Amariyanna “Mari” Copeny, also known as Little Miss Flint, stepped onto the national stage in response to the Flint water crisis. At just eight years old, Copeny wrote a letter to President Barack Obama urging him to see the contaminated water situation in Flint, Michigan firsthand. This letter helped bring federal attention to the crisis and eventual support to her community. Since then, Mari has continued to insist that young voices matter and that systemic failures deserve accountability.

Beyond raising awareness, Mari has turned awareness into action through fundraising and community initiatives. Her campaigns have provided holiday gifts and school supplies for underprivileged children, and she’s partnered with various organizations to distribute sustainable water filters. Along the way she has amplified dialogue about environmental justice and inspired other young people to step into leadership with confidence and purpose.

To learn more about Mari’s initiatives and support her ongoing work, visit the “Action” link below.