We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Smiely Khurana. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Smiely below.

Smiely, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. We’d love to hear the backstory behind a risk you’ve taken – whether big or small, walk us through what it was like and how it ultimately turned out.

One of the biggest risks I’ve taken was leaving my stable 9-to-5 job to pursue The Sustainable Act full-time. I walked away from security to grow a platform and business focused on amplifying underrepresented voices in sustainability—a space that’s already underfunded and often overlooked.

It wasn’t an easy decision. But I felt a deep urgency to create something disruptive, a media platform that could inspire action and elevate voices often left out of the conversation.

Taking that leap meant diving into the unknown—figuring out funding, building a team, and trusting that my vision would resonate. It’s been challenging, but also incredibly rewarding. The Sustainable Act has grown into a powerful platform for change-makers, proving that stepping away from the conventional path can lead to something even more impactful. This risk taught me the value of betting on myself and my dreams.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I’m Smiely Khurana, founder of The Sustainable Act, a platform that amplifies underrepresented voices in sustainability. As a recently named 30 under 30 Sustainability Leader in Canada, my journey began with a desire to bridge two passions: media and the environment. Growing up in British Columbia, surrounded by nature, I developed a deep connection to the land. Later, my work in the film industry made me acutely aware of its environmental impact, which sparked my determination to create change.

The Sustainable Act started as a podcast exploring sustainability in film but quickly grew into a platform tackling broader issues, from climate justice and wellbeing, to representation. Today, we produce stories, interviews, and collaborations that uplift those often overlooked in these critical conversations. Through our blog, podcast, and partnerships, we provide accessible tools, inspiration, and education to empower others to act.

What sets us apart is our focus on storytelling with heart and purpose. We don’t just talk about sustainability; we connect it to the lived experiences of real people, showing that climate action is deeply personal and interconnected with issues like equity and mental health.

I’m most proud of how our work has sparked meaningful dialogue and empowered individuals to see their role in creating a sustainable future. For me, The Sustainable Act is about more than environmentalism—it’s about building a movement that centres compassion, creativity, and inclusion.

For anyone looking to connect, collaborate, or explore sustainability in an engaging way, I invite you to join us. Whether you’re a changemaker, creative, or someone just starting their journey, The Sustainable Act is a space for you to feel inspired and supported.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

The driving force behind my creative journey is the mission to amplify underrepresented voices in sustainability and create meaningful change through storytelling. I’ve always believed that stories have the power to inspire action, and my goal with The Sustainable Act is to highlight the incredible work being done by leaders in our own backyards. It’s not just about the environment; it’s about addressing the intersections of climate justice, mental health, and representation. Whether it’s through our podcast, blog, or collaborations, I’m committed to creating a platform that empowers people to see themselves as part of the solution.

At the heart of it all is the belief that sustainability isn’t just a responsibility—it’s an opportunity to build a kinder, more inclusive world. That vision keeps me motivated every day to push boundaries and create work that drives connection, action, and hope.

How did you build your audience on social media?

Building an audience for The Sustainable Act on social media was all about authenticity and consistency. In the beginning, I wore every hat—creating content, engaging with followers, and sharing the highs and lows of building the platform. People connected with my vulnerability and the genuine mission to amplify diverse voices in sustainability.

The real breakthrough came when I started collaborating with others in the sustainability space. Sharing their stories and doing joint posts introduced me to wider, engaged audiences. I also focused on topics like climate anxiety and mental health, which created a niche that resonated deeply with my community.

My advice for those starting out is to focus on authenticity and engagement. Don’t worry about perfection—connect with people, respond to comments, and be patient. Growth takes time, and consistency is key. Stay true to your mission, and the right audience will follow.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.thesustainableact.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesustainableact/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-sustainable-act/