Shikha Dhawan, Manager, Governments & Policy, South Asia

August 1, 2025 2 min read

Welcome to our employee interview series. Read on for a glimpse into what working at Climate Group looks like.

Why Climate Group?

For me, Climate Group sits at the rare intersection of purpose, impact, and action.

When I first came across the organisation, I was drawn to how it doesn't just talk about change but works directly with those who can make it happen, from subnational governments to businesses. I also appreciated that it offered space for experimentation and growth while staying rooted in impact. And of course, the people stood out to me. They are thoughtful, passionate and genuinely collaborative, which sealed the deal for me.

What does a regular day look like for you as a Project Manager, Government Relations?

There’s rarely a “regular” day and that’s part of the fun! 

My day might begin with reviewing on-going projects or meeting with my remote team of climate fellows, and could end with drafting a funder proposal or finalising a donor report. Somewhere in between, there’s likely a government coordination call or meetings with colleagues across different time zones. Some days are also spent deep in spreadsheets, reports, or slide decks. 

It’s a mix of big-picture thinking, strategy and meeting timelines and honestly that’s what makes it engaging. There’s a good mix of structure and surprise and every day brings something new.

What do you enjoy most about working at Climate Group?

The sense of shared purpose. Even across continents and job roles, there’s a common commitment on how everyone here genuinely cares about creating impact. That, and the space to take ownership. I've been able to lead projects, experiment with ideas, and grow into responsibilities that might have taken much longer to access elsewhere. It’s empowering and motivating in equal parts.

What have you learnt from your time here? 

A lot - I’ve realised that climate action is rarely linear. It’s complex, layered, political, people-driven and shaped by context. I've come to understand that systems change requires a lot of patience, persistence and relationships that go beyond checklists and reporting cycles. I'm inspired by my colleagues: their ways of thinking, their leadership styles and how they approach challenges with creativity and care. I’ve also grown a lot personally, especially in adapting to change, building resilience, and leading with intent. Each project, and each interaction, has added something meaningful to this journey.

Who or what inspires you in your work?

I'm most inspired by the quiet, everyday leadership I see around me especially during my fieldwork; the stories that rarely make headlines, led by people creating change in their own ways, often without recognition or resources. Their persistence keeps me grounded and reminds me why this work matters.

How do you stay motivated to keep driving climate action, fast?

The urgency of the climate crisis in itself is a constant reminder that we cannot afford to slow down. What keeps me motivated is seeing progress, whether through a policy shift, a project taking shape, or partners stepping up their ambition. Knowing that our work contributes to tangible change, and that we're part of a larger collective effort, helps keep the momentum going.