Melati Wijsen

From 12 to Global Impact: Melati Wijsen – Empowering a Generation of Changemakers

At just 24, Melati Wijsen is a full-time changemaker, published author, and the visionary founder behind YOUTHTOPIA. Her journey began remarkably at the age of 12 with the launch of Bye Bye Plastic Bags in 2013, demonstrating an early and profound commitment to a better world. Today, Melati channels her energy into YOUTHTOPIA, a global platform dedicated to empowering young people with accessible capacity-building programs.

Drawing upon over a decade of frontline experience, Melati has become a prominent voice on global stages, including TED and the UN. She has co-chaired the World Economic Forum GPAP committee, served on the inaugural Expert Advisory Panel for the Earthshot Prize, and premiered her impactful film, Bigger Than Us, at the 2021 Cannes Film Festival. In 2023, she even introduced President Barack Obama in Amsterdam.

Now, Melati’s focus is squarely on youth empowerment through YOUTHTOPIA’s concise, peer-to-peer programs, equipping young individuals with the essential tools to become effective changemakers. Her recently published book, Change Starts Now (Harper Collins Holland, January 2025), shares 100 invaluable lessons gleaned from her extraordinary journey, solidifying her role as a guiding force for a new generation of impact leaders. Her vision is clear: to make YOUTHTOPIA the definitive platform for young changemakers worldwide.