A groundbreaking series of British Council Global Partnerships-funded workshops has brought together over 228 female students from Botswana, South Africa, Ghana, and the United Kingdom, all united under a shared mission: to strengthen pathways into sustainability careers and advance gender equality in the green economy. From August to September 2025, universities and industry experts collaborated to inspire, equip, and mentor the next generation of women sustainability leaders.
Botswana Leads the Way: First Workshop Ignites New Career Pathways
The series launched on 7 August 2025 at Botswana Accountancy College (BAC), where 72 students, 5 industry practitioners, 6 staff members, and 1 executive guest took part in the inaugural event. Organised by Dr. Ayodeji Michael Obadire and Dr. Kelebogile Kenalemang, the workshop addressed a critical gap: research showed 84% of sampled students were unaware of sustainability career opportunities.
The event opened with a powerful address by Dr. Tebogo Magang, reaffirming BAC’s commitment to inclusive, future-focused education. A dynamic panel discussion featuring leaders from finance, agriculture, climate risk, and sustainability, including Larona Makgoeng (Stanbic Bank) and climate communicator Sabina Matsheka, brought real-world insights to students.
Participants discovered how sustainability careers span multiple sectors, reflecting Botswana’s national development priorities. The day concluded with networking and the launch of a Sustainability Mentorship Programme, ensuring long-term impact.
South Africa Empowers Change Through Reflection and Real-World Practice
On 19 August 2025, the second workshop was hosted at North-West University with 52 female students in attendance. Led by Prof. Sanlie Middelberg and Dr. Louise Bezuidenhout, the workshop offered practical insights into the green economy and strategies for overcoming gender-based barriers in industry.
The programme featured a thought-provoking welcome by Prof. Verona Leendertz and an inspiring keynote by Vinay Rajah from the British Council South Africa. Industry leaders Cathie Lewis (GCX) and Lize Brand (Zutari) shared stories of adaptability, resilience, and interdisciplinary growth. Students also participated in a hands-on case study session, tackling real sustainability challenges.
Many participants described having powerful “ah-ha moments,” realising that their diverse academic and personal backgrounds hold value in shaping sustainability solutions. The event closed with reflections, networking, and the formal introduction of the mentorship programme.
Ghana Builds a Virtual Hub for Sustainability Dialogue and Skills Development
The series continued on 29 August 2025 with the third workshop, hosted virtually and attended by 60 female students representing six Ghanaian universities. Organised by Dr. Seyram Kawor from the University of Cape Coast, the session created a vibrant online learning community focused on gender equality and sustainability.
Opening remarks were delivered by university leaders, including Prof. Daniel Agyapong and Prof. Samuel Kweku Agyei, followed by insights from the project leader, Prof. Nadia Gulko. A panel titled “In the Shoes of a Sustainability Practitioner” featured practitioners from KPMG, EY, and the Kokrobitey Institute, sharing candid stories about career challenges and opportunities.
Students engaged in skills-building sessions on ESG reporting, communication, and systems-thinking, as well as an SDG Quiz game that blended learning with fun. Many participants noted that the workshop broadened their understanding of sustainability careers beyond environmental science, revealing pathways in consulting, accounting, entrepreneurship, and creative sectors.
United Kingdom: Collaboration and Inspiration Mark the Final Workshop
The final workshop in the series was held on 12 September 2025 in the UK, jointly hosted by the University of Lincoln and Sheffield Hallam University. The event gathered 44 students from four universities, 6 industry speakers, and over 20 academics, creating a dynamic space for connection and inspiration.
Speakers included Sarah Mukherjee MBE (ISEP), Blanca Antizar (Isle Utilities), and governance expert Kerry Round, Jane Powell, and Esther Kabiito (DFDS). Their insights encouraged students to pursue their ambitions with boldness, embrace mentorship, and develop interdisciplinary skills.
Organised by Prof. Nadia Gulko, Sally Newnham, and Dr. Dora Chan in close collaboration with the project team and supported by dedicated university leadership at the University of Lincoln and Sheffield Hallam University, the workshop highlighted the power of partnership. Volunteers, photographers, and marketing teams contributed to an energising, well-supported event. As the programme concluded, students were urged to “believe in yourself, celebrate your story, and dream higher”, messages that resonated deeply across participants.
A Cross-Continental Impact: Building Sustainable Futures Together
Across four countries, the workshops created meaningful learning spaces where women gained:
- Exposure to diverse sustainability career pathways
- Direct mentorship and engagement with practitioners
- Skills for navigating gender barriers in the green economy
- Networks that extend beyond national borders
- A shared vision for sustainability leadership
Thanks to the support of the British Council, the dedication of organising teams, the generosity of industry speakers, and the enthusiasm of more than 228 student participants, the Sustainability Careers – Gender Equality series has laid a strong foundation for future-ready, inclusive, and impactful sustainability careers.
The journey continues, with mentorship, collaboration, and empowered young women leading the way toward a more sustainable and equitable future.
Leave a Reply