Alisha “Anne” Somanas

Industry : Advocacy

A Thai-American, Anne Somanas is the founder of the Bangkok Recycling Chain, a grassroots sustainability platform that grew from a simple act of sharing unused paper bags in 2020 into Thailand’s largest English-speaking freecycling group from unneeded things and reusables to peer-to-peer knowledge exchange on sustainable living practices. Part of a multicultural family, Anne was influenced by her Swiss and Chinese grandmothers both known for their thoughtful preservation of personal belongings, who shaped her values and instilled a lifelong reverence for preloved treasures and objects with soul. A former software analyst turned journalist, Anne uses her writing skills to bridge gaps in Thailand’s sustainability ecosystem, making eco-living more accessible to English speakers through curated guides and the translation of essential green resources.

Being gluten intolerant, she also advocates for dietary inclusivity by running Thailand’s largest English-speaking food allergy support group. Anne is known for making “waste sexy,” whether by being photographed beside piles of trash and recyclables, organising community clothing swaps, or advocating for circular living as a mindfulness practice. You’ll likely spot her in secondhand couture at zero-waste markets, or facilitating events around green living and always reminding the world that sustainability begins with story, soul, and small acts.