From Citizen to Changemaker: My Journey into Sustainability and Community Support (by Jen Sargeant).
Time and time again, we hear about the power of storytelling – how relaying moments from people’s lives can bring about powerful imagery and inspire action. We’ve been fortunate to attend recent webinars and online events which highlight how storytelling has become a vital tool in climate action and sustainability. It’s not just about facts and figures; it’s about people, their journeys, and the barriers they overcome, which may be physical, mental, or otherwise.
With that in mind, I’d like to share a short story about my personal journey, and how I came to work on the Staffordshire Green Network at Support Staffordshire.
🌍 The Beginning: A Citizen with Curiosity
I started out as a citizen, a member of the public, who began exploring ways to better the planet around the time of Covid. I stumbled across a local Facebook group called Plastic Free Rugeley. People were sharing ideas on upcycling, where to take hard-to-recycle items like soft plastics, promoting interesting local eco-events and so much more.
I had small children at the time and needed something I could do to empower and ignite my passions but also excite and educate my children; not an easy feat in their case if it didn’t involve trains and construction machinery, either real life or toys! However, one thing we all shared a passion for was the outdoors and nature.
🎨 A Turning Point: Nature, Art, and Connection
One day, I was fortunate to come across an online event hosted by the Transforming the Trent Valley scheme. Although it was online (as many events were during Covid), the event focused on connecting with nature through imagery and art – another strong tool of storytelling. This was what felt like the beginning of my personal journey, which continued with attending training courses, getting involved in local energy projects, volunteering on youth and environment projects, and ultimately led me to my role as Staffordshire Green Network Project Officer with Support Staffordshire.
💬 Why Storytelling Matters
Stories like mine – and yours – matter. They remind us that change doesn’t always start with grand gestures. Sometimes, it begins with a Facebook post, a local event, or a conversation with someone who shares your passion.
So, whether you’re just starting your journey or are well on your way, never underestimate the power of your story. It might be the spark someone else needs.
Share your stories with us via our Facebook group.
Find out more about the Staffordshire Green Network.
Resources, events and other interesting things
Britain Talks Climate, 2025 Update. Find out about how to talk about climate action with different groups of people – or Take the quiz to find out what segment of society you fall into. Are you surprised with the result? Discuss on our Facebook group!
Green Gathering at Kingswood Trust, South Staffordshire, Saturday 18th October, 10am-1pm.
Kingswood Trust are opening their beautiful 9-acre site to celebrate nature, sustainability, and community action. Enjoy interactive trails, hands-on activities, and inspiring ideas to help protect our planet.
Whether you’re a seasoned eco-warrior or just starting your journey, there’s something here for everyone.
Book your place through Eventbrite.
Funding
Green Community Grants Programme – The Wildlife Trusts
Up to £25,000 available for projects which:
- Contributing to nature recovery and responding to the climate emergency
- Improving nature-rich spaces and access to them
Deadline 8th October.
VCSE Grants Scheme for Tamworth
Applications will be invited from £500 to £2,000 for projects which:
- Helps tackle the causes of inequality in our communities
- Helps develop and safeguard our environment and open spaces
- Increases opportunities to participate in arts, heritage and sports activities
- Increases volunteering and civic pride
- Helps tackle causes and effects of poverty and financial hardship
Deadline 26th October.