AboutTristan Claridge, FRSA

Tristan Claridge is a globally recognised expert on social capital, with over two decades of experience advancing theory, practice, and policy in the field. He is the Founding President of the International Social Capital Association (ISCA), Director of the Institute for Social Capital, a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts (RSA), and a Visiting Associate Professor at Heriot-Watt University.

Tristan’s work focuses on developing a deeper, more precise understanding of social capital as a critical resource for individuals, organisations, and societies. His work bridges rigorous academic inquiry and practical implementation, offering innovative perspectives on how social capital influences individual and collective outcomes. His research focuses on capital-theoretic conceptions of social capital and the mechanisms by which it is formed, maintained, and eroded — with a particular interest in how people perceive, interpret, and act upon their social connections.

Social capital is increasingly recognised as a vital factor in addressing today’s most pressing challenges, from public health and economic development to climate adaptation, disaster resilience, and democratic participation. Yet despite its significance, the field has historically been fragmented and underdeveloped. Tristan has taken a leading role in building the field of social capital, working to unify researchers, practitioners, and policymakers around a coherent conceptual foundation and a shared agenda for progress.

A sought-after speaker, educator and researcher, Tristan has delivered keynote addresses, lectures, and training sessions worldwide. He regularly collaborates with other researchers, practitioners, and policymakers on projects that address complex social challenges, from community resilience to organisational development.

Whether working with governments, NGOs, or universities, Tristan is committed to building the field of social capital and fostering collaboration among those striving to create more connected, resilient, and equitable societies.

My History

May 2022

Launched ISCA and rebranded Social Capital Research & Training

The new international association was officially launched and my existing business that supported the informal group was rebranded to the Institute for Social Capital to avoid any confusion between the new association and my ongoing consulting and training business.

Dec 2021

Established the International Social Capital Association

The informal social capital research group was formalized to form the new International Social Capital Association (ISCA). I was elected the first President of the association.

Mar 2021

Established Social Capital Committee

With increasing interest in the Facebook group and the webinar series we established a committee to help organise group activities.

Apr 2020

Started Webinar Series on Social Capital

When the COVID-19 pandemic started I was aware that many researchers may be isolated so offered a series of free Q&A sessions on social capital. This quickly turned into a regular webinar series with presentations by invited speakers.

Jun 2018

Presentations on Social Capital

With increasing recognition of my work on social capital I have been asked to give presentations to various groups, organisations, and conferences.

Jan 2017

Created Resources on Social Capital

In 2017 I re-engaged with the literature on social capital with the goal of creating more resources for people who use the concept in research and practical applications. This work has continued to this day.

Aug 2015

Established the Social Capital Facebook Group

Responding to the growing interest in social capital and the number of questions I was receiving by email I established a Facebook group to encourage collaboration and cooperation between people interested in the concept.

Jan 2013

Consulting on Social Capital

I increasingly was asked to help organisations with social capital related projects and started to provide consulting and training services.

July 2012

Established Eviport

From my event management work I developed a business plan for a new business to live stream events and started this business with fellow event professionals. My role included business planning, capital raising, and the development of a live streaming portal.

July 2009

Public presentations

I regularly presented at public events and conferences on topics related to environmental management and sustainability including at World Environment Day festivals and Youth Environment Conferences.

Feb 2007

Completed Foundations of University Research

I completed a program run by the University of the Sunshine Coast that provided a background on higher education research and practical skills in research planning, funding, and execution within the university environment.

Feb 2006

Completed Foundations of University Teaching

I completed a program on the foundations of university teaching provided by the University of the Sunshine Coast which focused on improving teaching practice and the scholarship of teaching.

Dec 2005

Founded Social Capital Research

Following the online publication of my work on social capital I have assisted in research planning for people all around the world who are working on social capital research. My online publications on social capital and related concepts receives 250,000+ visits per year and continues to be a highly regarded resource on social capital theory.

April 2005

Completed Certificate IV in Business

I completed a certificate IV in business (small business management) with a focus on business planning and management.

Sept 2004

University Sessional Lecturer

For 10 years between 2004 and 2014 I taught in a variety of roles at the University of the Sunshine Coast in subject areas such as environmental science, planning, sustainability, ethics, and cultural studies.

June 2004

Graduated Master of Natural Resource Studies – University of Queensland

Graduated masters degree with major research project on the role of social capital in natural resource management. Coursework included environmental management and planning, social impact assessment and social planning for development.

Jan 2003

Event Organiser

During my undergraduate and postgraduate studies I worked in event management roles for the university and private companies. Events included conferences, training courses, and product launches.

June 2002

Graduated Bachelor of Arts – University of Queensland

Graduated bachelors degree with a double major in Geographical Sciences with a strong focus on physical geography and human geography, including biogeography, climatology, hydrology, GIS, remote sensing, environmental management and planning.

Other Interests and Work

Coaching

I enjoy helping people and I love to see people improving their skills. I have coached people in business and research, and in sports such as snooker and touch football.

Volunteering

I have strong environmental values and I like to volunteer my time or services when I can. I have assisted many community groups over the past 20 years and it continues to be an important part of life.

Cycling & Fitness

I like to get out on my bike and explore the local area and it’s a great way to keep fit. I race sometimes but mostly I enjoy social rides on weekends with friends. I generally ride several times a week all year round.

Family

My family is a very important part of my life and working from home has given me lots of time with my family. I am married with two high school age children: Charlie and Asha.

get in touch

email me at tristan@socialcapitalresearch.com