Sustainably Smart Talks: From PhD research to global conversations

Loughborough Doctoral Researcher, Aobakwe John Makgarapa, is building global impact through his podcast and YouTube series, ‘Sustainably Smart Talks’.

His platform connects innovators from the UK, New York, Europe, and the Global South to discuss sustainability, clean technology, and the future of industry.

Since its launch, the channel has grown to over 8,500 subscribers, reaching audiences well beyond academia. Episodes feature conversations on renewable energy, intelligent manufacturing, green entrepreneurship, and sustainable fashion. The channel aims to make sustainability feel practical, measurable, and inspiring, translating high-level research into real-world action.

Aobakwe has been recognised for his impact, having been shortlisted for this year’s PhD Awards in the Community Impact category and Vice Chancellor’s Annual Awards in the International Reputation category.

Looking ahead, ‘Sustainably Smart Talks’ will continue to highlight stories that matter to students, staff, and alumni, with new episodes in production that focus on global collaboration and career pathways at the intersection of technology and sustainability.

Aobakwe commented: “We translate research into actionable conversations so anyone can take the next step toward a sustainable future.”

For any queries, please email a.makgarapa@lboro.ac.uk or smarttalksustainably@gmail.com.