Lefteris Arapakis | United Nations - Young Champion of the Earth - Europe

An Interview with Lefteris Arapaki, Co-founder & Manager of Enaleia.

What is a typical day like for you?

I usually start with a meeting with the rest of the team. We discuss what is going on in every port and the actions that need to be taken. Then, I have some meetings with partners, journalists, recycling factories, consultants, local stakeholders. I am checking the monthly financial and impact report. Usually, during the day I call some of the fishermen in the ports. In the evening, I go to the local port to check the plastic catch of the day, and then I either go sporting or acting.

What path did you choose after leaving school?

Management and Economics, with an emphasis on training. Then, I realized that I want to use these skills to create social and environmental impact, so I chose social entrepreneurship.

What would you most like to change in the world/environment today?

Create win-win synergies between human societies and the marine environment. Eradicate marine plastic pollution.

What are the fondest memories from your upbringing that you feel impacted your life choices and lifestyle today?

That every Sunday we used to have a big nice gathering with family and friends and we celebrated the little things in life. That my father took me with him to his job during nights and in summer. A discussion with my grandpa, who taught me that I have full responsibility for my life, my choices, and my results. When I discovered the magic world of books. When I started acting with my friends and learned not to be afraid of social judgment. When the crisis started and I had to study in the day and work at night.