Alex's Story

Alexander Gunkel is the Founder and Managing Director of Space4Good, a social enterprise that uses space technology (satellite earth observation data) for social and environmental benefits. Alexander joined the Sky Blue programme to develop a cohesive company culture, connect with environmental leaders, and explore collaboration opportunities.

The Sky Blue programme influenced Alexander's leadership journey in three key areas: embracing cultural intelligence to understand and value diverse perspectives, building a culture of leadership within his organization to empower others, and expanding networks to foster collaboration and extend Space4Good's impact. These insights have been pivotal in strengthening both his leadership and the organization's mission.

Embracing Cultural Intelligence

Growing up in a very academic household and having studied engineering, Alexander’s life was defined by IQ. Through the Cultural Intelligence (CQ) framework, he developed a sensitivity for the different types of “intelligences”.

“I was focused on developing hard skills but not really looking into soft skills or behaviours. Unconsciously, I had been developing my EQ and CQ through exposure to international environments and by operating across boundaries. Through Sky Blue, these learnings have been validated as a strength that can be leveraged. It helped me uncover things I already knew and put them into a positive light.”

For Alexander, CQ means “questioning your assumptions and the assumptions of those you’re talking to, proactively seeking to understand others’ perspectives and feelings”.

Building on his newfound appreciation for cultural intelligence, Alexander also discovered the importance of nurturing leadership within his organization.

Building a culture of leadership

Alexander’s growth highlights the importance of fostering a culture where multiple leaders thrive to expand the impact of Space4Good's mission.

"Some leadership styles are more suitable for different phases in a company's development. In the startup phase, there's a lot of support needed from within and from the front. Later, particularly for founders, leadership is about creating other leaders within the organization. There was a shift in mindset—realizing I don't have to be the only leader at Space4Good."

Alexander acknowledges his role in fostering new leaders, knowing they can impact the broader ecosystem even if they move on and start working in other organisations.

In addition to fostering internal leadership, Alexander leveraged the programme to expand his professional network.

Growing new networks

The Sky Blue programme provides leaders with the connections and peer support needed to collaborate effectively on a broader scale, crucial for delivering solutions for people and nature. This was a key motivation for Alexander’s participation. 

“The programme is very special in how it creates strong connections in the shortest amount of time. Before the programme even starts you feel connected to the other participants. Then you realise how, even if somebody is from a completely different country, role or organisation, you still encounter very similar challenges.”

His introduction to Leading Beyond Authority also shifted his perception of potential collaborators.

“The concept of Leading Beyond Authority, just as a beautifully framed idea, really stuck with me. It created a new respect and acknowledgment for all the leaders who maybe aren't covered in newspapers or widely spoken about but face more obstacles than those who have power.”

This newfound appreciation drove him to seek connections with a diverse range of leaders and organization. These new connections soon led to collaborative opportunities, further expanding Space4Good’s impact.

Creating collaborative opportunities

Exposure to “on the ground” leaders was crucial for Alexander to better understand their challenges and effectively carry out Space4Good’s mission.

“I got a glimpse into their day-to-day. I got to hear directly from leaders working in conservation agencies which now helps me speak their language, making it easier to establish personal connections.”

One significant project has emerged from Alexander’s new network. During the programme, he met Gabriel Schwaderer, Executive Director at EuroNatur. As they got to know each other, Gabriel introduced Alexander to two colleagues to explore collaborative opportunities. It’s now been two years since their organizations, along with local partners, have joined forces to locate and protect the last remaining wild forests in the Western Balkans to better protect them.

Alexander's journey through Sky Blue has been transformative for both himself and Space4Good. Embracing diverse leadership styles and fostering new connections, he has strengthened his organization and expanded its impact. With a renewed appreciation for cultural intelligence and collaboration, Alexander drives Space4Good forward, confident that nurturing new leaders today will create a better tomorrow. His story illustrates the lasting benefits of investing in leadership development and the possibilities that arise from shared purpose and collaboration.

Alexander Gunkel is the Founder and Managing Director of Space4Good.
He took part in the Sky Blue programme in 2020.