“Lead the change” is a leadership programme aimed at creating a network of experts in the field of leadership, adaptation to climate change and sustainable land use in the countries of Central Asia. The first of three leadership training sessionssupported by the SLU-CA programme involved 20 representatives of governmental and non-governmental organizations from various sectors in Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan. They came together to study the interrelation of climate change, land use and sustainable development for four days. With the help of experienced international trainers, they analysed their own leadership and management skills, developed innovative thinking and discussed possibilities for deeper exchanges of knowledge. The participants will apply the skills they acquired in their government positions over the coming months before gathering for the next leadership training.