Wangari Maathai

"If you have not grown in insight and understanding, you have aged but not matured."

"We are responsible for everything that happens around us."

"It is difficult for young people to grow up without fear."

"The culture of silence and denial pervades many societies."

"Sometimes, but only sometimes, our circumstances permit us to choose."

"I am a woman of African descent, born in Kenya, and this gives me a unique perspective."

"We are in charge of our own destiny."

"Feeling hopeful doesn't mean you ignore all the many problems we face."

"When we connect the dots between what we do and how it impacts the environment, we awaken to our purpose."

"You will find that those who object most to segregation and provocation are often those from whom we would expect the greatest truth."

"We have a responsibility to help communities protect their environment."

"The world is watching and waiting for those of us who believe in democracy to ensure that it works."

"This is the root of the conflict I have found in my life."

"You are not born a leader, you become one through your actions."

"The most important thing is that we remember who we are and what we stand for."

"Education and empowerment are the basis of freedom."

"We must become brave enough to love life."

"All our activities have moral dimensions."

"Hope is a very powerful force."

"You cannot awaken to consciousness unless you are willing to see."

"The youth should be prepared to be global citizens."

"When we act on the environment with a positive purpose, we heal ourselves."

"We all have a common interest in the future of our planet."

"What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make."

"I believe that we are all accountable for what we do."

"The inspiration I get from nature is something I cannot do without."

"You must struggle to achieve what you want."

"We are the first generation to have the knowledge of how to care for our planet."

"The Earth is our home, and we must take care of it."

"Democracy is not a gift, it is something you must fight for."