Co-operative conversations
On line interviews and discussions with invited guests
In conversation with ... Mike Wistow
Co-operative Conversations is a relaxed and friendly series of interactive online discussions for members of UKSCS and anyone interested in finding out more about co-operatives, co-operation, co-operative history, and contemporary issues, co-ordinated by Mike Wistow.
Mike, a trustee of UKSCS from 2019-2024, and previous chair of the Society, has a deep and enduring attachment to the co-operative movement, based on both experience and philosophy. He is currently on the board of directors at Lincolnshire Co-operative. He has previously been a trustee in a community arts organisation, a college of further education, and a training and education charity supporting people in and moving out of the criminal justice system.
Mike was previously secretary, and then chair of NPRIE, the national probation research body. He worked with the Home Office, universities, and criminal justice bodies to understand what constitutes effective intervention, which then informed national policy to move in the direction of evidence-based practice. He is the founding director of Aegir Consulting Limited which has worked with several third sector bodies on developing and implementing longer-term strategies.
Co-operative conversations coming soon
Giovanna Speciale - 19 May 2025
South East London Community Energy (Selce) is an award-winning kick-arse community energy group. Dr Giovanna Speciale is one of its founders and its CEO. She and her fellow residents started Selce with nothing but big ideas; she aimed to transform the energy system in SE London from the grassroots to make it fit for the future. Selce now owns half a megawatt of solar PV and LED assets; they enable over 1000 vulnerable households per year to reduce their energy costs (and carbon) always evolving new ways to combat fuel poverty; they support households, community venues, and businesses to manage their retrofit and renewable energy journey. She is a recovering academic who worked for 10 years as a consultant researcher in the community sector. Her M.Sc. in Energy Policy gave her the tools to understand the transformative role of community energy. Living on board a solar and wind-powered off-grid Eco houseboat gave her the financial freedom to volunteer to get Selce off the starting blocks. Her role at Selce has evolved from ‘do-everything’ (administrator, energy advisor, project developer, fundraiser, asset manager, project manager) to one of leading a team of over 50 staff, volunteers, and voluntary Directors. Her commitment to grassroots action that puts the community at the heart of our energy transition remains constant.
