Group photo in front of the LEAG floating solar power plant on Lake Cottbus.
Together with 30 other leaders from across Brandenburg, The Future Living co-founder Charlotte Francke embarked on a journey through the region. The itinerary included visits to the Brandenburg an der Havel prison, the Office for the Protection of the Constitution, Gut Neu Sacro, the floating solar installation by LEAG, and many more.
Over the course of eight intensive program days, the focus was on dialogue, refining personal leadership approaches, and exploring how Brandenburg can be shaped into a livable and sustainable region.
Charlotte, what did the Leadership Journey give you – and what did you give back to it?
Charlotte Francke: I certainly brought an unusual perspective. I founded a “classic” business but with the clear goal of creating value for society and for the people working within the company. We don’t fit into the often rigid boundaries of the three sectors – social, economic, and administrative – which are sometimes even seen as being in opposition to one another. What we’re doing successfully represents an entirely new way of thinking about business and business interests – one that invites us to question the status quo. The idea that more public good can be created through synergy and joint strategy across sectors doesn’t come naturally to everyone – but for me, it’s self-evident.
Brandenburg is facing diverse challenges – along with rare opportunities and huge potential for positive change. These are often accompanied by friction and differing ideas about what the future should look like. I learned a lot about who plays what role in these discussions and in steering transformation. I now better understand who influences which levers – and why.
What made a lasting impression was experiencing the same key topics from very different angles. The chance to ask the same questions about a place’s social, economic, and political development to its mayor, residents, local businesses, social service providers, ministry representatives – and even the Office for the Protection of the Constitution – is something you rarely find outside such a leadership setting.
Were there any encounters that stuck with you?
Charlotte Francke: Many. I was especially impressed by people who stand up for democracy and society – sometimes at personal risk. Whether in the Brandenburg prison, the constitutional protection agency, or in youth outreach in Angermünde – these people left a mark.
At the same time, businesses – from family farms to energy providers – are undergoing enormous change, though society perceives this in very different ways. It was eye-opening to see how these politically charged transitions are being handled – or, in some cases, not handled.
The mutual respect and exchange among the participants was also incredibly important. We engaged in genuine dialogue, gave each other thoughtful feedback, and explored a wide range of topics together. One moment that stood out was when a participant addressed my reaction during a discussion on gender roles – her feedback was welcome and offered a valuable opportunity for personal reflection. That direct, personal exchange of views – and learning from people with completely different life experiences – was truly invaluable for me.
Did the experience change your own definition of leadership?
Charlotte Francke: It reaffirmed my belief that leadership can be understood in many different ways. What resonates most with me is when individuals lead with authenticity and in service of the common good. That takes skill, openness, conviction – and, in many cases, a great deal of courage. Meeting so many inspiring people strengthened this conviction and will continue to inspire me to act even more boldly in the future.
I also came to appreciate even more deeply that change and development must be seen as continuous, natural processes. As a founder, change is part of my everyday reality. But this journey reminded me that in many places, change only happens when it becomes absolutely necessary – and by then, it’s hard to bring everyone along.
Especially in the context of structural transformation, it becomes clear how much potential is lost when people are left behind. That’s why I believe it’s crucial for leaders to foster cultures and structures that promote participation, agency, and a sense of security – so that change becomes something people can engage with positively and sustainably.
Is there a question that you’re taking with you from this experience?
Charlotte Francke: Although my work often stretches beyond Brandenburg – and even beyond Germany and Europe – my personal commitment to our “founding homeland” remains strong, just as it does for The Future Living. Brandenburg is a place of contrasts: it holds immense potential and many opportunities to actively shape its future. And yet, on some days, the challenges can be overwhelming – you wonder: Where do we go from here? Can we truly make the most of this unique moment in time? What will the future look like?
I don’t have a definitive answer. But I remain hopeful. One thing is certain: Brandenburg is full of inspiring, hard-working, innovative, and courageous people who want to make a difference. How could you not be part of that?
So… would you hire someone with a criminal record?
Charlotte Francke: Yes, I would. My approach is “no stigma”. In fact, in my field, a police clearance certificate isn’t even required. I think it would be useful to be aware of such a background – especially if it comes with specific needs. That way, I could offer more targeted support as part of my leadership responsibility.
*Goals and (expected) outcomes of the program:
Leadership figures from Brandenburg’s public administration, private sector, and nonprofit/social sectors embark together on a leadership learning journey – exploring leadership realities and challenges across the region.
The program is funded by the European Union and the State of Brandenburg and aims to provide advanced training and field experiences for current and future leaders under the initiative: “Leadership Training and Excursion for Executives in Brandenburg.”
