Kate Cooper

I bring together scientists with influencers and decision-makers to enable them to see fertile common ground for the social and civic benefit of cities, notably my home city of Birmingham UK.

The New Optimists began with the publication of a book of that name, a complilation of essays by regional scientists on what they were optimistic about, with a Foreword by Jenny Uglow.

The New Optimists Forum is currently on a year-long scenario planning project generating possible food futures for Birmingham in 2050.

I am Bailiff (Chair of the Board of Trustees) at Lench's Trust, an almshouse charity dating from 1525. I also co-founded GrowingBirmingham.org to promote and celebrate urban food growing.