Q: You’re working on an exciting project—the Educators SustainABILITY Academy. Can you tell us more about that?

RN: Yes, the Educators SustainABILITY Academy is a project we’re launching in February 2025, and it’s incredibly exciting. The goal is to help educators worldwide integrate green skills and sustainability into their curriculum, from schools to universities and workplaces. There’s a significant gap in the education system when it comes to equipping teachers with the tools to teach sustainability, and our mission is to fill that gap. By training educators in sustainability and green skills, we’re not only helping the current generation but also paving the way for future generations to be prepared for the green economy. This initiative is in line with global goals like those set by the UN and UNESCO for 2030, and it’s an integral part of our mission to upskill 8 billion people.

Q: Looking ahead, what trends in education are you most excited about, and what role do you think Fifty Shades Greener will play in shaping those trends?

RN: One of the most exciting trends is the increasing emphasis on green skills in education. In Ireland, for example, we’ve seen the launch of the first Green Skills Strategy for the Further Education and Training sector, and from 2025, sustainability will become part of the national school curriculum. This is a monumental shift, and I hope to see other countries follow suit. As an organization, we’re positioned at the forefront of this movement. By helping integrate green skills into every level of education, we’re ensuring that students are not only aware of sustainability but are equipped to be part of the green economy. In the future, I see Fifty Shades Greener as a key player in shaping a more sustainable education system, one that nurtures action-based learning and empowers future generations to lead the change.

Q: Lastly, what advice would you give to young women aspiring to make a difference in the education field?

RN: To the next generation of women, I would say: Make your weaknesses your biggest strengths. Don’t be afraid to embrace the challenges you face—they can become your most powerful tools. Be kind to yourself and others, define your vision clearly, and surround yourself with like-minded individuals who will help you bring that vision to life. And remember, you don’t have to go it alone. There’s a vast network of support out there for women in education and entrepreneurship, and together, we can create the changes we want to see in the world.