In October 2022, I had the absolute pleasure of speaking at Dauntsey’s School as part of the Mercers’ Lecture Series, an incredible program that brings in speakers from all walks of life to share ideas and experiences with students. When I saw the lineup, I have to admit—I felt pretty honored to be included. The series featured some seriously impressive names, including historian David Olusoga, Countdown’s Susie Dent, broadcaster and author Reverend Richard Coles, and even Richard Browning, the real-life inventor of the jet suit. And then little ole me! I don’t think I’m over it.
With such a fascinating mix of speakers, it was clear that these lectures weren’t just about inspiring students—they were about exposing them to big ideas, different ways of thinking, and the possibilities that exist beyond the classroom. And that’s why I was so excited to be part of it – even though I felt like I was in a postpartum brain fog – I couldn’t miss this opportunity.
Beyond Sustainability: What Comes Next?
I started my talk by addressing something we hear all the time: sustainability. Every brand wants to call itself sustainable, every product wants a green label, and businesses love talking about their eco-friendly initiatives. But even if every company on Earth became “sustainable” tomorrow… would that really be enough?
The truth is, sustainability is about maintaining things as they are. It’s about doing less harm, when actually perhaps we should be doing more good. Considering the state of our planet, just doing “less bad” isn’t going to cut it.
The Role of Young People in Driving Change
One of the things that made this talk so special was the audience. Unlike speaking at a corporate event, where you’re talking to people already deep in their careers, this was a room full of young people – the people who are going to shape the future (and save us from ourselves?)
I wanted to make it clear that they don’t have to wait until they’re running companies or making millions to have an impact. As consumers, they already have power. Where they choose to spend their money, what brands they support, and even how they talk about these issues on social media—all of this influences businesses and shapes the market.
But beyond that, I encouraged them to think bigger. Some of them will be future business leaders, founders, entrepreneurs. Maybe someone sitting in that audience will build the next Depop or Vivobarefoot. The world of work is changing, and there are more opportunities than ever to create something meaningful.
Speaking to young people MATTERS. I left Dauntsey’s feeling incredibly hopeful. The questions that the students asked, the conversations we had afterward—it was clear that this generation cares. They’re informed, they’re engaged, and they’re not afraid to challenge the status quo.
That’s why events like this matter so much. If we want real change, we have to start with the people who are going to be running the world in the next 10, 20, 30 years.
We all have the power to shape the future. And if this lecture series was anything to go by, the future is in pretty good hands.