At Kersia UK, we’re celebrating one of our newest Committed & Different (C&D) ambassadors, Andrew McStay, who recently completed the transformative C&D training programme. Through this initiative, Andrew joins a growing community of changemakers committed to spreading positivity, empathy, and sustainable thinking across the organisation.
What Is the C&D Programme?
The Committed & Different programme is designed to equip ambassadors with soft skills that empower them to become catalysts for change, both socially and environmentally. It’s about acting with:
Not everyone in the C&D community is an “idea generator” - and that’s the point. The programme recognises and values a diverse range of roles that contribute to positive change, including:
As more people across Kersia experience the programme, the aim is to start a ripple effect; where kindness, optimism, and a drive for meaningful change become embedded in how we work and support each other every day.
Andrew's Journey So Far
Andrew recently returned from an inspiring in-residence in Paris, where he connected with fellow C&D ambassadors from around the globe. Here’s what he shared about his experience:
Why did you decide to apply for the C&D training programme?
“I wanted to better understand the programme that my colleagues spoke so fondly of.”
What was the most inspiring or surprising part of your experience in France?
“Hearing some of the incredible work my fellow cohort had already completed before joining C&D, and how quickly we bonded over driving similar goals in Kersia.”
How has being part of the C&D community changed the way you think about your role at Kersia?
“Massively. Since undertaking this programme, I have taken more initiative to drive change and encourage others around me to be involved, both within my team and across other departments. I’ve also learned to better appreciate the viewpoints and concerns of others regarding my work, and I now consider their needs more thoughtfully in my projects before presenting them.”
What advice would you give to future C&D ambassadors or colleagues looking to become changemakers themselves?
“As I am extensively focused on sustainable development in my role, I felt I had a fairly concrete understanding of C&D and Kersia’s CSR objectives. This, combined with no ideas towards an external sustainable project, made me apprehensive at initially joining. From the first session, I realised how wrong I was. My eyes were opened to new ways of working and I gained valuable skills to support others and to enhance my day-to-day role.”
What three words best describe the C&D community?
“Uplifting, Fun, Energetic.”
Andrew returns from the programme with a renewed sense of purpose and the soft skills to help uplift those around him and ready to be part of the positive ripple effect at Kersia.
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