With climate change a key focus for the sector and one of Abri’s strategic priorities, we wanted to recognise the fantastic contribution of women who are leading the way on the climate challenge and building a more sustainable future for everyone. We caught up with Sophie Atkins, our Sustainability Programme manager, to find out more about her career in sustainability and why International Women’s Day is important to her.
How have you got to where you are in your career and life today?
I’d like to say that my life has been a series of calculated steps, each leading onto the next, with a clear goal in mind. But we all know that life isn’t always like that! So, instead, I have tried enjoy the good stuff, learn lessons and move on from the not so good. It would be untrue to say that I haven’t experienced challenges, disappointments and, at times, questioned my ability. But amongst all of that, there have been some great achievements, kind and encouraging words, wonderful experiences and amazing memories made.
I’m a passionate and driven person and immerse myself into everything that I do, and it’s this mindset that has given me so much opportunity to learn more, to grow personally and professionally.
As a woman, how easy has it been for you to get involved in the sustainability and climate change challenge?
Women are wildly under represented within sustainability sector - something which I’m hopeful will change as we make our way through this journey.
The narrative on climate change is much more open and accessible than it has been ever before, and organisations are starting to understand the importance and responsibility they have for playing their role in tackling climate change. This has led to openings and re-prioritisation of business critical activities which has provided opportunities for people who care about people and the planet. There is still a way to go, but the conversations are happening and the doors are opening.
What challenges have you faced along the way?
Personal challenges have, I think, come from my own self-doubt and being part of a sector that has historically solely focused on the built environment (and been quite male-dominated). This is one of the reasons I chose to study for my masters in management for a sustainable future. I knew that the challenge was far broader than traditionally considered, and I wanted to expand my awareness and understanding of how we can build a truly sustainable future, together.
What do you think needs to change?
We need to come together like never before and acknowledge that the world is interconnected in ways that we can’t even imagine.
We need to put equity, resilience and sustainability at the heart of everything that we do. We need to move away from the short-termism that dominates the business world, because our obsession with ‘bigger, faster, better’ has led us to where we are today.
Everyone has a role to play and, no matter how big or small, collectively it all makes a difference. Sustainability can’t be viewed as a discretionary ‘add-on’ or ‘tick box’ - it has to live intrinsically inside of us all and form part of business’ DNA.
We need to be braver than ever before; we have to create space for disruptive innovation and we have to embrace sustainable shared value. It also needs to change from being a top-down approach; harness the power of your people, their imaginations, and their creativity. One person brave enough to do something different creates a movement - and, right now, a movement is what we need.
Which female role models have you been inspired by?
I’m inspired by so many women, because of so many different reasons. But, for me, Jacinda Arden is a shining example of what real leadership looks like. Continually placing people at the heart of decision-making, leading with compassion, empathy and genuine humility, is exactly what the world needs right now.
Why is International Women’s Day important to you?
For so many women, feelings of inadequacy, dismissal and oppression are all too regular experiences. This is why this day is important; to celebrate and to highlight the power, impact, and difference women can make in the world.
Sustainability Programme Manager
