Sustainability advocate Dr Yasmin Rasyid shares how she pursued a career in environmentalism and her thoughts on youth-led initiatives for a greener planet
Marine biologist and environmentalist Dr Yasmin Rasyid has devoted her entire career to advancing sustainable development and inspiring youth for climate action. As the sustainability director at real estate company Lendlease, she spearheads the company’s goals to bring its carbon emissions down to net zero by 2025 and absolute zero carbon by 2040.
The 2023 Gen.T Tribe member also founded EcoKnights, a non-government organisation that collaborates with various stakeholders to foster and facilitate sustainable actions for a greener planet.
Below, Dr Yasmin shares her passionate vision of environmental sustainability through renewable energy, sustainable building materials and transportation technologies.
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What motivated you to pursue a career in environmentalism?
Dr Yasmin Rasyid (YR): My curiosity was what propelled me into it. I stumbled upon environmentalism by chance, luck or some mysterious force in the universe. I decided to follow my passion for learning the environmental sciences. It fulfils me knowing that I can apply my knowledge to real-world problems and find solutions that make a difference. I feel so fortunate to be able to combine what I love with what I do for a living, and constantly hone my skills in this field. When I was young and passionate about environmental issues, I didn’t know it would become my career. My 18-year-old self would never have imagined I would be where I am now.
As the director of sustainability for Lendlease Malaysia and founder of EcoKnights, you have a wide range of responsibilities. What sparked your passion for sustainable development and youth leadership for climate action?
YR: I have always been motivated to give back to people, solve meaningful problems and do good. This drives my passion for sustainability because I believe we are responsible for protecting our finite planet from unlimited exploitation and degradation. I want to learn, apply and share the best practices and solutions for living in harmony with nature and each other.
I also want to empower the younger generation to become leaders and agents of change in the global environmental movement. That is why our programmes in EcoKnights are designed to provide youth with knowledge, skills, experiences and opportunities to make a positive difference in their communities and beyond.
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