When working toward a more sustainable future through technologies and narra­tives that challenge the current fossil fuel economy, it can often feel like swimming against a raging river of obstacles. But after one week at the IKEM Academy, I felt something different — not only supported, but encouraged by the current itself.

Between talks, workshops, and a diverse group of inspiring people, the image of a brighter future became increas­ingly tangible — with every new insight, every note taken, and every meaningful conversation.

By the end, it felt as though the future I had been imagining — that post-carbon utopia — was already beginning to take shape. It existed, in a way, at IKEM. And I left recharged, ready to keep working toward it, now with a few more people by my side.

Coming from the field of IT and Green Software, the IKEM Academy gave me an invaluable insider intro­duction to many facets of the Green Energy sector that I had not been exposed to before. I really enjoyed the in-depth talks, the field trip to the wind turbine, inter-disci­­plinary discus­sions, and hands-on workshops with Elery Studios, which especially gave everyone the oppor­tunity to connect and think about challenges in holistic and creative ways. I still quote the key takeaway from last year’s conference–which is that we already have the technology and tools that we need to reverse global warming–but we need to be smarter about how we do story­telling and use better strategies to influence individuals, lobby for policies, and change culture.

Participating in the IKEM Academy 2023 offered me a rare oppor­tunity to not only engage but learn from, and with leading climate thinkers and practi­tioners. The cross-sectoral insights and strategic discus­sions on climate gover­nance have signif­i­cantly informed my work, especially in shaping inclusive commu­ni­cation strategies for climate action in Africa.

My time at IKEM Academy in Berlin in 2023 and 2024 was outstanding. It blended deep scien­tific knowledge with innov­ative practical approaches in energy and climate. Diverse programs, workshops, and field visits expanded my under­standing and creativity. The team’s profes­sion­alism and warm cooper­ation enriched and made the experience enjoyable.

It was undoubtedly an enriching experience which allowed me to, simul­ta­ne­ously, deepen and challenge my knowledge regarding climate change action and alter­native energies. The diversity of perspec­tives brought on by the partic­i­pants contributed to break out of tradi­tional notions and simpler ways of thinking about these issues. I partic­u­larly enjoyed the inclusion of gender & diversity and community engagement aspects, which highlighted the need to rethink action and narra­tives around climate change and energy transition, both crucial elements in the reality we are facing as a global community.

I often find myself thinking about the speakers—especially the climate justice lawyers. It’s so cool to see people from such different backgrounds and indus­tries working toward the same cause. I also loved the mix of art, city, and climate—such a fun and creative way to spark new ideas!