Yasmeen Richards

My time with CSL enabled me to step back and assess my current path versus the one I needed to be on.

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

CSL reminded me to always back myself, especially when it comes to taking big leaps.

Why are you passionate about sustainability?

I'm passionate about many things, but food and human behaviour top the list. I have always known deep down that I wanted to combine those passions to help people become more aware of the way we consume food, and the way it makes us feel about ourselves. We're only just beginning to understand the relationship between diet and mental health, and I want to be part of the movement that incorporates sustainability (personal, environmental, social) into this exciting, emerging field.

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

My time with CSL enabled me to step back and assess my current path versus the one I needed to be on. It empowered me with a community of supporters who backed my every step toward shifting careers while also expecting our first child. Our time together each week, in addition to hearing some amazing speakers across business and not-for-profit, helped me gain a better understanding of the vastness of sustainability as a field and where I could best dive in to make an impact.

Why is sustainability leadership important?

Empowering people with the skills and self belief to create positive change is the best chance we have at making a better world.

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

In 2017 I'll return to school to start my Masters/PhD in counselling psychology. After spending the past six years between the arts, philanthropy and business, I'm ready to return to my first love of behavioural science to help people be their best selves and foster healthy relationships with food. I look forward to working one-on-one with people and families, seeing life through a thousand lenses, to help them achieve sustainable personal wellbeing.