Stephen Lavery

Stephen grew up in Belfast during a time when political unrest continued to affect daily life. These circumstances encouraged him to apply himself fully at school and to aspire towards a different future. He studied Physics alongside other STEM subjects at A level, before undertaking work experience at a local engineering firm.

After leaving school, Stephen went on to study Astrophysics at the University of Edinburgh. Following graduation, he moved to London and began working at Kantar, a market research firm. It was here that he discovered a strong interest in data, research and insight. Reflecting on this stage of his career, Stephen emphasised the value of internships and work experience, encouraging us to “gain as much as you can.”

As he moved forward in his career, Stephen realised that financial success alone was not what solely motivated him. Rather, he wanted his work to have a meaningful impact. This led him to the non-profit sector, where he worked for several years at Macmillan Cancer Support, using his previously learnt data analysis skills to help improve outcomes for patients and donors.

Eventually, Stephen applied for a role at Earthshot, a move he described as taking on “30% of the role and trusting I’ll learn the rest.” He shared that his decision was fuelled by an ambition to contribute to work that not only benefits organisations, but also people and the planet. During the talk, Stephen outlined Earthshot’s mission. It was founded in 2020 by Prince William and aims to identify and reward solutions to the world’s urgent environmental challenges. Within the various inspiring winners, Stephen pointed out ‘Friendship’, a Bangladesh-based organisation that combines education and healthcare with climate resilience.

Friendship’s work was particularly impressive, as their mangrove afforestation plan has already planted over 650,000 mangrove trees across 200 hectares, helping to protect coastal communities from cyclones while also restoring ecosystems.

Stephen also told us that he volunteers at a community garden in his spare time. He reminded us that making a difference does not always mean working on large global initiatives, and that small, local actions are equally important and valuable.

Listening to Stephen’s journey reminded many of us that there is no conventional or straightforward path from education to a career. From Belfast to Edinburgh University, to market research in London, and ultimately to global environmental action, his story demonstrates the key message that he was presenting to us: stay openminded.

We left Student Discussion feeling encouraged to think more openly and ambitiously about our future careers, reassured that a single decision does not define an entire professional path. Stephen’s journey showed us that with an open mindset, it is possible to move between sectors and explore different fields, while still finding meaningful ways to contribute to positive change.

Chidalu, Y13+

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