Cross-Sectoral Convening: Rethinking Societal Response Around Climate Emergencies
Climate emergencies are no longer isolated events—they are ongoing, systemic crises that expose and deepen existing inequities and vulnerabilities. This interactive convening challenges the traditional disaster response mindset, shifting the focus toward community-driven resilience and equity-centered strategies for tackling climate crises.
Drawing from Goonj’s 26 years of frontline work across the diverse and vast geography of India, we will introduce a multi-sectoral, dignity-led model that has transformed disaster response into a vehicle for long-term social and systemic change. This session is not just about the mechanics of disaster response—we will dive deeper into the philosophy that makes this different approach possible. Human dignity, community agency, and sustainability are at the core of Goonj’s work, and we will explore how these principles can drive more inclusive, sustainable, and effective climate resilience globally.
Hosted by Goonj, this session will be facilitated by Anshu Gupta, Founder of Goonj, Jeroo Billimoria, Co-Founder Catalyst 2030 and Founder One Family Foundation, David Bonbright, Member of Global Leadership Group, Ashoka, Sanjay Purohit, CEO of Centre for Exponential Change, Tom Wein, Director of IDinsight Dignity initiative, Sophia Otoo, Programme and Community Lead, Schwab Foundation for Social Entrepreneurship, World Economic Forum. Gaby Arenas de Meneses, Co Chief Facilitator of Catalyst Now,Founder of Fundaciontaap, Ashoka fellow, Rotatary Peace fellow, social and serial entrepreneur along with other leaders, as we co-develop practical, locally adaptable strategies for scaling dignity-driven responses to climate challenges
This collaborative space is designed to explore how regional alliances can transform climate emergency frameworks from crisis management into sustainable, justice-oriented change.
Key Takeaways
Learn from Goonj’s proven approach that centers human dignity and fosters systemic change.
Co-develop actionable strategies for integrating equity, justice, and sustainability into climate resilience efforts.
Explore how regional alliances can scale innovative, community-driven approaches to address global climate challenges.
Who Should Attend?
This convening is ideal for:
Social Sector Innovators – Leaders in climate resilience, disaster response, and community-driven development.
Government & Multilateral Agencies – Policymakers shaping sustainable disaster response frameworks.
Global Foundations – Philanthropic organizations investing in climate action and community resilience.
Development Sector Media & Ecosystem Enablers – Journalists, funders, and collaboration facilitators amplifying climate resilience narratives and cross-sector partnerships.
Join us on the sidelines of Skoll World Forum in the Future Hub Skills Lab and become part of a movement to reframe the way we respond to climate emergencies—moving from short-term crisis management to long-term systemic transformation.