Original article here
Author: BetterUp
AUSTIN, Texas–(BUSINESS WIRE)–BetterUp®, the human transformation company, today announces the renewal of its partnership with the Invictus Games Foundation, reaffirming its commitment to supporting the mental fitness and recovery of the global Invictus Community which is comprised of veterans and service personnel living with life-altering injuries or illnesses.
As an Official Partner of the Invictus Games Foundation, BetterUp will continue to offer no cost access to its proprietary human transformation platform—providing personalized 1:1 coaching, science-driven assessments, expert-led group sessions, and an AI-powered digital support network designed to promote resilience, purpose, and growth. Members will also have access to BetterUp’s newest AI coaching technology, BetterUp Grow™.
“I have been working with BetterUp for several weeks now,” said We Are Invictus community member Andy Perrin. “The process to start was incredibly easy and selecting a coach was simple. I chose mine because of his experience with the military and his use of CBT in the coaching process. The success of the program can be judged by how I feel when the calls with my coach finish. I feel a weight lifted from my shoulders and a general sense of progress towards my goals. It is a great program and I look forward to continuing my journey with BetterUp.”
Through the Invictus Games Foundation’s free We Are Invictus platform, eligible members of the community will receive this support from BetterUp at no cost starting immediately. In previous years, veterans who engaged with BetterUp saw meaningful improvement in key indicators of wellbeing and performance, including:
- 52% increase in Goal Attainment
- 47% increase in Resilience
- 40% increase in Self-Awareness
- 37% increase in Optimism
- 33% increase in Emotional Thriving
- 17% increase in Stress Management
“Renewing this partnership isn’t just about providing access—it’s about backing the mental fitness and resilience of the Invictus community in a real, tangible way. We’ve already seen the impact—measurable improvements in wellbeing that show how transformative this kind of support can be. The Invictus community leads by example every day, and this partnership helps make sure they have the resources they need to keep moving forward,” said Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, Chief Impact Officer at BetterUp, and Founder of the Invictus Games Foundation.
This renewed partnership reflects BetterUp’s ongoing commitment to Pledge 1%, a global movement encouraging companies to give back through product, time, profit, and equity. BetterUp continues to champion the veteran community by employing veterans and military spouses, supporting career transitions, and helping organizations unlock the full potential of former service members in their workforce.
To learn more about the Invictus Games Foundation and its partnership with BetterUp, visit www.invictusgamesfoundation.org.
About Invictus Games Foundation
The Invictus Games Foundation is the charity behind the Invictus Games supporting the recovery and rehabilitation of international wounded, injured and sick service personnel and veterans through sports. Founded in 2014, post the inaugural Invictus Games London 2014, the Foundation oversees the delivery of the Invictus Games as well as supports its international community with opportunities to use sports, esports and adventurous challenges to change lives and save lives. The Duke of Sussex is Founder of the Invictus Games Foundation.
We Are Invictus is an online platform and mobile application built for and by the Invictus Community in order to provide a digital community with continued access to opportunities for recovery and rehabilitation. This closed network is found at www.weareinvictus.co.uk or via app stores.
The Invictus Games have so far taken place in London 2014, Orlando 2016, Toronto 2017, Sydney 2018, The Hague 2020, Dusseldorf 2023, and Vancouver Whistler 2025. The next Invictus Games will take place in Birmingham 2027, with candidate cities for 2029 announced on June 16th 2025.
More information from www.invictusgamesfoundation.org
About BetterUp
Founded in 2013, BetterUp® is the human transformation company driving peak performance in individuals and organizations through unparalleled access to coaching, content and AI. BetterUp is the inventor of virtual coaching and the largest mental health and coaching startup in the world, with the world’s largest network of over 4,000 Coaches offering support in 75 languages across over 70 countries. Trusted by more than 750 organizations including Google, Salesforce, Hilton, and other leading Fortune 1,000 companies, BetterUp delivers on key impact areas – transformational leadership, resilience and readiness as well as manager effectiveness – all with the vision to inspire people everywhere to live with greater clarity, purpose, and passion. BetterUp’s Science Board is composed of leading researchers and luminaries in the fields of positive psychology and human performance including Martin Seligman, Shawn Achor, Quinetta Roberson and Adam Grant. BetterUp is a member of the global Pledge 1% movement, and is committed to donating 1% of its staff time, product, profit and equity to make a positive impact on the community. BetterUp is a Workday Design Badge recipient and has been recognized in the Inc. 5000, Fortune’s Great Places to Work, PEOPLE Magazine’s Companies that Care, and Fast Company’s Best Workplaces for Innovators. To learn more, visit www.betterup.com.
Original article here
Author: Pinterest
At Pinterest, our mission is to bring everyone the inspiration to create a life they love—and that includes fostering spaces where young people feel connected, supported and cared for. Over the past year, Pinterest has been leading a groundbreaking collective initiative called the Hidden Healing Fund, focused on uplifting cultural healing practices that center the mental health and wellbeing of youth.
Reimagining healing for young people
For many young people, especially in marginalized communities, traditional pathways to mental health support remain too often out of reach—whether it’s long wait times, difficulty finding culturally competent care, negative experiences or high costs. The Hidden Healing Fund exists to bridge these gaps by celebrating and supporting “hidden healing” practices: art, music, movement, rituals, nature and other practices rooted in community, connection and culture.
“Hidden healing” isn’t a new concept—it’s an acknowledgment that communities have long drawn on their own traditions as vital sources of strength and restoration. These practices offer innovative ways to foster belonging, resilience and hope, especially for young people navigating today’s complex world.
A collective model for change
Pinterest is honored to stand alongside SHOWTIME/MTV Entertainment Studios, lululemon and The Starbucks Foundation in steering the Hidden Healing Fund. Importantly, two community and youth-led organizations, Culture Therapy and Hidden Healers, are informing and stewarding the fund. Together, through collective dialogue, learning and decision-making among corporate brands, community partners and young people, Pinterest is proud to support this shared commitment to championing culturally-led approaches to youth wellbeing.
In a recent milestone, the Hidden Healing Fund awarded $1.1 million in grants to community organizations using their methods to support the wellbeing of young people in the US & UK. This significant investment enables grassroots groups to expand their reach and deepen the impact of their culturally-grounded mental health programming.
The Hidden Healing Fund is inspired by MTV’s “Hidden Healers” campaign, a first-of-its-kind digital video series that showcases the many pathways to healing that exist outside of traditional therapy rooms. By spotlighting different communities’ worlds of care—from drum circles to ancestral rituals to expressive arts—these stories illustrate the power of community-based healing.
Building a more accessible future
As a brand, we know inspiration begins when everyone feels seen and supported. The Hidden Healing Fund is a natural extension of Pinterest’s ongoing efforts to increase accessibility to mental health resources and innovative models of care. We’re inspired by the creativity of our communities and believe that healing should never be a privilege, but a possibility for everyone.
Brands and organizations committed to improving youth mental health are invited to join in, combining resources and expertise to champion new solutions for the next generation. The Hidden Healing Fund is just the beginning of what’s possible when we come together to reimagine how care, connection and culture can drive healing forward.
Original article here
Author: PagerDuty
At PagerDuty, we demonstrate our global impact through sustainable practices, inclusive policies, and responsible operations. I’m proud to share our FY25 Impact Report, which highlights the meaningful progress we’ve made during the past year in service of our employees, customers, communities, and the planet.
Our purpose – empowering teams with the time and efficiency to build the future—guides every facet of our business. Through the power of our AI-powered PagerDuty Operations Cloud, we’re helping mission-driven organizations respond faster, work smarter, and stretch limited resources further, so they can focus on what matters most: their mission.
Powering Positive Change Through Technology
In FY25, 585 impact customers—nonprofits, healthcare providers, educational institutions, and B Corps—relied on PagerDuty to scale their reach and improve their operational resilience. This cohort grew 22% over the previous year.
From crisis helplines and food banks to organizations working on climate tech and renewable energy, our customers are using the Operations Cloud to respond to life-saving calls faster, manage systems more effectively, and increase their capacity for good. We supported these organizations with $2.2 million in product discounts and donations and pro bono services from our employee volunteers, earning a 90 Net Promoter Score (NPS) from our partners and grantees.
Our Impact Pricing and Technical Pro Bono programs are making it easier for mission-critical teams to adopt enterprise-grade solutions. We’re not just delivering software—we’re delivering time, efficiency, and trust when it matters most.
Our People, Driving Impact
One of the most inspiring aspects of my job is witnessing the commitment of PagerDuty employees to giving back. In FY25, 83% of our employees volunteered or donated to causes they care about. Through our Employee Impact program—which includes 20 hours of paid volunteer time off and 1:1 donation matching—they contributed over 9,000 hours of service and generated $123,800 in matched donations.
From mentoring youth to supporting mental health, climate action, and food security, our teams leaned into our values and showed up as changemakers in the communities we serve.
Investing in a More Sustainable Future
This year, we deepened our commitment to climate responsibility. Our climate targets were officially validated by the Science Based Targets initiative, and we achieved 100% renewable electricity sourcing ahead of schedule. We’ve also reduced our Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 90%, demonstrating that sustainable operations are not only possible—they’re achievable.
At the same time, we expanded our philanthropic investments, deploying $1.27 million through our Impact Fund to support crisis response, healthcare access, food security, and climate resilience. We also hosted our first-ever Impact Accelerator gathering, where grantees came together to share insights, explore new use cases, and deepen connections.
A Culture of Accountability and Integrity
Underpinning all of our efforts is a strong governance model designed to align our business with our values. From data privacy and ethics to employee development and responsible business practices, our Global Impact program is a company-wide effort supported by our Board, executive sponsors, and passionate internal advocates.
We continue to lead with purpose, build trust with our stakeholders, and scale impact through thoughtful collaboration.
Looking Ahead
Every milestone in this year’s report reflects the values of our people, customers, and partners who believe in doing business the right way—with compassion, responsibility, and a long-term perspective.
As we look to the future, our goal is simple: to transform critical work so all teams—especially those doing mission-driven work—can deliver on their promises, delight their stakeholders, and build a better world.
I invite you to read the full FY25 Impact Report and visit our Impact Hub to see the stories, data, and partnerships behind this year’s progress. Thank you for being part of the journey.
With gratitude,
Debbie O’Brien
Chief Communications Officer and VP of Global Impact, PagerDuty
Author: Ripple
Original article here
The 2024 Ripple Impact Report marks our commitment to leveraging blockchain to drive meaningful change and foster economic mobility around the globe. In 2024, we launched bolder partnerships, funded more innovative solutions and empowered our employees to make a bigger difference.
This report highlights our most impactful moments, illustrating how we’re using technology to connect communities and unlock potential on a global scale. We’re proud to deploy our people, products, and resources to accelerate financial inclusion, broaden blockchain and crypto research, and give back locally.
Impact by the Numbers
$200M+ donated since 2018
$21M in grants distributed in 2024
95% of carbon removals secured to achieve net zero by 2030
60 global university partners
1,500+ blockchain research papers and technical projects funded
80% employee participation in giving and volunteering programs
Impact Finance
Expanding financial services globally remained a priority for Ripple Impact in 2024 with new pilots and solutions built on XRP Ledger and leveraging the Ripple USD (RLUSD) stablecoin. We launched the Unlocking Opportunity initiative with Mercy Corps Ventures, a new humanitarian aid partnership with the International Rescue Committee and funded critical research with the Lab for Inclusive Fintech at UC Berkeley.
Blockchain Research and Innovation
Ripple’s University Blockchain Research Initiative (UBRI) continued to expand its global network, now supporting 60 leading universities worldwide. In 2024, UBRI welcomed four new partners and distributed $5.7M in funding.
Sustainability and Carbon Markets
Ripple made continued progress toward achieving net zero as a company by or before 2030 and invested in proven nature-based carbon removal methodologies.
Employee Impact
In 2024, Ripple employees made a greater impact than ever, with 80% participating in volunteering and giving programs. From mentoring job seekers in New York to packing reclaimed food in London and supporting young students in Bangalore, employees found meaningful ways to give back.
Global Philanthropy
Ripple provided funding to over 70 universities and nonprofits last year. We joined the Pledge 1% movement and when disasters struck, Ripple provided XRP and cash donations to relief organizations like World Central Kitchen. In 2024, we gave $21M in grants, totaling over $200M in donations since 2018.
We are grateful to our partners and employees who made all of the progress and milestones in our 2024 Ripple Impact Report possible. We remain committed to leveraging our technology, resources, and network to create lasting, meaningful change.
Read the full Ripple Impact Report to learn more.
Author: Toast
Original article here
BOSTON—Toast (NYSE: TOST), the all-in-one technology platform built for restaurants, today announced a $5 million philanthropic commitment over the next five years to address global food insecurity. The initiative will kick off with a U.S. partnership with No Kid Hungry, a national campaign from Share Our Strength aimed at fighting childhood hunger. Toast plans to amplify these efforts by encouraging its customers and their guests to participate via Toast Fundraising1 campaigns to support the cause, and is launching a new Toast.org grant program to scale the impact of restaurants engaged in local anti-hunger relief efforts across the U.S., along with other philanthropic partnerships and employee volunteering opportunities.
“Toast is committed to enriching the food experience for all. The negative impacts of hunger and food insecurity are profound, and we can make meaningful change when the right resources come together. At Toast, we’re uniquely positioned to mobilize the entire restaurant ecosystem—our customers, our employees, our technology, and our charitable efforts—to make a tangible difference in this critical area,” said Toast CEO and Co-Founder Aman Narang. “I’m proud to commit Toast to engage more deeply in the fight against hunger, starting with our partnership with No Kid Hungry and helping to end childhood hunger.”
Food insecurity is a year-round issue, however, the summer months represent a particularly vulnerable time of year for the millions of children who rely on school meals for their daily nutritional needs. Only 13% of children receiving free or reduced-price meals during the school year have access to them during the summer.
To combat this, No Kid Hungry established the CEO Pledge to End Summer Hunger, aiming to increase the number of children receiving summertime meals from 2.8 million to 31 million nationwide annually. As part of Toast’s commitment to addressing the critical issue of summer hunger, Narang signed the CEO Pledge, joining other leaders from across industries in raising funds and awareness.
“Today, 1 in 5 kids in America live with hunger. Parents and caregivers face financial hardships that force them to choose between buying groceries or paying their bills,” said Billy Shore, Co-Founder and Executive Chair of No Kid Hungry. “Our research shows that families struggle even more during the summer. We, along with partners like Toast and the chefs and restaurants they support, are united by a common goal: feeding people in summer and all year long. We are so grateful for Toast’s efforts and look forward to the continued partnership.”
Beyond the CEO Pledge and existing initiatives, Toast will engage its people, products, philanthropy, customers, and the broader restaurant community in its hunger relief efforts, including:
- A $250,000 grant to help No Kid Hungry will support the implementation of state policies and programs designed to close the summer hunger gap.
- From June through August, every new customer referral will generate a donation from Toast to No Kid Hungry.
- In July, Toast.org will match guest donations to No Kid Hungry campaigns set up through Toast Fundraising, up to $50,000.
- Toast employees will volunteer at summer meal sites and Toast offices to help ensure every child has access to three healthy meals per day when school is out.
These new initiatives build on Toast’s track record of philanthropy and commitment to fighting food insecurity, including recent product enhancements enabling Toast merchants to accept SNAP/EBT payments directly on Toast devices via a partnership with Forage. Toast Fundraising, which launched in 2023, has already helped Toast customers make a difference in this space alongside their communities. In 2024 Diesel Cafe Group in Somerville, MA was able to raise over $30,000 for Community Cooks.
“It’s definitely made our ability to give back easier and made the impact larger,” said Jennifer Park, Founder and Owner of Diesel Cafe. “The fact that we can garner our community and our guests to give back as much as we do is huge.”
To learn more about No Kid Hungry, visit its website.
To learn more about Toast.org, visit its website.
1 Toast Fundraising is not currently available to California-based restaurants as we work on product updates.
About Toast
Toast [NYSE: TOST] is a cloud-based, all-in-one digital technology platform purpose-built for the entire restaurant community. Toast provides a comprehensive platform of software as a service (SaaS) products and financial technology solutions that give restaurants everything they need to run their business across point of sale, payments, operations, digital ordering and delivery, marketing and loyalty, and team management. We serve as the restaurant operating system, connecting front of house and back of house operations across service models including dine-in, takeout, delivery, catering, and retail. Toast helps restaurants streamline operations, increase revenue, and deliver amazing guest experiences. For more information, visit www.toasttab.com.
Author: Reia
For our debut at RHS Chelsea Flower Show, we wanted to go beyond showcasing our products – and also use the platform to give back. As part of our Pledge 1% commitment, we partnered with We Are Grow, a community-led agroecological farm in North London.
Grow works with students from The Totteridge Academy, offering hands-on outdoor learning that nurtures connection to nature, food systems, and mental wellbeing. Through their programmes, they engage children, young people, and families who face barriers to education, wellbeing, and employment – using regenerative farming, nature-based education, and community workshops to build resilience and connection.
To support their incredible work, we donated 5% of all sales made at the Chelsea Flower Show to Grow. We’re also donating our plants from our stand to their site – some will find a new home in the Apiary Garden, others will be added to their agroforestry strips – ensuring the spirit of the garden lives on long after the gates have closed.
Our stand was designed in collaboration with garden designer Lottie Delamain, who helped translate the aromatherapeutic qualities of our three scents – SILVA, VERDE and FEN – into a layered, sensory planting scheme. Through soft herbs, textured foliage and thoughtful composition, the space brought our nature-led ethos to life.
At Reia, our mission is simple: to make it easier for people to care for themselves and the planet, without compromise. Supporting organisations like Grow is one of the ways we’re bringing that mission into action through Pledge 1%.
Alicia Nogales
President, Santu Beauty
Troncones, Mexico and San Francisco, CA
Pledge 1% is celebrating its 10th Anniversary this year. What can companies do (or do more of) to have a positive social impact in the next 10 years?
Two things. I believe that companies should actively encourage their corporate families of people to love themselves as much as possible. Think of a parent who wants their own child to love and care for their own self as much as they love them. Love, unlike money, is a well spring available to all of us that never runs dry. That is amazing. Companies should want to create environments that genuinely care for and support their employees’ well-being. This is critical to the overall health of a company. Companies are made up of people who spend a great part of their lives working in their “house”. Why would we not want to have the healthiest and happiest home.
And the second part to a happy home is committing some of their financial success to a principle or purpose that is for the greatest good. I want to work for a company that is actively participating in making the world a better place. This has been a principle tenet of SANTU. And for companies that are financially successful I would be asking them the following. Give “X” what you wish you could do.
What’s the legacy you hope to leave for future generations?
I have three sons of this future generation. This is very much top of mind. My parents exemplified and taught me the importance of being of service whether it is one’s vocation or not. “For the greater Good” is always my north star. My mother retired as elementary Principal and devoted her life to education with an emphasis on teaching teachers and working with underrepresented populations. My father is Mexican American from a family of migrant workers. He was the “first” to do a lot of amazing things and had a successful career and also was instrumental in Mexican American civil rights.
I was fortunate enough to have the choice to spend time at home working as an active, “stay at home” parent. It was an honor. I’d grown up from a very young age volunteering in all kinds of ways and became a “professional” in adulthood where the goals for those task forces and organizations seemed to many as impossible or too hard. Whether its saving the trees, animals, people…whatever…whatever resonates with your higher self and that of the greater good, spend time on it. We would have a healthier and happier world if every person made consistent effort to think and do outside of one’s personal benefit.
If you could choose one word to define your leadership style, what would it be and why?
Collaborative. I work well in a team structure. I believe a strong leader entrusts a diversified group of people who have distinct strengths. No one person knows everything. A successful team thrives when each team member is encouraged to bring their talents and skillsets to the project(s) on hand and valued for their respective contributions and work as individuals and part of the group’s team effort.
If you could give one piece of advice to the next generation of women leaders, what would it be?
Always go for the adventure. You have to trust that where you are is exactly where you are supposed to be. Move from the heart and trust that there are no two life journeys that are the same. Accept you are the creator of your own path and it rarely is a straight line. And if you are at point A or F, you don’t need to know point X, Y, and Z. The real acceptance of this “not knowing” everything is truly liberating when you consistently practice moving from the heart because your human self will be guided to make clear and effective decisions over and over again. And find the joy in floating whether you are in calm or turbulent waters.
The real acceptance of this “not knowing” everything is truly liberating when you consistently practice moving from the heart because your human self will be guided to make clear and effective decisions over and over again.
Looking ahead, what are you most excited about—whether in your professional journey or personal life?
The past is history. The future is a mystery. Today is a present. That’s why it’s called a present. – Eleanor Roosevelt
And a wise woman with feet in the sand, walking thru warm ocean water at sunlight reminded me of this.
Enisa
CEO, Emthrone
North Macedonia & Turkey
Pledge 1% is celebrating its 10th Anniversary this year. What can companies do (or do more of) to have a positive social impact in the next 10 years?
The business is owned and operated under the leadership of Enisa Kadrii. She has relevant years of experience in the industry. She is the CEO of some other companies but has decided to launch her face line brand. Enisa will be saddled with the responsibility of making executive and administrative decisions as regards the operations and functionality of the company.
Enisa Kadri is very creative, forward-thinking, and a robust and hands-on team leader, highly efficient, and results-oriented with exceptional management and organizational skills. She also has exceptional interpersonal skills combined with a proven ability to drive profitability, manage and nurture talent, deliver sales growth, form strategic partnerships, and successfully implement challenging projects. She is an expert in executing team-driven process improvements to increase revenue growth, operational efficiency, and excellent stewardship of revenue. She also has a strong customer service orientation to work effectively with employees, professionals, and partners. She will be actively involved in the business operation producing and selling our beauty products and employ more hands as required.
What’s the legacy you hope to leave for future generations?
A environment aware brand.
If you could choose one word to define your leadership style, what would it be and why?
Enisa Kadrii is a remarkable and powerful lady in Macedonia, reigning as the queen of the consulting business and a leading force in the cosmetics industry. With her keen business acumen and innovative spirit, she has not only built a successful empire but has also inspired countless individuals along the way.
What sets Enisa apart is her ability to connect with people on a personal level. With simplicity and authenticity, she has won the hearts of many, proving that true leadership is not just about authority but also about empathy and understanding. Her approachable nature and genuine care for others have fostered a loyal community of supporters who admire her vision and dedication.
As a business lady, Enisa embodies strength and resilience, navigating the challenges of the industry with grace and determination. Her journey is a testament to the power of passion and hard work, making her a true role model for aspiring entrepreneurs everywhere. Enisa Kadrii is not just a name; she is a symbol of empowerment and success in Macedonia.
If you could give one piece of advice to the next generation of women leaders, what would it be?
Trust yourself. Stand up straight with your shoulders back.
Looking ahead, what are you most excited about—whether in your professional journey or personal life?
The key is balance between professional and personal life too.
Trust yourself. Stand up straight with your shoulders back.
MAY 7, 2025 – SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – Pledge 1% today announced that co-founder Scott Farquhar will step into the role of Board Chair, marking an exciting new chapter for the global movement that inspires, educates, and empowers every company to leverage their unique assets for good. The announcement was made in Sydney at an event attended by more than 100 people from across the startup and technology ecosystem who support Pledge 1%’s mission to help companies deliver social impact as part of their business model.
Since Pledge 1% started in 2015, over 19,000 companies in more than 130 countries have joined the Pledge 1% movement by committing to set aside 1% of equity, profit, product, and/or employee time to drive social impact.
“Pledge 1% is designed to accelerate impact,” said Scott Farquhar, co-founder of Atlassian and incoming Board Chair of Pledge 1%. “We envision a future where profit is intertwined with purpose, and where social impact isn’t the exception, but the norm. That’s the new blueprint for business success.”
“And we’re not doing it alone,” Farquhar added. “Over the last decade, we’ve built a powerful network of CEOs, social impact leaders, investors, banks, stock exchanges, and other business stakeholders who believe in the power of business for good. Together, we’re inspiring and supporting the next generation of companies to embed giving back into their DNA from day one.”
“I’m honoured to take on this role and help grow the movement both in Australia and around the world,” Mr. Farquhar said.
Cliff Obrecht, co-founder and COO, Canva said of the company’s involvement, “Pledge 1% is a force multiplier. What started as a simple idea has become a global framework for impact. We’ve proven that you don’t have to wait to be successful to start giving – you can build it into your organisation from day one.”
Amy Lesnick, CEO of Pledge 1%, credited Farquhar’s vision with helping to shape the organisation’s global impact and is excited to celebrate this milestone by welcoming more companies and founders to the movement. “Ten years ago, Scott helped spark a movement that transformed how businesses do good,” said Lesnick. “With Scott stepping in as Board Chair, we are doubling down on our mission to equip and empower companies across ecosystems, industries, and borders to unlock even greater impact in the decade ahead.”
Key Achievements of the Pledge 1% Movement:
- 19,000+ companies participating globally
- 1,800+ Australian companies including Atlassian, Canva, and Culture Amp
- US$3 Billion in equity pledged to social causes
- 60+ unicorn companies have set aside equity for impact
Farquhar’s appointment comes as Pledge 1% launches a year-long celebration of its 10th Anniversary. This week, the team is hosting a series of events and gatherings across Australia, bringing together founders, investors, accelerators, banks, and ecosystem leaders to champion the future of business-led impact.
As companies worldwide face increasing uncertainty from climate change to economic pressures, Pledge 1% provides a trusted, actionable framework for leading with purpose. Its flexible model enables businesses to engage their employees, customers, and wider community in giving back at every stage of their growth journey.
“We’ve shown what’s possible when companies align business growth with generosity,” said Lesnick. “The next decade is about accelerating that momentum, because the world needs business at the table, now more than ever.”
Join the Movement. Take the pledge. Make an impact. Visit pledge1percent.org
Media Contact:
Kate Lord – Kate@akinagency.com.au
0432 448 248
About Pledge 1%
Pledge 1% is leading a global movement to embed social impact into all businesses. Providing a simple, flexible framework for setting aside staff time, product, profit, and/or equity, Pledge 1% encourages and empowers businesses of all sizes to play a vital role in building stronger communities and driving lasting change. Pledge 1% has inspired over 19,000 companies across more than 130 countries to join the movement. Learn more and take the pledge at pledge1percent.org.
Layla Ramirez
Director, DEIB, Justworks
New York, NY
Pledge 1% is celebrating its 10th Anniversary this year. What can companies do (or do more of) to have a positive social impact in the next 10 years?
Companies can maximize their social impact over the next decade by integrating purpose into their core business strategy. Leading with values means embedding social responsibility into decision-making, from product development to supply chains. Rather than one-time contributions, businesses should focus on sustained, long-term impact—leveraging their unique expertise, resources, and networks. Committing a percentage of one’s equity, time, profit, or product through initiatives like Pledge 1% is a great way to ensure impact grows alongside business success.
What’s the legacy you hope to leave for future generations?
I hope to leave a legacy of a world where opportunity and talent are equally distributed—where everyone, regardless of background, has the resources and support to realize their full potential. True progress happens when barriers are removed and people are empowered to contribute their skills, ideas, and passions to society.
This means fostering access to education, mentorship, and economic opportunity, ensuring that those who choose to pursue their dreams have the means to do so. It’s about creating systems that uplift rather than exclude, where success isn’t determined by circumstance but by determination and ability.
If future generations inherit a world where talent is recognized and nurtured everywhere, not just in privileged spaces, we will have built a more thriving society.
If you could choose one word to define your leadership style, what would it be and why?
Inclusive. Because true leadership is about creating an environment where every voice is heard, valued, and empowered. Having experienced the power of inclusive leadership firsthand, I am convinced that it is the key to navigating change, unlocking potential, and driving sustained success.
An inclusive approach fosters diverse perspectives, fuels innovation, and strengthens teams by ensuring that everyone feels a sense of belonging and purpose. It’s not just about giving people a seat at the table—it’s about making sure they have a voice in shaping the future.
By prioritizing inclusivity, leaders cultivate trust, resilience, and a shared commitment to excellence. In a rapidly evolving world, the ability to bring out the best in people—regardless of background or experience—is what sets great leaders apart.
If you could give one piece of advice to the next generation of women leaders, what would it be?
Trust yourself and do the things your future self will thank you for. Every decision is an opportunity to shape the leader you aspire to become—lean into it with confidence. Growth comes from stepping outside your comfort zone, embracing challenges, and owning your voice. The path won’t always be easy, but by investing in yourself and your vision, you’ll create a future where you thrive and inspire others to do the same.
Trust yourself and do the things your future self will thank you for.
Looking ahead, what are you most excited about—whether in your professional journey or personal life?
I’m most excited about continuing to do meaningful, values-aligned work at a company that truly walks the talk. It’s incredibly fulfilling to be part of an organization that prioritizes impact, and I look forward to deepening that commitment through collaboration—both internally and externally—to drive real progress in inclusion and social impact.
On a personal level, I’m thrilled to support my husband as he embarks on his journey of acquiring a small business. Seeing his vision come to life and helping him and his team leverage Justworks to build a strong foundation is something I genuinely look forward to.
This season is full of opportunities to create, contribute, and uplift others, and I’m energized by the potential to make a lasting difference in both my professional and personal life.