phones, computers and gadgets? Electronic waste (e-waste) contains certain parts that can harm the environment and animals. Instead of ending up in oceans and landfills, when collected properly, different parts of the gadgets can be recycled or refurbished.
After realizing how his own love for electronics was harming the planet, Rafa Jafar from Indonesia started EWasteRJ to collect e-waste and educate his community.
Rafa connected with Ashoka Young Changemaker Manat Kaur to share about his work, the importance of confidence, and every young person’s power to make a positive change.
MK: Tell us about your project.
EWasteRJ is an NGO driven by youth that focuses on electronic waste. We work to raise public awareness about e-waste collection. We facilitate e-waste collection at the household/community level by providing containers to people. We then hand over collected e-waste to management firms for processing.
When did you first realize you had to take action, and how did you come up with your idea?
When I started back in 2014, I was so in love with the world of electronics until I thought about the e-waste that I was creating. What should I do with it? Just keep it? Or throw it away? I started doing research and wrote a book about it. The next year, I put my learning into action to collect e-waste around my school. I realized that as a young person, I want to be useful for the community by making a positive impact.
What was your first step?
I believe that big changes start from doing small things. My first step was as simple as influencing my family and my school to collect e-waste. And that’s where I saw potential to create a big difference. At first I was not sure, but with the encouragement from my family and my school, I felt more confident that I could have an impact. From there, social engagement has become a key part of my life.
How did you start implementing your idea?
At first, I really wanted people to know about the e-waste problem and how it can contaminate our environment. So, I spent time educating people. Afterwards, I provided a box for people to drop their e-waste. After I collected enough, I sent it to a recycling center, where they could dispose of the waste properly.
What obstacles did you face and how have you overcome them?
I didn’t have confidence. Even though I wanted to educate people, I didn’t feel comfortable talking in front of crowds. What’s more, I didn’t know how to compel people and tell inspiring stories. I overcome them by learning from others and having loads of hands-on experience.
Who else supported you throughout your journey? What role did they play?
My family played a giant role throughout my journey. They really encouraged me to take big steps to elevate my movement. My team also plays a huge role. E-Waste RJ continues because I have 10 members in my community who will always back me up.
What advice would you give to other young people who want to make a difference but don’t know where to begin?
Start small. Making a change is only fun if you are passionate about the issue. Everything you love can be used to create positive action. Don’t forget to create your team: you can support each other for a more sustainable movement.
Learn more about EWasteRJ here.
-
This article has been edited.
The First Steps series, founded by Ashoka Young Changemaker Manat Kaur, aims to demystify changemaking and show how anyone can start making a change. Follow Ashoka to learn more about #EveryoneAChangemaker and #LeadYoung.