Future Leaders: Cohort 6
The Green Generation
For a generation defined by unprecedented challenges and rapid transformations, the need for visionary leadership has never been greater. The global pursuit of sustainability and the urgent call to mitigate the impacts of climate change require leaders who not only understand the intricacies of the environmental crises, but also possess the courage and innovation to drive meaningful change.
The Future Leaders Programme embodies this spirit of forward thinking and proactive leadership. The book: ‘The Green Generation’, a product of the programme, serves as both a testament to the power of collaboration and a roadmap for future generations of leaders in Greater Manchester. Through a series of insightful interviews, the authors – Rachel Moonan, Thalia Czarkowska, Jordan Harrison, Robyn Sayers, and Luke Rowson – have woven together a tapestry of experiences and perspectives from those at the forefront of sustainability.
As you delve into the pages of the book, you will encounter stories of resilience, adaptability, and determination. These are not just tales of success, but of the journeys and challenges faced by those committed to making a lasting impact. Each narrative offers a unique lens through which to view the pathways to sustainability, illustrating that there is not a singular path to leadership in this field. Instead, the diversity of experiences shows that leadership in sustainability is about continuous learning, collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to a better future.
The book is more than just a collection of interviews; it is a call to action. It encourages all who read it to reflect on their role in shaping a sustainable future, to be inspired by the stories of others, and to take bold steps in their journeys toward leadership in this area.
I commend the authors for their dedication and passion in bringing this project to life and for their contributions to the ongoing dialogue on sustainability for the city region of Greater Manchester. I am confident that this book will inspire current and future leaders to rise to the challenges we face and to lead with purpose and vision.
Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester
The Green Generation
We are a group of five motivated individuals working for separate organisations based in Manchester, UK:
Rachel Moonan, Sustainability Officer, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service
Thalia Czarkowska, Green Economy Consultant, Green Economy
Jordan Harrison, Energy and Sustainability Manager, Bruntwood
Robyn Sayers, Technical Compliance Officer, IPEC
Luke Rowson, Regional Energy Manager, UrbanVolt
We met on a course called the Future Leaders Programme. The Future Leaders Programme is a leadership course that aims to equip the leaders of tomorrow with the skills to help their organisations deliver sustainability and progress towards net zero. During the nine-month training programme, we worked together to create this final project: a collection of interviews with current and future leaders, working in sustainability.
The book is the consequence of our passion and commitment to a greener future. The scope of interviewees’ journeys to get to their current roles underlines that there is not one road to success in sustainability. It is an open and insightful discussion with the leaders, innovators and accidental pioneers at the forefront of environmental progress. It offers a comprehensive view of how effective leadership can foster a more sustainable future.
As you stand on the threshold of entering the world of work and deciding your next steps, let these stories and insights inspire you. We hope that this collection of interviews provides practical advice and transparency around the lessons learned, as well as highlighting the potential and possible opportunities for anyone considering working in a similar field.
Our planet needs trailblazers to embed sustainability, shape industries, and help communities mitigate the risks of climate change. Here are the bold and brave, dedicating their careers to making a lasting impact.
