Sophia Kianni is a prominent Iranian-American social entrepreneur and climate activist, recognized for her impactful contributions to climate advocacy. As the founder and president of Climate Cardinals, a nonprofit organization she established in 2020, Kianni has led efforts to provide climate change information in multiple languages. Under her leadership, Climate Cardinals has mobilized over 8,000 volunteers, translating more than 750,000 words of climate information, thereby making critical knowledge accessible to diverse communities worldwide.

Kianni’s activism gained momentum during her teenage years, where she became a national strategist for Fridays for Future and coordinated national partnerships for Zero Hour. Her commitment to climate action was exemplified when she participated in a hunger strike organized by Extinction Rebellion, demanding accountability from political leaders. This experience not only showcased her dedication but also positioned her as a voice for youth in climate discussions.

In 2020, Kianni was appointed by United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres to the Youth Advisory Group on Climate Change, making her the youngest advisor in U.S. history. Her role involved advising on global climate strategies, and she has since represented youth perspectives at significant events, including COP26 and COP27, where she advocated for urgent climate action.

Recognized for her leadership, Kianni has received numerous accolades, including being named one of Forbes’ 30 Under 30 for Climate Activism and featured in BBC’s 100 Women list. Her work continues to inspire a new generation of climate advocates, making her a pivotal figure in the fight against climate change.