COP31 Outcomes and Leading Impact in times of uncertainty

Our social impact Meetup is back!

At a time when securing and sustaining funding has become more challenging for many organizations in the impact space, we are coming together to reflect on the outcomes of COP31, share resilient leadership experiences and practices, learn from one another, and connect

Welcome and Introduction by Devex (5 min) - Alex Cabaret
Mini-Briefing: Key Outcomes from COP31 (10 min) - Lluis Vilardell
Talk and Practice: Resilient Leadership - Navigating Uncertainty and Sustaining Impact (30-35 min) - Lauren Sorkin
Networking Drinks (60 min)

The Talk

When funding shifts suddenly, it is not plans or organizations that feel the impact first, but the people who sustain them.

Lauren Sorkin led the Asian Development Bank’s first climate investment strategy and served as Executive Director of the Resilient Cities Network, expanding it to more than 100 cities worldwide. Having navigated significant professional and personal challenges, she will share what she learned leading international organizations through periods of uncertainty and changing funding landscapes, and how those experiences gave rise to Embodied Leadership, the foundation of her work today.

Following her reflections on resilient leadership, Lauren will guide the group through a gentle movement and breathing practice. Through simple techniques for regulating stress and focusing attention, participants will explore how the way we breathe and respond under pressure shapes the way we lead. The exercises are done in pairs and small groups, creating an informal and supportive environment for people to connect on both a personal and professional level, beyond titles and institutions. It is a natural way to break the ice, build trust, and strengthen community, especially for groups that are beginning to work together or looking to deepen existing relationships. No prior experience or special clothing is required, just a willingness to move, breathe, and connect.