Fifteen years ago, I was frustrated that the world (at least as I saw it) was not addressing the pressing environmental and social concerns that I was seeing, feeling and reading about. It felt very lonely and bewildering. ‘How come everyone wasn’t up in arms?’ ‘What on earth could I do?’ I needed to find a band of brothers and sisters, and educate myself.
I decided to take a Masters and that course, and the people I met, changed my life. I worked to apply my passion and my rage into my ‘day job’ and bring purpose and leadership into all the areas I worked on. Sometimes that showed up in the way I did things. Sometimes, it was the things I worked on. I wasn’t an activist. I was a management consultant and a Talent Director. Slowly over time I realized I wasn’t alone. Whether it was the alumni group from my Masters, or the colleagues I was working with, and people I met through the charity I was a trustee of. I was part of a growing community of people who fundamentally wanted to pivot our planet in the direction of thriving and flourishing.
Fifteen years on, in one way, the world looks very different. Sustainability, and the areas of good growth and the drive towards a fair and equitable world, are much more prevalent. We are much clearer on the need to shift all our actions – consumption, production, financing, living – towards more sustainable outcomes. That’s not to say, it’s easy. I’m still bewildered why all jobs aren’t ‘green’ jobs or ‘equity’ jobs, or ‘in service of all life’ jobs. But things are definitely changing. And that’s due to the amazing and inspiring people dedicating their life and work to this effort. In all fields, be that corporate or not-for-profit, public or private sector; we are supported by a glorious and joyous army of people, who, in their own unique ways, stand shoulder to shoulder in fighting for all our futures.
Today, on International Women’s Day, we kick off an on-going series, profiling a few of those amazing women. I have had the privilege of interviewing and knowing some of these women, and having the opportunity to tell their story is an honour. Some of these women are in high profile corporate CSO roles focused on financial services, food production, technology, broadcasting and many more sectors. Some are social innovators, entrepreneurs or academics. Some are mobilizing communities to improve our housing or human rights. We hear from former wildlife film producers and intelligence agents. We hear from women who have been so moved by people’s plights they hosted refugees for several years. What unites them is the drive to not just ‘make a difference’, but make THE difference. To bring all their skills and experiences to bear to reimagine and rebuild our systems for the betterment of all.
I would personally like to thank all of those who took the time to tell us their story and thank all those who shepherd us towards a better future. Long may they reign and find the path and blaze the trail.
Stay up to date with our latest interviews by following us on social media. LinkedIn I Twitter
Or contact us to find out how we can help your leaders and organisation create people and planet-positive impact.