Enivronmental Social Governance (ESG) is about is all about creating a better world for everyone. By integrating ESG considerations into business practices, we can promote ethical decision-making, reduce environmental impact, foster diversity and inclusion, and ultimately, create a more sustainable and equitable future. When companies prioritise ESG, they're not only benefiting their stakeholders, but also society as a whole. By reducing their carbon footprint and embracing sustainable practices, they're helping to mitigate the impact of climate change and protect our planet for generations to come. By fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace, they're promoting equality and providing opportunities for everyone to succeed, regardless of their background. And by prioritising ethical decision-making and transparent governance, they're building trust with their stakeholders and contributing to a more stable and prosperous economy. At the end of the day, ESG isn't just about checking boxes or meeting regulatory requirements - it's about creating positive change in the world. Whether you're an investor, a business leader, or simply someone who cares about the future of our planet, ESG is an essential part of building a better world for everyone.

Volunteering in Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and Climate / Social Rights Groups can be an excellent way to get exposure to ESG and set yourself up for future career opportunities. Not only does it give you a chance to learn more about the issues at hand and the various approaches being taken to tackle them, but it also allows you to develop key skills such as leadership, project management, and communication - all of which are highly valued in the ESG space. By getting involved in ERGs and social groups, you can gain a deeper understanding of the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion, and how it intersects with ESG. You can also learn about the various ways in which companies are approaching sustainability, social responsibility, and governance, and gain valuable insights into how these approaches impact business performance and reputation. But perhaps most importantly, volunteering in ERGs and social groups is a great way to build connections and expand your network in the ESG space. By working alongside like-minded individuals who are passionate about creating a better world, you can forge relationships that may lead to future career opportunities or collaborations.

In our most recent colleague engagement survey, we scored in the top 5% of the Financial Sector for Inclusiveness. Despite this not being my personal achievement (it was very much down to our outstanding HR and Culture Teams) I am proud to be a part of the bigger picture and working for an organization that prioritises people.