Ash Farrah

Principal Resources and Programmes Officer (Zero Carbon), Manchester City Council

Give us a brief description of your background

I moved to Manchester at 18 years old to study BSc Environmental Management and Sustainability. During this time spent studying I had the opportunity to gain a qualification as a Carbon Literacy trainer, this experience ignited my passion for influencing others on meaningful climate change action. Since this time, I have predominantly focused on community and youth engagement projects.

More personally I am a tropical fish enthusiast, football fan and a passionate school Governor.

Who/what inspires you?

Who – My mother. Her work ethic and passion for improving the quality of life and health care for all through her career in the NHS.

What – Manchester Climate Change Youth Partnership. I was originally a member of this group, which gave me an opportunity to play a part of forming Manchester’s 2038 zero carbon target. I now support the current cohort of young people in this group in an administrative role. Working directly with talented and passionate future change makers is incredibly inspiring.

What does the word leadership make you think of?

Leadership is driving forward the changes needed to ensure we do more, do it better, do it faster and communicate all of those things effectively.

How do you feel about taking part in the Future Leaders programme?

I feel extremely privileged to be involved with the FL programme. I’m very much looking forward to meeting like-minded people and strengthening my skills as a leader in this most important field of work!

What do you think are the keys to a sustainable future?

In my experience, I believe the key to a sustainable future lies in a careful balance of both top-down policy leadership and bottom-up climate change action. I hope to be able to facilitate this crucial balance in my current role.