PARKER WHITEWAY, 27, American, Chicago, research and developer. Inspiring change in the world in easy, everyday ways AND non-profit worm composter!
Describe a moment you thought hope was lost and how you recovered from that moment of insanity: A friend and I were injured in an accident and he fell into a coma.  It's amazing how I had been so sure in what I believed in, but when a good friend was in critical condition, I was ready to abandon everything I thought I'd set in stone. I put my own will on a shelf and looked to my parents and mentors for guidance.  This was an enormous step in my own growth and maturity.
Describe one amazing thing you have seen/done: Falling in love with my beautiful, amazing girlfriend, Dinah! The other, a motorcycle trip in 2007.  It was on this trip that I met some of my best friends. I also learned so much about the USA and strangers.  
What do you hope you made a difference in: A smile can be the difference between a good or bad day for a stranger walking the other way. I try to be a source of positive energy wherever I go.
What's the best advice you can give someone: Don't wait for the next opportunity, take this one.
What's your favorite food: Steamed artichoke leaves with mayonnaise.