By Jakir Manela
I just got back from the TED Countdown Summit last week in Nairobi, Kenya, where I was one of seven faith leaders from across the globe invited to join this visionary group of global innovators, business executives, scientists, policymakers, next-generation leaders, artists, and activists — all united in our commitment to building a brighter future.
Why Nairobi? According to the TED organizers: “There is no path to achieving the Paris goals that does not run through Africa. Kenya boasts one of the greenest grids in the world, with 90% of its electricity from renewables and 50% of this from geothermal. With 70% of its population under 30, Kenya is also home to a new generation of leaders committed to leapfrogging old patterns and pioneering a resilient path to economic development.”
Over the course of three days, over 500 participants (half local, half global) heard over 40 climate-focused TED Talks from incredible leaders doing amazing things. There was also a variety of interactive workshops and discussions, including a dynamic session exploring faith-based initiatives, during which I spoke and facilitated deep and meaningful conversation alongside wonderful partners and participants. It was amazing to learn from so many world-class leaders and innovators driving systemic change across a variety of sectors, and a wonderful opportunity to deepen relationships with faith leaders, and cultivate new partnerships as well.
My TED Countdown experiences over the years have been remarkable for a variety of reasons, including the profound global diversity in the room, and relatively very few Jews, at least compared to most other rooms I find myself in these days. That said, I connected with several local Jewish green business leaders, and one of my biggest highlights was getting to know Tzeporah Berman, the powerhouse Canadian climate activist leading the global Fossil Fuel Nonproliferation Treaty. Melanie Katzman led our outing to KENVO—Kijabe Environment Volunteers—a local Nairobi-outskirts community reforestation project working in partnership with the World Resource Institute to create a youth-led initiative in biodiversity protection and climate resilience. And Lindsay Levin serves as co-host, emcee, and one of the lead organizers of each TED Countdown Summit. So rest assured, amidst this fascinating and uplifting global climate leadership gathering, there were also moments of Jewish Pride and Jewish Peoplehood.
As the TED Talks are released over the next 3-6 months, look out for more reflections from this gathering. There is so much to unpack and integrate into our work, and so many wonderful leaders and partners from which and with whom we can learn and grow together.
Our world is in the midst of a hard reset. Institutions are faltering, and achievements, like the Paris Agreement, appear increasingly precarious. Critical challenges that mark everyday life remain unresolved, deepening fears about our shared future. Yet amid these headwinds, there are clear signs of progress toward a better world. Booming clean energy industries in China, the end of coal in the U.K., and a new generation of leaders in Kenya committed to leapfrogging old patterns of development, all point the way forward. Positive tipping points – many already in motion – can take us further, faster.
— The TED’s Countdown Summit leadership
Here’s to the global coalitions that continue to build a better future amidst these dark times. Now is the time for serious action, and we each can do our part. If your Jewish organization is planning a sustainability project, Adamah’s Jewish Climate Leadership Coalition is here to help with planning and with financing. Connect with us today and learn how to get started.
L’chayim,
Jakir