Would you like to work with us? How you can support diversity, equity & inclusion.

catalyse change menteesWhat comes to mind when you hear the word diversity? Many people immediately think of race, culture, or ethnicity. While these are key aspects, diversity is much broader – it influences every part of our lives, from our workplaces to our communities, food systems, and economies.

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives are currently under attack. But we know that diversity makes us stronger. In nature, biodiversity creates resilience – planting different varieties strengthens ecosystems, enhances food security, and ensures long-term sustainability. The same principle applies to our workplaces and societies.

Diverse teams are more innovative, solve problems more effectively, and foster healthier, more inclusive environments. Research consistently shows that diversity drives economic growth, enhances social cohesion, and builds more competitive businesses.

The green skills gender gap

Soft green skillsAt Catalyse Change, we exist to address two of the biggest sustainability challenges: gender and racial inequities.

Women are key to effective climate action, yet they remain underrepresented in leadership roles. Currently, less than a third of sustainability leadership positions are held by women, and the growth in women entering green jobs is three times too slow to close the gender gap.

The impact of this imbalance is significant. Research shows that countries with higher proportions of women in government are more likely to support environmental treaties. Similarly, organisations with more women in leadership tend to have lower carbon emissions. Addressing this gap is essential for better decision-making, more creative solutions, and a healthier, more equitable workforce.

Increasing racial diversity in green careers

The latest RACE report shows the representation of people of colour and racially or ethnically minoritised groups across the environmental sector is only 4.5%, compared to a national average of 16%. Catalyse Change is committed to increasing racial diversity in sustainability careers. One of the ways we do this is by offering bursaries to young women from underrepresented and disadvantaged backgrounds. In 2024, over 80% of our places were provided as free sponsored bursaries to young women of colour (41%) and to those facing economic hardship (63%).

How businesses can drive change

We invite businesses to partner with us to make a tangible impact on diversity, equity and inclusion. Supporting our progrmamme enables young women to develop skills, confidence, and connections. Your organisation can get involved by:

  • Encouraging employees to become mentors, supporting and inspiring the next generation of changemakers.
  • Providing professional development opportunities for your staff through our mentoring and training programmes.
  • Upskilling young employees by enrolling them in our sustainability leadership and green careers programmes.
  • Sponsor a bursary to enable young women from all backgrounds to thrive in sustainability careers.

Diversity is not just a moral imperative – it’s a business advantage. By partnering with Catalyse Change, your organisation can play a vital role in shaping a greener, fairer future. Diversity is what makes us great, let’s work together to make it happen.

Get in touch today to explore sponsorship and partnership opportunities! We would love to connect and send you our latest partnership slidedeck. Traci Lewis, Programme Director, traci@catalysechange.com 

REFS

We Forum Why Women’s Leadership is crucial to tackling Climate Change

RSPB  The latest RACE report