We asked Thais Lemos Ribeiro a couple of questions about her experience as a member of the Early Career Committee (ECC) of the Earth System Governance (ESG) Project. Our questions focused on her motivations for joining the committee, the key highlights of her involvement, the skills and insights she gained, and how the ECC shaped her ongoing engagement with the ESG research community. Thais was actively involved in the ECC between 2021 and 2025.
What motivated you to join the ECC?
It was a great opportunity to get involved with the ESG Project, networking with ECRs and senior scholars, and develop capabilities.
What were some of the highlights of your time on the ECC?
In 2023, I helped develop the ECR day for the ESG 2023 Radboud Conference. We worked as a diverse group of ECRs and senior scholars. We attempted to incorporate multiple activities, including writing practice and meditation, alongside a lecture. We also created the “No Fear in Early Career” podcast, and recording a podcast was something I was not comfortable doing. So, it helped me face my own fears. Also, the panel we did in the ESG 2024 Forum was amazing, because we could gather many scholars from the network and debate the history of the ESG Network and Science Plans. You can watch this panel at the ECR section on the ESG website. Finally, I believe the mentoring initiative is something an ECR can not miss! It helped me greatly in my PhD final year, not only with advice for my presentation, but also in envisaging opportunities after it.
What skills or experiences did you gain from being involved?
It was essential for networking and working with people from multiple backgrounds. It also opened some doors within ESG Conferences, like developing activities and getting involved with the network’s planning and other activities.
How did being part of the ECC impact your connection with the ESG Project or wider Earth System Governance research community?
It impacts greatly because the ESG Project cares about the ECR community. I felt welcomed and supported. Consequently, I’ll keep working within the network as a Research Fellow and part of the South-South Initiative. I hope we can work together with the next ECR group!
What advice would you give to someone considering joining the ECC?
Be creative, ask for support when necessary, and engage with the ESG Project initiatives. The ECC is a space to sow and flourish.
Thank you very much for sharing your experience, Thais!
