On 22 June 2026, we marked our first official engagement with the largest climate event in Europe with a rooftop apéro for the community to reconnect, network and align on shared ambitions. We extend our sincere thanks to all who joined us to make the evening meaningful and memorable. We are especially grateful to Natixis Investment Managers for generously hosting us, and to NatureAlpha for their valued support in making the event possible.

Beautifully guided through the evening by Naomi Kerbel, Director of Communications at SEC Newgate, Lamia Chouiten, Global Chief Sustainability Officer Asset & Wealth Management of Natixis Investment Managers and Vian Sharif, Founder and and President of NatureAlpha set the tone with remarks that captured both the urgency and the opportunity ahead for sustainability and investment.

Patrick Odier, Chairman of Building Bridges, emphasised the importance of this step forward for the Building Bridges community to deepen collaboration across the ecosystem, with key partners and supporters London. He also shared a preview of the key themes that will shape this year’s Building Bridges Summit (ahead of the event launch on 25 June), offering a glimpse into the conversations that we hope to drive impact across the system.

We were also privileged to hear from distinguished members of our community: Barbara Buchner, CEO of the Climate Policy Initiative, who shared her enthusiasm for hosting the Lab endorsement meeting at Building Bridges this year, marking its first time in Europe. Fiona Watson highlighted important developments from the World Business Council for Sustainable Development, while Mahmoud Mohieldin, UN Special Envoy on Financing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, offered a global perspective on the road ahead.

Guests enjoyed two sets from Orchestra for the Earth, with an introduction from Board Chair, Peter de Souza. Orchestra for the Earth uses world-class music to inspire, inform and influence audiences to protect the natural world we all share.

This first London gathering is only the beginning. We look forward to continuing the conversation and to welcoming many of you in Geneva in October.