Green Talents Moment?: Meet Sally Ho, Sustainability Writer & Radio Presenter

In 2024, Climate Incubator launched a new article series “Green Talents Moment”. We speak with individuals who contribute to sustainability through their work and projects. Our aim is to inspire readers to explore more possibilities for making contributions to sustainability??.

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This week, we had the pleasure of speaking with Sally Ho , a dedicated sustainability writer and radio presenter????. Her work has been featured on platforms like Green Queen Media, Teen Vogue, Sentient Media, and Radio Television Hong Kong. Sally is a diligent, curious, and articulate individual who possesses an unwavering enthusiasm for learning. Join us as we explore how she channels her passion and strengths into a meaningful career.

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Why did you choose to be a sustainability writer and radio reporter?

I think it's a blend of passion and my existing strengths. I've been deeply interested in sustainability issues from a young age. I did a lot of research on my own reading. Once I realised the severity of the climate crisis, I knew I wanted to work in this field. I am not a science or mathematical person, my degree in political science and international relations naturally led me toward reading and writing. It’s how I found my path in this field.

Could you share what your typical workday is like?

I start my day by scanning news headlines, articles, checking emails, and listening to podcasts to see what's going on and consume as much information as possible! Then I go through research, conduct interviews, and write content for my job. Another portion of my time is to reach out to different voices, conduct in-person interviews, and collaborate with my producer to create a new radio series, which will be released in May this year.

"As a writer, you sleep and then you wake up and there is a whole different world. You get caught up on all the hours."?

What are some challenges of your job so far?

One challenge I initially faced was conducting interviews for radio. It was nerve-wracking to express my thoughts as my brain raced ahead of my words. So the first time I did that was definitely challenging for me. Building confidence and becoming comfortable with meeting people took practice and time.

“Just take your time, know that no one's going to judge you for it and then you just go for it.….Do more practice and you will begin to get rid of that fear, … you know, 99% of the time you meet very nice people. So it’s OK.??”?

Dealing with climate anxiety and depression is another challenge. While there is positive news, it can be disheartening to see the limited efforts for the planet. To overcome this, I focus on the positive aspects. Interacting with passionate young individuals who actively seek solutions inspires me to continue my work.

How to stay motivated along the journey?

“It feels good to be doing a job that makes an impact. I think there is always something that's motivating.”

Identify your driving force and motivation. Connect with others in the field, read their work, and find inspiration. If you want to become a sustainability writer, for example, get connected with all the people out there. Engage with their ideas, prompting key questions and solutions. I personally find inspiration from others in the field, which fuels my own work.??

How do you think the role of a sustainability writer & reporter contributes to environmental sustainability?

I would say the primary role is to raise awareness. I believe people don't come into the world thinking they're going to destroy it! They just don't know what they can do to make this place better. As a reporter or writer, I provide that information so that people can make better choices. Transparency is another important aspect. Holding individuals and companies accountable for their sustainability claims is crucial. It's about ensuring they follow through on their commitments, such as adopting sustainable practices in fashion.

Would you encourage more people to join you as a sustainability reporter? What are some important qualities?

Yes, absolutely. We need more talent and drive to bring forth solutions and create change. Curiosity is a great starting point for becoming a writer. You have to be a person who always asks why, and thinks deeply, asking the right questions and re-questioning what someone tells you to make sure that they're telling the truth. Being a skilled information synthesiser is crucial. This means quickly extracting important points from a wealth of information. Over time, you can develop skills in reading, writing and critical thinking. I started as a writer and transitioned to being a radio and podcast host. Learning on the job is possible.

“Not everyone writes. Some people use their voice. Some people use visual elements. The main thing is there's so many different channels that you can pick to get people thinking, talking and learning and communicating that way.”?

What advice would you give to individuals who want to start a similar profession?

Practice. You don't get anywhere without practice, so no matter what you want to do within this space, whether it's writing or speaking or production, you just need to practice that skill. No one starts off being good. It only comes from doing the same thing over and over again until you get better.

Secondly, it's about putting your foot in the door, picking up whatever skills you can, and being curious and always learning. I never stopped learning in my job. I'm always picking up a new skill. I don't believe in 100% natural talent. I think it all comes from hard work. Given the narrow and niche nature of the field, it may require you to go deep into the field and reach out to people or organizations, expressing interest in learning and making contributions. ??

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Thanks Sally Ho for sharing her journey! It takes time and practice to become a good writer. Find your passion and stay motivated. Everyone can make a contribution, no matter what their background is!

Did you find this article insightful? Please share your thoughts with us in the comments section below??.

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Written by: Jessica Wong

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