Today I quit my job.
I’d bought my manager a gift from Tasmania as a way to say thank you for investing in me and supporting me through the last 18 months.
As I bared the bad news over hot chocolate and carrot ginger juice we reflected on the highs and lows.
I felt a sense of guilt because I didn’t want to leave my team stranded, although I know they’ll be fine without me. I felt bad for my manager because I knew he wouldn’t take it well.
He was of cause happy for me but sad to see me go.
Thinking of the opportunities this year has to offer, I would have loved to be part of the team to make our campaigns bigger and better.
I feel like I’m missing out but I also have so much to look forward to. I’m graplling with my need to control how my work will be carried on. I had a vision for what I could achieve and how I could improve processes.
I’ve started preparing for my move to Phnom Penh. Most of that has been researching what visa to get, how to rent an apartment, where to dispose of garbage etc.
I’m excited to return to Cambodia, the place which took my heart back in 2011 while I was on a volunteer placement. I’m excited to live in the capital city, Phnom Penh and be part of the culture, learn the eb and flow of local life.
I left my job because I wasn’t feeling a sense of satisfaction. I could’nt see where my efforts where going. I was frustrated with the long term game and I was loosing hope.
I went back to working with people because although I believe it’s vital we protect the environment. People are at the core of the world’s issues.
As we become more environmentally aware, policies change and sustainable practices are enforced.
We have to think about where these “environmental” or “sustainable” technologies and practices are coming from.
The World Economic Forum shed light on child labour in Ganah. Where children are working alongside adults hand mining cobalt, a raw mineral used in batteries.
As we see the rise of clean energy we have to think about the people making it a reality. We must demand transparency and sustainability in supply chains.
I’m constantly torn between advocating and working towards environmental vs. humanitarian goals.
I’m a strong advocate for holistic approach to sustainability that protects and builds resilience in our environment but also where people are living healthy, safe and happy lives.
I’m giving a voice to those who do not have one loud enough to reach people who can do something about it.