#BigThingsThursday is a weekly series of short interviews with people who are doing big things for the community and for the world. If there's someone you think I should highlight, email me: BigThings@LucyKalantari.com.
Meet Brett Edwards, aka, Mr. Eco: artist and environmental activist teaching kids all over the globe how to make sound choices and changes for the benefit of...well, ALL beings! With his love for hip-hop and wonderful word-play, he connects with his listeners while stirring enthusiasm for environmental health.
Q. BIG THINGS begin with an intention, what is yours?
A. I believe monumental changes begin with youth. My intention is to spark the mind, empowering as many youth as I can to become "EcoHeroes" around environmental issues.
Q. How are you fulfilling this intention?
A. Through music! Specifically school assemblies and music videos on youtube. Up to this point, I have reached 140,000+ children at in person shows and my YouTube views are 785,000+. Next step is a kids television show that is in the early stages :)
Q. What barriers have you encountered, and how have you dealt with them?
A. Far too many to mention... But the main one that is a constant is belief in myself. Because if you don't believe in yourself nobody else will. I have dealt with this by truly finding out what motivates me and always focusing on the WHY. And I feel as if I am being "pulled" not "pushed" on this mission. Gotta do soul searching! Meditation rocks:)
Extra: Share a favorite quote that keeps you motivated.
“He who says he can and he who says he can't, are both usually right.”
–Confucius
Thank you, Brett, for your incredible efforts and at spreading awareness and inspiring action to care for our beautiful planet.
I'll leave you with his latest music video, "Bag Monster" from his album Renewable Rap. For more info, check out his website, www.mreco.org.