July 2008
The founder of a unique Melbourne-based organisation which is grooming the next generation of sustainability leaders has been named Australia’s Young Environmentalist of the Year.
Larissa Brown, the founder and Executive Director of The Centre for Sustainability Leadership, said today she was thrilled to have been recognised for her role in developing Australia’s future sustainability leaders.
Federal Environment Minister Peter Garrett presented Larissa with the inaugural award at the prestigious Banksia Awards ceremony in Melbourne last week.
Mr Garrett said Larissa set a wonderful example for her peers in establishing the Centre for Sustainability Leadership three years ago at age 24. The Centre’s flagship program, Centre for Sustainability Leadership Fellowship Program, brings young environmentalists together with leading thinkers and influencers to create the next generation of environmentally responsible leaders.
“As an environmental leader whose generation is next in line in taking up the fight against climate change, Larissa’s leadership and dedication to our environment sets a great example and bodes well for the future of the country,” Mr Garrett said.
Larissa said she was delighted that the unique nature of the Centre for Sustainability Leadership had been recognised. She said the concept was innovative and powerful and was aimed at helping young people who care about sustainability get into positions of influence.
“The Fellowship Program takes passionate emerging leaders and by matching them with experienced professionals, we arm them with the knowledge, skills and networks to create change,” Ms Brown said.
“At CSL we firmly believe the old ways of seeking change have failed. Our goal is to be part of the solution, creating real and systemic change through sustainability leadership and innovation.”
The eight month Fellowship Program consists of weekly workshops, retreats, sustainability projects and mentorship.
The Centre for Sustainability is currently working to make the program global.