Reza Cristián, Founder + Editor-in-Chief

Growing up, being conscious was a resource for myself and my family. We always recycled and thrifted because of our economic background. It wasn’t until I moved away from my hometown in sunny California to attend university in NYC that I realized there is  a word and actual lifestyle for these small hacks. And that word was “sustainable”. 

From being a fashion blogger to reading and watching documentaries on the harms of the fashion industry and climate change, I immersed myself more into this world. It wasn’t until then that I realized I wanted to really make a change and difference, and I did just that. I used my journalism degree to start an online sustainable publication, one which  focused on creating a diverse and inclusive space for people who are eco-conscious. 

Through SUSTAIN, I am passionate about bringing a fun, non-judgemental, and educational approach. SUSTAIN is all about giving a damn, and cheering you on when you make your first baby steps into this world of sustainability. 

What I am most excited for SUSTAIN in 2020 is our brand new digital cover, which will allow us to really highlight the changemakers in this world who are making waves and whose voices need to be heard. I am excited for the opportunity and doors it will open up for my team and our publication as we continue to grow. 

Alyssa Ford, Culture & Wellness Editor + Videographer

Because I grew up in the Ocean State, the song of the sea runs deep through my veins. Yearly family trips to New Hampshire painted my childhood the color of the forests, rivers, and mountains. I have always found solace in nature, especially during times of intense sadness or moments of chaos. It was not until attending university however, that I truly understood what was happening to our environment. Through my studies I began to fully comprehend the dangerous and immense impacts of colonialism and capitalism, not only on the natural world, but on entire communities and populations across the globe. When I joined SUSTAIN, I had one major goal: to be better. Education is power and I believe that by first educating myself, I can then educate others and assist with the personal growth of all. 

Raised by a single mother in a low income household, I learned from a young age to find value in the small things in life, rather than place emphasis on material items. Much of my connection to the Earth and spirituality stems from my mother. She has been a fitness trainer and yoga instructor since I was a child and has definitely influenced my conscious lifestyle. Practicing gratitude and mindfulness can be a daunting task however, especially for those like myself dealing with mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression. Through my own journey, I have learned that wellness is an ongoing process that requires a holistic approach and a complete balance between the mind, body, and spirit.

No matter what brought you here to SUSTAIN, I want to thank you for engaging in this process with us. My greatest hope for 2020 is that we continue to try to be better, together.

Jalin Abston, Food & Style Editor + Photographer

I always grew up in big cities, where recycling was practically muscle memory. I was also lucky enough to have a mother who first introduced me to an eco-conscious lifestyle: plastic was always a household enemy and only organic products were allowed.

As an adult, these things have stuck with me, and I have found a home for myself in Brooklyn after college. New York City has helped me grow, not only as a person, but as a consumer and environmental activist. Seeing the amount of food waste and trash produced in such a vast city was enough to turn my head towards leading a more sustainable life.

While on this journey of living a sustainable lifestyle, missteps are bound to happen and I intend to show our readers this side of sustainability. Leaving my apartment without a reusable bag or coffee cup while in a rush has happened to others and myself numerous times.

But a step in the right direction of leading an eco-friendly lifestyle is becoming aware of these missteps and doing our parts as guests on Earth to correct ourselves. SUSTAIN continues to teach me and allows me to educate our communities about sustainability and better ways to care for our planet.