E8S10: Upskilling for the Careers of Tomorrow: Challenges and Successes in Sustainability with Manuela Guzman

The Social Change Career Podcast

Summary:

On Episode 8 of Season 10 of The Social Change Career Podcast, host Craig Zalizer from PCDN.global interviews Manuela Guzman, a serial innovator and entrepreneur, about building a career in sustainability. The main topic of discussion is the urgency of addressing climate change and the importance of systemic solutions, such as renewables, for companies regardless of industry. The speaker emphasizes the need for people to be at the core of strategies for addressing these challenges and focuses on sectors such as technology that reduces emissions, agriculture, and mental health and well-being. They also talk about their own career path in sustainability, from internships and job opportunities to their current role at Top Tier Impact as the head of Community, responsible for managing a global network of events and collaborations related to impact and sustainability. Additionally, the challenges of sustainability in countries like Colombia are discussed, including greenwashing and the need for industry policy regulation. The episode also touches on upskilling for careers of the future and challenges faced by those from the Global South trying to enter the field. Overall, the episode provides practical insights into the world of sustainability careers and the importance of taking action towards a greener future.

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Timestamped Overview

[00:03:00] Manuela discusses their pursuit of sustainability and the importance of connecting various disciplines to improve systems and create a better planet.

[00:06:02] The speaker's interest in sustainability was sparked by a teacher who introduced the concept during university. She became passionate about it and chose to pursue a career in sustainability.

[00:08:29] Manuela pursued internships and job opportunities that aligned with their genuine interest in sustainability. She worked for a year at Selena, a company whose values resonated with their own, before becoming a digital nomad and joining Nomads Giving Back. Working in teams with diverse people and industries has been a priority for the author in their career journey.

[00:14:34] Tips for working remotely as someone from the Global South: - Language skills are crucial - Networking with people in person and digitally is important - Taking courses from reputable universities can boost your CV - Connection and networking can lead to mentorship and upskilling opportunities

[00:20:53] Future jobs will require measuring impacts. Green jobs are available in all industries. Corporate work and traditional education may not be as relevant in the future. Online courses from reputable universities are important.

[00:23:56] Study ESG instead of Corporate Social Responsibility. Voice Academy offers great courses and there is a well-done master's at the University of Valencia. Also recommended is studying the transition that humanity is going through through different disciplines.

[00:28:31] The person is skilled in communication, particularly in diverse environments, and has a passion for impact investing and sustainability. They were hired for their ability to adapt to different environments and build relationships in their previous role as head of community.

[00:31:06] As head of community, responsible for events and member support, covering various sectors with a focus on sustainability and impact. Manages collaborations and interviews applicants for community values. Has diverse skills in marketing and communication.

[00:40:51] Urgent action is needed to address climate change, biodiversity loss, and social issues. Renewable energy is necessary, but a systemic approach is needed. Focus should also be on agriculture, technology, and people's well-being.

[00:47:20] Software Impact connects investors, start-up founders, and professionals in impact and sustainability through its membership at $350/year. They offer events, including an ambassador program in 20 cities, to accelerate connections and promote growth in the impact space. Anyone interested in connecting in the impact space can access events through TTI, including corporates, founders, and investors.

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