In a recent LinkedIn post, Thomas Lingard discusses returning as a member of The Conduit and the links he sees between its purposeful AI community and sustainability work. This article reports on Lingard’s post and examines the themes he raises; it was not written by Lingard.
“It’s wonderful to be back as a member of The Conduit.”
Lingard describes The Conduit as a purpose-driven community and social hub in central London. Reflecting on his earlier experiences there, he recalls debates, dinners, chance encounters and new connections. His post presents the organization not only as a place for events, but as a network where people working on social and environmental challenges can meet.
Connecting AI and sustainability
A central point in Lingard’s post is that responsible AI and sustainability should be considered together. He says he is pleased to see a “thriving purposeful AI community” developing at The Conduit alongside its sustainability-focused groups. The connection matters to him in light of his previous role at Unilever, where sustainability was among his areas of focus.
“These movements are intimately connected in my view”
That short observation is the post’s main argument. Lingard does not set out a detailed policy framework, but signals that work on AI’s social purpose and work on sustainability can benefit from shared networks and programmes. He also points to the Centre for Future Generations (CFG), saying he looks forward to connecting its work with The Conduit’s community.
A community built to sustain connections
Lingard also credits The Conduit’s founders, Paul van Zyl and Nick Hamilton, and its team. He describes the institution as having endured since its founding in 2018, while emphasizing the ongoing effort needed to keep it active. His message combines recognition of that work with an invitation to fellow members to reconnect in London.
“So Kudos to Paul van Zyl and Nick Hamilton for building this institution which has stood the test of time since its founding in 2018.”
In Lingard’s account, the value of a purpose-driven hub lies partly in the conversations and relationships it enables. His recollection of being challenged in a debate by Sandrine Dixson-Declève adds a personal example of the exchange of ideas he associates with the venue.
An invitation to connect
Lingard closes by asking members to contact him through the post or The Conduit app and to look out for him in London. The invitation reflects the post’s broader emphasis on connecting people and institutions across areas of work. For readers following responsible AI and sustainability, his message is that these conversations are already taking place within overlapping communities—and that he intends to help link CFG with The Conduit’s networks.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Thomas Lingard on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on November 5, 2026 | View original post on LinkedIn →