Jarami Bond: Sustainability renaissance man
Jarami Bond at Pacifica. Photo by Christine.
Who are you?
I am Chief Storyteller at Bond Studio, a visual storytelling company helping purpose-driven companies, non-profits, and entrepreneurs build their brands, engage their audiences, and unlock the power of their stories. We are a nimble collective of creatives specializing in video production, brand strategy, and web development. We exist to help our clients effectively amplify their stories of social and environmental impact with intent to build awareness, shift behavior, and inspire change. Our vision was birthed out of the realization that visual stories have the potential to humanize sustainability, going beyond metrics to drive culture toward real change.
What made you realize that you should be in the field?
Since childhood, I always had a deep connection to the environment. I immersed myself in encyclopedias, atlases, and books, devouring as much information as I could about the natural world. I developed an affinity for the built environment throughout middle school and high mschool, leading me to enroll at Civil Engineering at North Carolina State University. During a civil engineering internship with the NCDOT during the summer after my freshman year, I supported infrastructural testing on roadway projects. On this projects, I recognized that I cared more about the creeks and wetlands than the bridges and roadways I was supposed to be analyzing. Up until this point, I had no idea that I could actually turn my childhood passion for the environment into a meaningful career. I changed my major to Environmental Engineering and then eventually Environmental Science with a minor in Sustainable Materials & Technology.
What was your first job in sustainability? What did you learn from that experience?
My first job in the field was Sustainability Coordinator at Interface. Within this role, I was exposed to what it looks like for a company to truly do well by doing good. I was exposed to what it looks like for a company to holistically embed sustainability into its cultural fabric, manufacturing operations, and sales process.
Why do you think diversity in sustainability is important?
“Diversifying the sustainability field will inject the movement with new perspectives/approaches, help increase focus on environmental/social justice, bring the level of cultural sensitivity required to graciously engage with and serve vulnerable populations, and help influence broader demographics toward greater environmental/social mindfulness.”
Why did you want to get involved in Diversity in Sustainability?
Because this is what I live and breathe. My focus in the sustainability space centers around diversity, inclusion, equity, and justice. I appreciate the fact that Diversity in Sustainability is creating a comprehensive database that can help organizations easily identify qualified, talented, BIPOC sustainability leaders for meaningful opportunities.
What advice would you give to students that want to get into the field?
I wrote about this topic for GreenBiz several years ago, but I think the key things are to first, add value – go beyond just being passionate and provide clear, relevant examples from your experience and then demonstrate that these abilities are transferrable and leverageable to plug into meeting the company’s specific need. Secondly, it’s important to be strategic – you have to not only understand, embrace and be adept in sustainable business, but also capable of contributing to a core business function. Internships, externships, special projects and volunteer opportunities will be helpful there. Lastly, it’s important to build early. Build relationships with professors and advisers who can provide you with advice, industry connections and a listening ear as you process your interests. Network with professionals at career fairs and company mixers – and don’t forget your business cards!
Which sustainability leaders do you look up to?
People who inspire me: Van Jones, Majora Carter, Robyn Eason, Jasmine Lomax, Kimberly Lewis, George Bandy, and Lindsay James. I know many of them personally (except Van and Majora) and have watched them break barriers and overcome obstacles, carving out space in the sustainability movement for their unique voices and perspectives. Each of them are fearless trailblazers.
Photo: Jarami Bond
Do you have a mentor? How have they helped you in your career or personal growth? Yes, I have several mentors who have not only shared wisdom with me, but also opened doors through introductions to key players in my field, recommended me for thought leadership opportunities, etc.
How did you find them and convince them to be your mentor?
I didn't exactly convince anyone to be my mentor. Several offered mentorship. A few relationships just evolved organically. I kept asking questions, they kept answering, and here we are.
What was your proudest moment as a sustainability professional?
Being recognized as a 2017 GreenBiz 30 Under 30.
What quote do you most live by and why?
"To whom much is given, much is required." From my mother who homeschooled me from K-12 to various mentors who have taken me under their wing, I recognize that so many people have poured into me, helping me get to where I am today. Thus, I embrace the responsibility to invest in others to help them reach their goals.
What issues in sustainability are you most concerned about?
Environmental injustice within socioeconomically disadvantaged communities of color, the lack of diversity in our field, and of course climate change.
Check out more from Jarami at his website, including his writing. You can also see him speaking at Greenbiz ‘21 from February 9-11, 2021.