David Whitelaw

"I believe that positive conservation impact comes from people actively managing natural resources, which in turn helps the communities who live within that landscape."

What was the most valuable thing you got out of CSL?

"Confidence and skills to strike-out and change my world and impact those around me"

Why are you passionate about sustainability? What was the moment or event that made you decide to become a ‘change maker’ in your field?

"I'm passionate about sustainability in my chosen field because I believe that positive conservation impact comes from people actively managing natural resources, which in turn helps the communities who live within that landscape. I started my journey towards creating a new enterprise during the 2014 fellowship year, encouraged by CSL guides and other creative fellows on the course. I was able to determine that this new conservation approach would change me for the better and in-turn help change the conservation industry for which I am passionate."

How did CSL play a role in directing your current path or project?
"CSL provided me time to consider my approach and guide me towards effort that would deliver the most impact. It was a series of events during the fellowship period that lead me to decide to start my own social environmental enterprise in partnership with like-minded entrepreneurs."

In 25 words or less, tell us why leadership for sustainability is important.
"Leadership towards a positive, sustainable way forward is necessary for good environmental, social, cultural and economic outcomes that our planet and our communities need."

What do you plan to do next on your sustainability journey?

"Grow my social environmental enterprise to become a larger community of like-minded people who engage with good business practices to provide better outcomes for those communities and landscapes we work."

What are three words you would use to describe the Fellowship Program?

"Powerful. Life-changing. Investment."