International policymakers, diplomats, researchers and sustainability experts gathered at the London Borough of Redbridge Town Hall for the Climate & Sustainability Leadership Forum, held during London Climate Week 2026.
The forum brought together government representatives, environmental leaders, academics and community organisations to discuss climate leadership, sustainable development and international cooperation, while highlighting the importance of collective action in tackling global environmental challenges.
The event was led by Ganesh Kuppala, who served as Chair of the Mayor's Committee and Master of Ceremonies, guiding discussions focused on practical climate solutions, innovation and community engagement.
Among the distinguished speakers were H.E. Dr Rajesh Jeetah, High Commissioner of Mauritius to the UK; Councillor Bert Jones, Mayor of Redbridge; Jas Athwal MP; Santhosh Kumar Joginipally, former Rajya Sabha MP and Chairman of Igniting Minds; Suresh Yadav of the Commonwealth Secretariat; Councillor Vanisha Solanki; Councillor Jo Blackman; Dr Ornicha Daorueng of the International Centre for Sustainability Research; and Nazia, CEO of TreeHouse Nurseries.
Opening the event, Mayor Bert Jones reaffirmed Redbridge Council's commitment to environmental sustainability and community-led climate initiatives, while local leaders outlined the borough's plans to build greener and more resilient neighbourhoods.
Delivering the keynote address, Santhosh Kumar Joginipally called for stronger collaboration between governments, businesses, educational institutions and communities to accelerate climate action. He highlighted the achievements of Igniting Minds, including the plantation of more than 196 million trees, alongside large-scale water conservation and environmental awareness programmes inspired by the vision of former Indian President Dr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam.
Dr Rajesh Jeetah emphasised the importance of international partnerships in addressing climate change, while Jas Athwal MP underlined the role of public policy and community participation in achieving long-term sustainability goals.
The forum also featured presentations on research-led climate solutions, Commonwealth sustainability programmes and the importance of environmental education from an early age.
