With green the new black, there are many out there who claim to be tinted an earthy shade despite having nothing to show for it. So it is refreshing to uncover someone who has a genuine sense of sustainability, and one that shines through every aspect of her life.
Meet Nadya Hutagalung, founder of GreenKampong and one of the most recognizable faces in Asia, having brought MTV into the homes of tens of millions and been the face of fashion in many more.
Her green roots run deep. When young, her mother regaled her with stories about rescuing Orang Utans stolen from an Indonesian zoo, and filled her mind with phrases that would only become part of the global lexicon much later, like "living off the grid" and being "self sustainable".
It sparked a lifetime of loving nature, rescuing strays and truly appreciating what we as humans take from the earth - and give back. It is a mindset that she has taken pains to impart to her three children.
Most recently, Nadya has made headlines for her signature eco-home on the aptly named Greenwood neighbourhood, a project three years in the making (and still ongoing, she adds). Also in the limelight is GreenKampong.com. It was first started to track the progress and challenges of building her home, but quickly evolved into a forum for similar-minded people and the issues that matter to them. Nadya has also been Singapore's Ambassador for the World Wildlife Fund's Earth Hour for the last three years.
In Asia, Nadya is a household name and is regarded as one of Singapore's most beautiful women. In 2009, she was voted one of Singapore's Top 20 most influential people by CNN. That same year, she was awarded the title of best TV Host by ELLE Magazine Singapore, testimony to her staying power in a tough industry.
Over the years, her talent and accomplishments have also been recognized elsewhere in the world. She was named one of Asia's Leading Trendmakers by Asia Week magazine, alongside the Dalai Lama, Michelle Yeoh and Chow Yun Fatt, for her special ability to inspire and fascinate, as well as one of the Top Ten "Shining Stars" on Indonesian Television by Indonesian tabloid Bintang.
Bookings - Indonesia: Esther Sitompul | Regional: Fly Entertainment
This is Nadya's temporary space online. Do come back for more soon.