Sija Soman’s Post

For the past few years, I poured my heart into making a documentary film on Climate Change. "Climate Commons" marks my filmmaker debut, driven by an honest search for practical climate solutions in Aotearoa. Following its national premiere at the Embassy Theatre in Wellington last year, I am now aiming to share the doco with a wider audience across the motu. If you know anyone passionate about environmental film distribution, whether broadcasting firms, environmental agencies, community organisations or individuals, I would appreciate your help connecting with them. Please watch the trailer below: #ClimateCommons #FilmDistribution #ClimateChange #Aotearoa #CommunityImpact #Newzealand #PracticalClimateSolutions

Last winter was particularly challenging for me with recurring bouts of cold and demanding work. On a low-spirited day, a package arrived from lovely Freda Wells in Wellington, containing Vitamin C shots and a copy of Kiwi Diary. Both gave me a much-needed boost - one for the immune system and the other for cognitive health. The diary, filled with Kiwi art, recipes, poetry, and thought-leadership articles brightened my days. The 2024 edition of Kiwi Diary is set to launch on the 9th of November in Wellington (https://bit.ly/3QjFn16). This is an opportunity to get a copy and connect with esteemed artists, poets, writers, and scientists, including Caroline della Porta, Andy Reisinger, Dr Anita Perkins, Sally Hett, Katie Rickson, Ben Preston, and many others. Those who are unable to attend can order one online at https://lnkd.in/dZpBQawa

Thank you, Wellington, for receiving Climate Commons with such warmth and enthusiasm! The screening of the film at the iconic Embassy Theatre marked the launch of the Climate Commons Movement, aimed at fostering collaboration, sharing knowledge, and inspiring collective action to address the climate crisis. Huge appreciation to Freda Wells for her wonderful event management skills that made the evening truly special. #climateaction #climatecommons #newzealand #wellingtonnz

Truly honored to have Mayor Tory Whanau grace the Wellington screening of my documentary Climate Commons. Her endorsement of the Climate Commons Movement and presence alongside fellow community leaders underscored the vital role leaders play in driving collective action and inspiring hope amidst the climate crisis. Special thanks to Deputy Mayor Laurie Foon, Cr. Thomas Nash, panelists Lara Taylor, Ellie Tapsell and Cr. Nīkau Wi Neera, Christopher Cornwall, Zoe Studd, Kedron Parker, and many other passionate climate advocates for their presence. This event was made possible with the hard work and support of the amazing event organiser Freda Wells and sponsors Greater Wellington Regional Council and Commonsense Organics. #climatecommons #climateaction #climatecommonsmovement #wellingtonnz #newzealand

What do we seek from the economy? It is interesting to observe how the concept of economy, initially devised for household management, has evolved into a complex political economy. In this transition, we have lost focus on the core essence of the economic system – the management of households and the wellbeing of people. Our common measure of economic success, GDP growth, doesn't account for crucial externalities like climate change and biodiversity loss, hence it doesn't provide a realistic picture of growth or planetary health. It is high time we repurposed and reimagined our economic system. And here is an opportunity to do so – by participating in the "Economy for Public Good Conference" organised by the Wellbeing Economy Alliance Aotearoa NZ on 31st August, in Auckland. I have bought my ticket, and I look forward to learning from NZ thought leaders on Māori approaches, global doughnut, degrowth, and circular models. 🎯 Secure your spot before tickets are sold out: https://lnkd.in/gkjHx5rG #wellbeingeconomy #doughnuteconomics #degrowth #circulareconomy

Excited to share that I have successfully completed Cambridge University’s Business and Climate Change course online, a journey that has deepened my understanding of the net zero transition. Starting from envisioning a net zero future for New Zealand to exploring practical decarbonisation steps, it has been an eye-opener. Learning from esteemed Cambridge tutors and engaging with global participants from diverse industries and sectors has been a privilege. Together, we addressed the challenges and developed sector-specific strategies for driving effective decarbonisation. My perception of net zero has shifted from a mere buzzword to a strategic framework now. What resonated deeply with me is that decarbonisation isn't solely about mitigation – it's also about driving innovation and capitalising on commercial opportunities within emerging markets for sustainable growth. A key barrier to decarbonisation is the lack of future insights and a limited understanding of the innovative tools available to transform the challenges into opportunities. Learning outcome: I can now visualise a pathway for businesses/industries to transition to a low-carbon future. I can't wait to apply this learning in future projects. #netzero #decarbonization #newzealand #universityofcambridge #climatechange

Last Sunday was truly unforgettable, as my documentary film Climate Commons finally made its debut at Lido Cinema, Hamilton. The rush of emotions was overwhelming as I witnessed the realisation of what started as a vague idea three years ago, transformed into a 60-minute documentary. This has been an incredible journey of learning, growth, and transformation for me. In a world that is visually oriented, I knew that capturing hopeful stories of climate action on celluloid could make a difference. It hasn't been an easy task but my passion for cinema (thanks to the influence of Kurosawa and Bergman films in my teenage years) coupled with a touch of arrogance made me believe that I could make a film without any prior experience. Climate Commons is now embarking on a nationwide journey with screenings planned across the country. If you wish to organise a screening in your city, feel free to contact me directly. ❤️🙏🏼 #climatecommons #climateaction #newzealand #climatecommonsmovement

What can we do about climate change? As a mother and an economist, this question has echoed within me for a long time. Two years ago, a news article inspired me to visit New Zealand’s first managed retreat in the Bay of Plenty which completely changed my understanding of climate change. This experience set me on a journey to explore possible solutions to climate change. As I encountered beautiful stories of hope and determination, I wished to turn them into a film. As someone completely new to the art of filmmaking, this has been an incredibly difficult process. Last two years, I have poured my heart and soul into bringing this project to life. I am very grateful to those who encouraged me during moments of uncertainty, and those who were generous with their time to teach me, guide me, and share their own stories and insights (some are tagged below). Today, it fills my heart with immense pride to announce the release of my documentary film Climate Commons (60 min). The official screening is scheduled to be held on the 30th of July at Lido Cinema, Hamilton. This event will mark the launch of the Climate Commons Movement as we embark on a nationwide tour, raising awareness and facilitating meaningful dialogues about climate change. - For more info and to book your tickets, visit: bit.ly/46lxxuK - To organise a screening in your town, please reach out to me directly. James Shaw, Jennifer Nickel, Thomas Nash, James Renwick, Sophie Handford Louise Hutt, Carolyn Hill, Anna, Sarah Thomson, Lara Taylor, andrea Haines, Jo Wrigley, Freda Wells, Sarah L., Dan Hikuroa, Nia Phipps , Iain White, Justin Connolly, Tane Bradley, Clare Bradley, Nicki Douglas, Lani Kereopa, Eloise Gibson, Desna Whaanga-Schollum , Jacqui Forbes, Charlotte Catmur, Emma-Louise Emery-Sinclair, Frazer Baggaley, Jeremy Mayall, John Mandelberg, Andrew (Drew) Lorrey, Sam Dean Ministry for the Environment | Manatū mō te Taiao The University of Waikato Gen Less #climatechange #climatesolutions #climateadaptation #climatemitigation #ClimateCommonsMovement #newzealand #hamilton

Hopped on a jet boat to the Fieldays today-a refreshing 7-minute ride, bypassing hours of traffic and saving fuel. Couldn't help but imagine the potential of electric water transport. A fulfilling day learning about innovative projects and initiatives! #fieldays2023 #sustainabletransport #newzealand

I had an incredible experience at the three-day noho wānanga at Ohaki Marae last week. The theme of the wānanga, "E Oho! Awakening Aotearoa - Mobilising for Action" deeply resonated with me, sparking a powerful call to action to make a difference to te taiao. Using the marae as a space for learning and immersing myself in its rich cultural heritage, has been truly transformative. The wānanga brought together a diverse group of participants, including environmentalists, iwi and hapū leaders, scientists, artists, government agents, homemakers, and climate actors. We delved into the profound impact of colonisation across landscapes, kāinga, political and socio-cultural systems, explored strategies and shared tools for transformation. Within this inclusive and encouraging space, the very essence of a wānanga was brought to life through its emphasis on learning, research, and intellectual independence.   I feel incredibly privileged to have premiered my documentary film Climate Commons at Ohaki Pā. This moment marked the culmination of my two-year journey, dedicated to mapping out climate solutions in Aotearoa. Stay tuned for more exciting news on this front! 🎥🌏 A big shout out to Lara Taylor, Alison Greenaway, Dan Hikuroa and Desna Whaanga-Schollum who collectively led and organised this beautiful wānanga. #NohoWananga #AwakeningAotearoa #MobilizingForAction #EthicsofCare #ClimateAction #Newzealand #ClimateCommons