It was an exciting few days at the Urban Future Global Conference in Helsingborg, Sweden. I feel inspired, enriched and sustained by the community of people going out for the same vision: a better future for our world and the preservation of our livelihoods.
I can't put into words right now how moving many of the speakers, how enriching the workshops and how inspiring the people were. I am grateful to have been part of this special conference and for all the new acquaintances I was able to make there. People were represented in a wide variety of roles and from a wide variety of backgrounds: Mayors and activists, municipalities and companies, young and old. It is precisely this diversity that is needed to bring about change together. Climate adaptation and change is not just an issue for decision-makers.
One of the core messages that came out again and again was that acting on an ego trip for more money and one's own goals will no longer work in the future. Today, cooperation, networking and a shared vision are needed - and this out of deepest conviction for the contribution to a greater whole. The why behind our actions is becoming more important than ever before. Only then can everyone be in their power and make their unique and valuable contribution. We no longer have time to wait and debate whether climate change is really going to be that bad, or to stay within self-imposed boundaries that limit our actions and prevent innovation. We have to act, and we have to act now. And in doing so, it will happen that we make mistakes, because that is part of breaking new ground. We often shy away from the risk of making mistakes and thus block ourselves. I am firmly convinced that we can no longer afford to "wait" and that we have to be courageous.
It is also very motivating to see what wonderful projects have already been brought into the world and how much stamina and commitment individuals have for them. How much courage is also mustered to say what others do not dare to say and thus become unpleasant. It made me very angry to hear how difficult it is for such women in leadership positions, especially in politics, so that even personal protection becomes an issue.
It took time to come into action and to take the path of change. But now I am more sure than ever that something is finally happening and we are on the right path. So thank you to the organisers of this great, unique and valuable conference.
As one of the closing speakers aptly said: "This is not just a conference, this is a movement."