Chai, Conversations & Change (CCC) - Sustainability & Development Professionals Meet-up (SDPM): Forging alliances for a Sustainable Future

Last week, an informal yet transformative Sustainability & Development Professionals Meetup (SDPM) titled "Chai, Conversations & Change" (CCC) was organised, which brought together sustainability and development professionals from various corners of the city of Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala. 

This informal meet-up, organised by two non-profit organisations namely, the Centre for Development Initiatives (CDI) and Sustera Foundation, in association with the Indian Network on Ethics and Climate Change (INECC) a pan-India climate action and green entrepreneurs network based out of Visakhapatnam, proved to be an inspiring platform for around 40 individuals who are currently working in the development sector and committed to fostering positive change in the field of sustainability.

The gathering was honoured by the presence of two distinguished experts, namely : Shri. Sridhar Radhakrishnan, a renowned Environmentalist, and Shri. N. Jagajeevan, and who had formerly led programmes at Kudumbashree, Haritha Kerala Mission and presently serving as Consultant for the Suchithwa Mission, Government of Kerala. Their presence added value to the event, providing attendees with valuable insights and perspectives from their vast experience in the sustainability sector. 

The primary objective of the CCC Meet was to establish a space where professionals working in the sustainability sector could connect, network, and engage in meaningful conversations. The event was a tremendous success, fostering an atmosphere of camaraderie and collaboration among like-minded individuals. Participants found common ground in their shared passion for creating a positive impact on the environment and society. The informal setting allowed for open and uninhibited conversations, encouraging creative brainstorming and the exchange of ideas. 

The two esteemed guests shared their experiences and insights into a variety of sustainability issues, including waste management, eco-friendly practices, urban planning, and community-driven projects. The guests also talked about the challenges of sustainability and how to overcome them. 

Looking ahead, the organisers plan to periodically organise more such meet-ups in different cities in various parts of the country. By doing so, they aspire to bolster the sustainability and climate change knowledge economy while also accelerating positive change within society. These events will serve as catalysts for driving collaboration and building a strong network of sustainability professionals across the region.

The Chai, Conversations & Change (CCC) Meet served as a reminder that meaningful change is possible when like-minded individuals come together to share ideas, knowledge, and resources. As the participants returned to their respective roles, they carried with them a renewed sense of purpose and a strengthened commitment to shaping a sustainable future.

In conclusion, the CCC Meet proved to be an invaluable event that facilitated the exchange of ideas, nurtured collaboration, and inspired individuals to take concrete actions towards sustainability. With the promise of more such events in the future, the journey towards a greener and more sustainable world is undoubtedly on the right track.