The people powering change

When Transitioners gathered in February, the energy was palpable. From the Assembly, a dedicated group of volunteers stepped forward, determined to explore the creation of a National Circle that could unite and support Transition groups throughout Wales and England. 

Over the past six months, the Wales and England Working Group (WEWG), backed by Transition Together’s Bridging Circle, has grown from strength to strength. With 44 initial volunteers and more joining along the way, this vibrant group has met regularly, built new friendships, formed sub groups, and begun laying the foundations for an internationally connected Transition hub – a passionate community built on imagination and collaboration.

Real voices, real impact – volunteers share their experiences

We asked some of our volunteers to reflect on what being part of the WEWG means to them. Their stories are not only inspiring—they’re proof that anyone can contribute and benefit, regardless of background or experience.

Ellie Meredith

Youth Circle and Communications Circle

Since joining Transition Together back in January, I’ve been reminded again and again that this movement is alive – rooted in community, in place, and in possibility. It has shown me what “everyday utopia” can look like in practice: people coming together with care, courage, and creativity to imagine something better. 

I especially value the intergenerational approach that TT has taken. It’s not just a token gesture of “involving young people” – it’s an invitation to work side by side. My role in the Youth Circle is to help highlight that we’re not simply the “next generation” waiting in the wings; we’re part of the conversation now. The work was about creating space for dialogue, collaboration, and learning – because real transformation always comes from working together. We don’t want to go it alone.  

Real transformation happens when we recognise that our strengths are complementary, not competing. Young people bring urgency, bold ideas, and a willingness to challenge the status quo. Older generations bring wisdom, grounding, and resilience. Together, we shape the world differently – and better. Massive thank you to you all – beaut humans!

John Bell

Income Generation Circle

It’s very empowering and fulfilling to be part of a movement full of hope, where we all believe we can collectively make a difference and move society and communities forward on the journey to a more equitable, sustainable world where we love and value our neighbour (human, plant or animal) as we do ourselves. 

I am involved in many organisations, and the potential funding opportunities we have been looking at in the Income and Generation Circle have been useful for them as well. I’ve also seen how consensus decision-making can be done effectively and have passed this on to other organisations. I hope this work will help bring the groups around the country together in a way that shows that we are part of something historic and bigger than what we are each achieving individually and in our communities.

After the transition, we still need jobs and to earn a living. Can we create businesses, working within the current system, that provide needed services that people and other businesses value and pay for, where the profits are used to support organisations and initiatives that are themselves vitally important, but not intrinsically revenue-generating? Could a new post-capitalist economy emerge?

Amanda Jones

Just Transition, Events, Mission and Operations, and Communications Circles

I get a great sense of connection through the whole group and the ability to voice my lived experience through this work. This links with the varied national work I do as a patient advocate making sure inclusivity is core. The active listening sociocracy approach gives me skills and confidence to inform my other work. I feel part of an exciting, emerging culture based on equity – and I get to work with fantastic people! 

The model of sociocracy used is level and ensures everyone is heard. Introducing this to local groups would be hugely beneficial. Just going round to ask each person if they have anything to say breaks significant barriers. This encourages people to stay with the group and reaches previous missed, important experiences to improve our world.

The more people we reach, the more diverse we can become with people across the world. Sharing our experiences with each other including different languages, cultures and challenges will help us to understand and live in gratitude. It is essential to work together with Transition Network international and share what we learn with each other. 

Paul Baker 

Mission and Operations Circle, Communications Circle 

Having retired at the end of last year and with the prospect of more free time, I wished to involve myself in something meaningful, that would give me a sense of purpose.  

It has been a very steep learning curve since then, especially coming to terms with a sociocratic way of working. Six months on I can really see the benefits of adopting this approach. So, maybe I am the exception to the rule in that you really can teach an old dog new tricks. It has also been fascinating how the two circles I am involved with are continually evolving. Originally, I found it quite daunting but now I am far more comfortable, feeling involved and enjoying working with the other team members.  

The positive that I take away from being involved in the Transition movement is that it is based on creating solutions. This gives me hope and the satisfaction of being part of something that is making a difference. Also, I believe that any change cannot be expected to come from above but will need to be locally based. So, become the change that you wish to see. 

Ben Abbo 

Mission and Operations Circle 

I am personally gaining from being part of something positive that brings people together. It is challenging and keeps my brain active!

There are so many amazing transition groups and I know from speaking to some myself in the South East UK that feeling you are not alone and a need for togetherness is vitally important for morale. The transition network can help people and groups share ideas, share successes and failures, prevent the re-invention of the wheel over and over, help groups meet specific challenges – e.g. particular political events, collaboration with groups and organisations doing great work outside of transition town, funding challenges, and insurance challenges. 

I hope that the strong focus in the WEWG on inclusivity, inner transition and just transition will percolate out to the wider network over time so that we can see more active participation from marginalised sections of society.

Could You Be Our Next Volunteer?

Feeling inspired? Our working circles need passionate people from all walks of life— from inside and outside the Transition movement. Whether you’re interested in youth engagement, communications, event planning, or diversifying Transition itself, there’s a place for you here.

• Youth Circle – Leading on youth voice and resources for youth engagement. 
• Just Transition Circle – Representing marginalised voices and diversifying the movement. 
• Events Circle – Helping with logistics and organising for gatherings. 
• Mission and Operations Circle – Shaping governance and working structures. 
• Communications Circle – Keeping our network vibrant on socials, newsletters, and website. 
• Income Generation Circle – Exploring funding options to keep our work thriving. 
• Inner Transition / Heart Circle (still forming) – Supporting a healthy group culture. 

Ready to get involved? Reach out today and discover where you belong in the Transition movement. Let’s shape something wonderful—together! 

Want to know more about sociocracy? You can find out more about this way of working on the Sociocracy for All website – https://www.sociocracyforall.org.

Thanks to Mouse About Town for the Transition Assembly photos