After eight years of creative and energetic leadership, Harriet Festing, co-founder and Executive Director of Anthropocene Alliance (A2), will step down from her role on June 1, 2025, transitioning into a part-time role as Director of Development. Her move comes as she returns to England to be closer to family. “It has been the challenge and joy of my life to lead A2,” said Festing.

Taking the helm as Executive Director is Arif Ullah, A2 board member, a seasoned advocate for social and environmental justice, and former Executive Director of South Bronx Unite. Ullah brings nearly 20 years of experience in program management and grassroots organizing, and a deep commitment to amplifying the voices of communities on the frontlines of the climate crisis. “It’s an honor to join A2 and build on the incredible foundation Harriet and the team have laid,” Ullah said. “A2 has set a bold example for what it means to fight for environmental justice from the ground up, and I look forward to helping propel this work forward.”

Arif Ullah, with the city at his back, Queens, NY.

A2 board chair Joyce Coffee shared her enthusiasm about the transition: “Arif is a visionary leader whose passion for justice, deep understanding of frontline communities, and collaborative spirit will serve A2 beautifully. His skill in coalition-building and his long-standing commitment to environmental and social equity make him the right leader for this next chapter. He inherits a powerful legacy from Harriet, whose creativity, heart, and determination built A2 into a national force for frontline communities.”

This transition comes at a pivotal moment in A2’s evolution, as the organization continues to expand its reach and deepen its impact. A2 now supports more than 400 climate and environmental justice organizations in all 50 states and five U.S. territories. “The future of A2 is incredibly bright, and I’m excited to remain part of the team in a new role,” Festing shared. “Arif shares our values and vision. He will help A2 reach new milestones in its work for climate and environmental justice, and I look forward to supporting him as he leads A2 into this new chapter.”