Greta Thunberg has been named Time’s “2019 Person of the Year.” The 16-year-old was chosen because she inspired many people around the world to stand up for Mother Earth. She has shown what youth activism can do, and she has already become one of the most influential environment activists today.

It all started in August 2018. Thunberg started her activism by spending her school days outside the Swedish Parliament to call for more action on implementing measures to stop global warming. She was on strike from school, and she inspired many people in her community to do the same. Eventually, her movement went viral, and millions of frustrated students around the world also walked out of classes in protest.

On the TODAY Show, Time magazine announced that they have chosen the young activist as the person of the year. Editor-in-chief Edward Felsenthal justified their choice because she has become the “biggest voice on the biggest issue facing the planet this year.” Her personal protest became a worldwide movement, and this is no small feat. She inspired millions of people in 150 countries to act on behalf of the planet, and she has put climate change at the centre of many political discussions.

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Thunberg became an icon for activism after her unforgettable speeches. Her blunt style of speaking leaves no room for nonsense, and this is exactly the kind of message that she believes is needed for the adults to hear. When she addresses the public, you can really feel her frustration and anger at big businesses and the governments. She has spoken in front of several high-profile people, but she has never once backed down because she was intimidated. The young girl showed much bravery in her activism.

One of the most important things Thunberg demonstrated through her activism is the power of the youth. Many feels as if they’re too young to make a difference, but the activist reminded them otherwise. The younger generation will be the ones inheriting the Earth, so it only makes sense that they’re the ones pushing for change. Thunberg embodies youth activism, but she also encourages it, and that’s why Time chose her.