Postgraduate Recognised as Young Explorer of the Year

Each year, the National Geographic Society recognises and invests in inspirational changemakers aged 18 to 25 who have demonstrated exceptional courage, leadership, and a commitment to making a positive impact in their communities and beyond. Through the Society’s Young Explorer program, each recipient receives a monetary award, along with tailored training, mentorship and access to a global network of peers and experts. They also gain opportunities for continued project support, helping them scale their ideas and deepen their impact. Selected through a rigorous, multi-stage nomination and application process, the 2025 Young Explorers are advancing solutions at the intersection of science, education, technology, culture and the environment.

St John's postgraduate, Max Han, was named as one of fifteen Young Explorers for 2025, in recognition of his climate justice advocacy and leadership. Max is the co-founder of Youths United for Earth (YUFE), Malaysia’s leading grassroots nonprofit, which mobilises youth for climate action through advocacy, storytelling and campaigns, reaching over 50,000 people.

Max led Malaysia’s first and largest sustainability mentorship program and co-drafted Southeast Asia's first environmental rights declaration, which, once enacted, would apply to 690 million people. His contributions to climate justice have earned him international recognition, including being named the first Southeast Asian to be named a Future Nobel Laureate Scholar in Stockholm during Nobel Week 2024. Max also received the Diana Award for humanitarian work and was featured in Tatler's Leader of Tomorrow for his influence in Asia.

Driven by a belief in collective action, Max is committed to building a just and regenerative world by empowering youth and frontline communities to protect their environmental rights. He draws inspiration from the resilience of these communities, who maintain deep connections to their land and nature amid the climate crisis.

Many congratulations, Max, on this prestigious award.