Lorraine Jenks is a professional TEDx speaker, a sustainability and ESG guide, and a green procurement, supply chain and circularity specialist. A teacher by profession (University of the Witwatersrand), with two additional Montessori Method qualifications.
An accredited Climate Reality Leader, trained by Former US Vice President, Al Gore, Lorraine also studied under the United Nations Eco-Labelling Project, the National Cleaner Production Programme, Green Building Council’s Interior Design and Décor, Green Leaf Carbon Auditors and is a qualified Procurement and Supply Chain Manager.
With her unique style, Lorraine has become a popular international speaker for all industry sectors. She runs workshops, consults, manages fully furnished “green” exhibition homes and hotels and owns two non-profit online directories with 27,000 opted-in subscribers and followers.
Her career as an activist began in the 1970s during her hippie years when she travelled to California and worked with the brand new Environmental Protection Agency. After returning to South Africa Lorraine spent 15 years as Contracts and Procurement Manager for Africa’s largest hotel chain – working on new builds, refurbishments, management and operations. It became her personal mission to find a more eco-friendly version of every product and service in her Purchasing Manual. Consequently, Lorraine has a special interest and expertise in eco-friendly interior design, décor and lifestyle.
Winner of 23 awards and honours for her work, with her indomitable team, Lorraine also manages two leading not-for-profit, not sales, “yellow page” product directories – www.hotelstuff.co.za for all sectors and www.greenstuff.co.za which lists only eco-friendly goods and services. These are used by up to 33,000 buyers a month.
Armed with understanding, practical tools and tips, Lorraine will leave you feeling informed and inspired to meet the increasing ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) expectations of your company; utilize AI (Artificial Intelligence); and fill the gaps in your sustainability journey.
