Ryan Hickman, now a young entrepreneur, began his journey into business at just seven years old—without even realizing it. His passion for recycling was sparked at the age of three, when he noticed bottles and cans littering his community. After identifying the problem, Ryan decided the solution was simple: recycling.

He started small, collecting recyclables from his own home and taking them to a local recycling center, earning five dollars per haul. Realizing the potential to make a difference—and some extra money—Ryan expanded his efforts. Riding his bike through the neighborhood, he knocked on doors with a bag in hand, offering to collect recyclables from his neighbors.

Ryan’s commitment and enthusiasm caught the attention of the media. As his recycling business grew, so did his recognition, with interviews and appearances on national television showcasing his dedication. He even launched a line of T-shirts with the slogan, “Make the Sea Trash Free.”

Unlike most kids his age, Ryan chose to donate all his earnings to the Pacific Marine Mammal Center, a rescue organization, rather than spending it on toys or games. In less than a decade, he has helped recycle over 1.5 million cans and bottles.

Ryan Hickman’s story is a powerful reminder that anyone, even a young child, can make a significant impact when they are passionate about solving a problem.