The July 2023 Design and Innovation Meetup is all go, and for this session we are looking at innovation in sustainability and climate change.

This has become a high profile and high priority area, but while we recognise the drivers for change, how do we turn this into action? Our discussions with many people around the region suggest that people within organisations are struggling with the practical aspects of new initiatives and behaviour change needed.

Sounds like an innovation challenge!

We are pleased to have two awesome speakers on this topic:

Gemma Hignett works across marketing, product development and sustainability, most recently for home garden company Evergreen Garden Care (best known for the Tui brand). Taking a practical and collaborative approach to driving sustainability change, she has experienced both the challenges and rewards that come from forging ahead even when that change is uncomfortable. Gemma is a passionate advocate for brands, businesses and individuals taking a more sustainable approach to our choices to ensure our beautiful country continues to thrive for future generations.
Marissa Nikora has led the development of Priority Ones Sustainability Strategy and is now implementing the strategy to support our region on its transition to a sustainable future. With a background in HR/Recruitment its been a huge learning journey to understand the challenges businesses face when deciding where to start on their sustainability transition. Working in collaboration with industries and local councils to identify barriers and opportunities she focuses on her ability to work well with people and bring the right people together to create change.

Gemma and Marissa will share their experiences leading new sustainability initiatives in their work, and especially focused on the specifics of what’s worked, what hasn’t and what they’ve learned about making change along the way.

This is another issue where we know lots of our audience will have experiences and insights to share, so we’ll be expecting lots of contributions, discussion and shared learning. As well as our usual networking and connection across the innovation community!

And as a special bonus, we’ll be hosting this Meetup at Priority One's new mode shift hub. This is located in the CBD, and is an opportunity have a look at an amazing new space that is all about alternative transport options - everything from e-bikes and e-motorbikes to car share to Locky Dock and EV chargers and more.

So share it around, grab some friends and come along and join us.

When: Wed 19 July, 5PM.
Where: Surprise venue TBC!

The D&I Meetup Crew