Catherine Erol is a sophomore college student interested in environmental justice, human health, and supporting women in need.

Inspired by stories of other leaders turning waste into soap, she founded The Revolving Soap. Her efforts are focused on reducing waste in her community and turning what was once deemed trash into a vital necessity. She donates most of the soap to Connecticut residents who do not have reliable access to hygiene products.

Additionally, she is passionate about supporting women and girls who are not able to afford menstrual products. Period poverty impacts women and girls across the globe and can limit their ability to attend school or work. With the help of several volunteers, she assembles menstrual kits containing an assortment of pads. These kits, like the soap, are given primarily to low-income women in Connecticut. She was recognized as a Light a Fire Award recipient this year for her work in her community.

Through this fellowship, Catherine will continue to focus on helping people in her community.