Nairobi, April 9 -- At just 13 years old, Karen Wanjiru has planted more than 48,000 trees across Kenya.

While many of her peers are still discovering their interests, Wanjiru is steadily restoring landscapes, mobilising fellow young people, and turning small, personal actions into a nationwide environmental movement.

"I am an environmental ambassador, the voice of young environmental conservationists," Wanjiru said during an interview with Nation, "and a climate change champion."

At the centre of her efforts is The Karen Forte Environment Conservation Foundation, which she has built on practical, youth-friendly approaches to conservation.

One of its standout initiatives is Trees for Birthdays, a programme that transforms personal cel...