Who or what is your inspiration in business?

My inspiration is the love I have for life, creation, and those who work tirelessly to protect it. We are stewards of this planet, and it’s our responsibility to develop solutions that reduce harm and heal the damage we’ve caused. Witnessing the impacts of climate change, like Hurricane Helene, Maui’s fires, and other disasters fuels my drive to innovate. Love for people and the Earth is my compass, and it pushes me to build technologies that create a sustainable future.

How do you stay motivated?

My motivation comes from the knowledge that what I’m working on matters. Every project is a step toward a solution that could reduce the damage of climate change or create opportunities for people to thrive. I see the urgency around us, rising storms, wildfires, and a world under pressure, and it keeps me focused. When I look at creation, its beauty and fragility inspire me to keep going. The passion to make a difference sustains me through every challenge.

What would you do with the $25,000?

This funding would be a catalyst for action. I’d start with FireChef!, our closest-to-market product, and move it into production. Its success would allow me to invest in larger-impact projects like Source Bioplastic and Revolve. These innovations could drive job creation and meaningful environmental change. The $25,000 would enable me to turn vision into action, creating products that support people and protect the planet.