Many of us talk wistfully about how the world would be a better place if only this or that was different – and then do nothing to bring about the change we seek.

Yatha Jain, by contrast, is one of a small minority who actually takes action.

Yatha, the 286th person I’ve met on my quest to have lunch with 500 strangers, is the vice-chair of Prosper (Project Australia), a not-for-profit organisation that supports disadvantaged children and their families.

She’s also a youth ambassador for Multicultural Youth Affairs Network NSW, which helps young people from multicultural communities to become connected, influential and valued members of Australian society.

It should also be noted that Yatha works in marketing for Medtronic, a healthcare technology company – so her activism is something she does on top of holding down a fulltime job.

What struck me about Yatha is that she’s not just compassionate, but also a true leader. Instead of being a passive member of society, she proactively tries to solve problems; and instead of focusing on herself, she puts the spotlight on the causes she supports.

Yatha wants Australia to be a fairer place, with racial and gender equality. Rather than just talking about it, she’s doing what she can to make it happen.