Birmingham City University
Elle MacMillan
Finalist, Sustainability Champion - Staff
Finalist
About
As a Trainee Employability Advisor, I led impactful sustainability initiatives at BCU as part of the Careers Team. I created and distributed a Green Careers & Skills Survey that gathered insights from over 335 students on how environmental issues influence their career choices. Acting on those findings, I built a partnership with The Wildlife Trust, promoting their Environmental Leadership Programme and co-delivered Green Skills workshops both online and in person. I also launched the Workwear Wardrobe initiative, securing over 300 donations from staff and through a partnership with the British Red Cross. Following the opening launch of the wardrobe, 63% of items went to supporting students in need. To strengthen University collaboration, I introduced ‘The Green Table’, connecting Sustainability and Careers teams through interactive activities across campus. Additionally, I introduced interviews for the Green Impact Project Assistant roles to provide students with interview experience & an insight into an environmental career.
Top 3 learnings
- I learned to embed sustainability into employability initiatives while responding directly to real student needs.
- I learned collaboration is essential for scaling low‑cost projects with lasting environmental and social impact.
- I learned to lead and project‑manage initiatives beyond my role through strong cross‑team partnerships.
What it means to win
It would mean a lot. Elle is an absolute superstar and it would be great to have her work being recognised with the award.
SDG
| 2026 | |
| Sustainability Champion - Staff | |
| Finalist, UK and Ireland |
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