Matt Kendall

Keep persisting. Keep chipping away. Keep pushing boundaries... and become a boundary rider for change.

What was the most valuable thing you got out of the Future Makers Fellowship?

I've gained the tools, discipline and network required to become an agent for change

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 was reading two books while spending a few weeks at Bombah Point grieving over a profound personal loss. The first was Don Watson's 'The Bush', where upon gaining a deeper understanding of the bush, I was astonished to learn just how much had been lost since (and because of) settlement. I was also reading Bob Brown's 'Optimism', where I learned the power and effectiveness of fighting against these injustices being inflicted on our country - regardless of the odds.

It was the confluence all of these factors that spurred me in to action.

How did Future Makers play a role in directing your current path or project?

First off, it facilitated a much deeper understanding of myself. My strengths and weaknesses and motivations and handbrakes and then gave me a whole bunch of tools with which to manage all this (Look in). It then provided a framework for me to then apply this in the area where my passions intersected with my skills and my circle of influence (Step-up). Then it pushed me up and well out of my comfort zone to do things I never would have considered attempting before. I became fearless, more disciplined yet confident enough to be willing to fail (Step-out).

In 25 words or less, tell us why leadership for sustainability is important.

The incumbent forces hell-bent on maintaining the status quo are powerful and require persistent, bold and resilient leaders to counter them.

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

Keep persisting. Keep chipping away. Keep pushing boundaries... and become a boundary rider for change.

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

It changes lives

Matt can be contacted via Email: mattjkendall@gmail.com or twitter: https://twitter.com/mjkendall and found at Fromm