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ISEP, in partnership with the Diverse Sustainability Initiative (DSI), is inviting participants to join our next mentoring cohort for People of Colour.
We know from research, and from our ongoing work with the DSI, that a lack of visible role models of People of Colour in senior positions continues to be a barrier to progression within the environment and sustainability sector.
Many professionals report feeling that career pathways remain unclear and that the sector still has work to do to become truly inclusive.
ISEP’s 2024–2025 pilot programme, developed with the University of Strathclyde and funded by the Economic and Social Research Council, showed how effective mentoring can be in addressing these challenges.
The trial achieved an average rating of nine out of ten from both mentors and mentees, with participants reporting increased confidence, stronger networks and clearer strategies for professional growth.
We’re now expanding the scheme to support up to 40 mentors and 40 mentees in the next group. Mentoring relationships will run for up to a year, with access to our dedicated mentoring platform, PLD. Applications are open from November to February. Whether you’re looking to share your experience or gain support and guidance to grow your career, this is a valuable opportunity to connect, learn and make lasting change in our sector.
Full details of eligibility and participation criteria are listed below:
Mentors:
Mentees:
Spaces are limited, so we encourage you to apply early. Welcome sessions will be held before Christmas.
Many ISEP members will know the work of 1% for the Planet. Ahead of her trip to Amsterdam for the European member summit, CEO Kate Williams joined ISEP Europe for a candid early-morning webinar (7am Vermont time). This is available online to members at www.isepglobal.org/watch-again/talkingsustainability-1/
Founded by Yvon Chouinard of Patagonia fame, 1% for the Planet enables companies to commit to contributing 1% of net sales (not profit) to organisations protecting our home planet.
This can be to an organisation of their choice, with local beneficiaries encouraged. Contributions are carefully audited (the author, as a member, can vouch for this) and in addition to the value of the funded activity, the donor demonstrates their values to customers, employees and other stakeholders. It is a great example of an activist business seeking to influence other actors in a non-competitive, cooperative spirit.
In the conversation with Williams, we discussed the organisation’s impact to date – more than $800m (£607m) raised, including $130m (£99m) in Europe (excluding the UK) – plus the evolution of the organisation, her approach to leading such a distinctive brand, and the expanding scope of its work in certification, advocacy, activism and the development and shaping of a more holistic, responsible business ecosystem. The discussion focused, in particular, on developments in mainland Europe, which Williams and her team track closely as their second largest market.
Williams is a hugely accomplished and experienced interviewee who gave generously of her time and readers are encouraged to check out the conversation in full.
For further information or to join 1% for the Planet, visit www.onepercentfortheplanet.org
By Damien Plant FISEP
Our Fellows continue to inspire across the profession, sharing their expertise to strengthen our community.
In November, we hosted our Futures and Fellows sessions, focused on helping early-career professionals build the essential, transferable skill of networking. Chaired by Sarah Mukherjee MBE, with contributions from Fellows Luke Howell, Nicola Stopps, and Cameron Scott, chair of the ISEP West of Scotland Network, the discussion provided lively debate, personal insights and clear steps for building meaningful professional relationships.
Watch the session at www.isepglobal.org/watch-again-video-library/
Fellows at Connect 2025
ISEP Fellows will share thought leadership and practical insights in many sessions:
Tuesday 9 December
9.00-9.45 The rising importance of the sustainability professional
11.00-11.45 Sustainability across the arts: creativity as a catalyst for change
12.00-12.45 Networking for ISEP women
15.00-15.45 Different journeys, shared purpose: highlighting the breadth of backgrounds in sustainability careers.
Wednesday 10 December
11.00-11.45 Becoming a Fellow: Learn more about the Fellowship upgrade process
12.00-12.45 Networking for ISEP women
13.00-13.45 The role of organisational values and decision-making in shaping sustainability performance.
If you’re unable to attend, you can catch up on www.isepglobal.org/isep-connect
Exclusive to Fellows
Our Fellows network continues to grow, with new specialist groups across key sectors. Contact e.morris@isepglobal.org for more information on: aviation; construction; academia; non-executive director masterclass.
We’ll announce our new Fellows Steering Group in the next issue of Transform.
New Zealand: sustainability and environmental networking event
Thursday 11 December, 17.00 to 18.00 NZDT
Connect with professionals and enthusiasts, explore emerging sustainability trends and share real-world insights. Whether experienced or new to the field, you’ll gain valuable connections and inspiration for building a greener future.
To register, visit www.bit.ly/4qSt0KK
West Scotland: Christmas social
Thursday 11 December, 17.30 to 21.00 GMT
Join ISEP West Scotland for a relaxed festive gathering – an opportunity to network, connect and share ideas with professionals in the sustainability community. Reflect on the year, exchange insights, build meaningful relationships and celebrate the season in a welcoming, informal setting.
To register, visit www.bit.ly/4qLPHA9
Europe: Talking Sustainability
Friday 12 December, 9.00 to 10.00 CET
Every second Friday of the month is time for the ISEP Europe community to
come together. We invite sustainability professionals to explore critical topics shaping our future. From climate action to circular economy strategies, we tackle key issues that are driving sustainability forward.
To register, visit www.bit.ly/43pE6g9
