The Judges
The judging panel is a collection of professionals from diverse backgrounds that will evaluate the submissions using their unique experiences in the sustainability world.
Fran
Young people didn't create the crisis we're in; they're inheriting a world that desperately needs transformation without having been involved in the choices that got us here. It's vital that their voices be heard if we want to build a future that radically restructures the systems we have now, because it's the next generation that will be facing the consequences of the action (or inaction) that happens now.
I'm always interested in climate solutions, adaptations and designs that are intersectional in their approach. We've seen the effects of 'top down' ideas presented by the most privileged in society for generations; the results often include glaring omissions that fail to consider the needs of marginalised communities. I'm interested in listening to the voices of those who are most affected by the climate crisis, and young people are paving the way when it comes to centring social justice and community care in conversations.
My hope is this competition will inspire students to know that there is a role for everyone in the climate movement. We don't just need scientists or protestors in the street, we also need designers, writers, cup-of-tea-makers, photographers, filmmakers, social media posters, food makers, speakers, builders, musicians, money managers and so much more. I want to see people get creative and dream radically, but I also want them to recognise that there's a space for their passions to overlap with building a better world. We need everyone we can get, and there is a space for you!
Nuno
I currently lead the sustainability team at Wilkinson Eyre architects, focusing on environmental design, net zero carbon design strategies and building performance. I have a multidisciplinary and cross sector background, having trained as a civil engineer before specialising in sustainable design. As part of the LETI steering committee, involved in the Net Zero Carbon Building Standard, and a design tutor at UCL, I consider myself an active member of industry groups focusing on sustainable design.
Working in the intersection between engineering, architecture, and research, I am passionate about collaborative action to improve our built environment and mitigate the effects of climate change. In my involvement in Shade the UK, I am keen to share knowledge on passive design strategies, raise awareness of the issues we are facing, and contribute to drive effective change.
Shreya
Through Shade Islington, our goal is to influence the next generation into thinking positively about the climate crisis to explore what they can do to help their community. Climate change can be an overwhelming problem to think about tackling, so I hope that Shade Islington can show how young people can make a significant impact by shaping their local community first. By understanding that the climate crisis can impact those close to them, such as family, neighbours, and peers, young people can use their voices, passion, and determination to inspire collective action and pave the way for a more resilient community. As the future leaders, innovators, and decision-makers, they possess the power to drive positive change.
Additionally, young individuals have such bright minds which they can use to contribute their own unique perspectives, skills, and energy to address local challenges. By actively participating in community initiatives, young people can shape the future of their neighbourhoods, advocate for issues that matter to them, and make a lasting impact on the lives of others.
As a sustainability consultant working in the built environment, I see day-to-day how new buildings and public spaces can be designed to be sustainable and resilient. Therefore, I will use my experience when evaluating submissions by seeking how innovative solutions can be used to adapt our existing buildings and locally used spaces. In particular, I would love to see how the students consider the diverse needs of the most vulnerable in their community and how their work can inspire other London boroughs to care about overheating and climate adaptation.
Debra
I’m a senior architectural designer at AHMM, working as an architect as well as a project manager to coordinate multi-disciplinary teams to produce buildings. My motivations have changed in the last 5 years. I’m passionate about doing everything I can to help slow climate change while becoming more aware of the problems we face with regards to the devastation of our landscape, destruction of habitats and extinction of wildlife. I have 15 years’ experience as an architect in the built environment, I have completed a landscape ecology course and have been involved in community work for greener city grant applications. I also have 2 children and am exposed to a younger generation’s perspective. As a judge, I hope to expose myself to the minds of younger collaborative thinking. I’m hoping to learn from the submissions and the thinking behind them to help me see the world from different perspectives.
I wanted to get involved with Shade Islington because it is making people aware of how climate change is affecting all of us, particularly the most disadvantaged. I share similar values to the STUK ethos, and I want to apply my skills, experience, and passion to the cause. Additionally, it is critical for young people to be engaged in finding solutions to the climate crisis because things need to change for good not just for now. By engaging young people, they can tailor their future around living in a more sustainable way and they have the potential to influence others. We all have a responsibility to slow down climate change and we all can make a change.
From the student’s outputs, I am looking for solutions that are practical, with the ability to have a long lifespan, made with products that have a low carbon footprint, where minimal waste is produced, while being uniquely clever yet simple. I want the student’s to come away from the competition with an understanding that climate change doesn’t have to be too complicated to comprehend and therefore not do anything about. Realising that there are simple things they can do that will make a big difference.
Howard
Howard is Director of Visitor Experience at Sadler’s Wells Theatre, leading the operational teams in the exceptional delivery of estate management, safety, security and environmental objectives.
Over the last 20 years, Howard has undertaken numerous voluntary roles in charities, with a drive to improve the quality of life to reduce crime and antisocial behaviour in London Boroughs.
His voluntary work has involved developing youth engagement projects, working with schools and youth centres on road safety, knife crime. Howard was part of the early establishing of Friends of the Parks Groups, that now work tirelessly to provide safe green spaces for everyone to enjoy, learn and play in.
Furthermore, Howard specialises in Health, Safety and Sustainability Management and is leading the work at Sadler’s Wells to become Net Zero by 2050.
A father of three young children, Howard recognises the importance to protect our planet now and for future generations, using innovative approaches, that reduce the carbon footprint and bring long lasting benefits.