Aubrey Blanche-Sarellano
VP of Equitable Operations, Culture Amp
Sydney, Australia
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 choose to provide unrestricted grants and donations in their giving to truly support non-profit organizations.
What’s the legacy you hope to leave for future generations?
I hope to show that human-centered corporate philanthropy is possible, by prioritizing the both those ultimately impacted and trusting organizations to deploy capital most effectively.
If you could choose one word to define your leadership style, what would it be and why?
Trusting
If you could give one piece of advice to the next generation of women leaders, what would it be?
Don’t spend your time and talents on businesses and leaders who don’t see and appreciate your unique perspective and impact.
Looking ahead, what are you most excited about—whether in your professional journey or personal life?
I’m thrilled to be welcoming the newest cohort of grantee partners for the Culture Amp Foundation and excited for us to build our relationships to help them have positive impact in the world!
Don’t spend your time and talents on businesses and leaders who don’t see and appreciate your unique perspective and impact.
Rhonda Petschel
President, Project Hope Horse Welfare Victoria Inc
Victoria, Australia
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?
There are 4 areas I would like to see companies continue and do more of in the next 10 years.
1. To recognise, support and include scientific research in their strategic planning.
2. Companies to understand the principles of the social determinants of a fair and equitable society, to understand their role and to act on these principles.
3. To develop creative and reciprocal relationships with ethical charities as part of their business model.
4. To have a strong culture of gathering relevant data and use this knowledge for future directions.
What’s the legacy you hope to leave for future generations?
I will continue to work toward making it a legal requirement that domesticated and farm non human animals must have shelter and companionship specific to the needs of their species, in particular for horses not to be housed alone.
If you could choose one word to define your leadership style, what would it be and why?
Respectful: Everyone has individual expertise and world experiences that influence their decisions. To make wise decisions and have a culture for innovation we must not only hear but understand others contribution.
Respectful: Everyone has individual expertise and world experiences that influence their decisions.
If you could give one piece of advice to the next generation of women leaders, what would it be?
To broaden your understanding of life and the world by taking every opportunity to learn from spheres outside the direction of your own life.
Looking ahead, what are you most excited about—whether in your professional journey or personal life?
I am most excited about handing over to the next committee of Project Hope Horse Welfare Victoria well organised governance, an avenue for financial security and a scientific based library of education opportunities for horse guardians.
Mariana Palacios
Social Impact and Sustainability Program Manager, Justworks
New York, USA
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?
1. Be courageous and ground themselves in their values and missions. Policy will change and evolve, but values do not.
2. Today, more than ever, actions will define companies. It is no longer about what a website and press releases says – it’s about the actual actions that are taken.
3. Continue to play the long game. Positive impact does not happen overnight, and we still have a lot of work to do. This continues to be a long game – keep focus on that future.
4. Stop focusing on terms and double down on the work. Call it what you call it – the question should be about the change companies are creating and not if they are calling it CSR, ESG, or DEIB.
5. Dare to innovate and dream up new scenarios, solutions and coalitions. What got us through previous challenges will not get us through this one. We need different and innovative approaches.
What’s the legacy you hope to leave for future generations?
I don’t think much about my legacy, but more of the world I hope I can contribute to build. That is a world center on connection – among people and planet. If we are connected to each other, we see and honor each other’s humanity. If we are connected to the planet, we value it, respect it, and protect it. This is important to me, became organizations are ultimately people. If this can happen in all, if not most of us, then we can work for a world that is balanced.
If you could choose one word to define your leadership style, what would it be and why?
Communal – it is really important for me that people feel connected to a purpose, that they understand their role in achieving a common goal, and that there is true collaboration and openness to different perspectives in the process.
If you could give one piece of advice to the next generation of women leaders, what would it be?
This work, this life – they are not linear. Listen to your passions, interests and heart. Follow the curves that are presented to you.
Listen to your passions, interests and heart. Follow the curves that are presented to you.
Looking ahead, what are you most excited about—whether in your professional journey or personal life?
This year, I am getting married, and I am extremely excited for what this new chapter will bring. Commitment is a very important value to me, and I’m looking forward to the commitment I am about to enter.
Ashleigh Vogstad
Founder & CEO, Transcends
Whistler, Canada
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?
At Transcends, social impact is not an afterthought, it is a strategic driver of business profitability. We view positive social impact not as a cost-center, but as a profit opportunity that provides competitive advantage in a tumultuous economic environment. As a small business, we are able to attract and retain the best people in the technology industry during a skills shortage, in large part due to our social impact strategy. We urge companies to maintain their sustainability mandates, to offer flexible work conditions including remote-work to employees, and to not be swayed by the political landscape to end diversity programs.
What’s the legacy you hope to leave for future generations?
The legacy that my organization, Transcends, stands for is that success and kindness don’t have to be mutually exclusive. Having an authentic and kind way of being, even in the most competitive business landscapes, is a superpower that ignites a flywheel of success.
If you could choose one word to define your leadership style, what would it be and why?
Empowering.
Belief in oneself and in your uncapped potential is the aim of my leadership at Transcends. We have values of ‘conscious connection’ and ‘courage in competition’ that combine to produce an empowered workforce who lean in, take risks, and lead with kindness.
If you could give one piece of advice to the next generation of women leaders, what would it be?
Never underestimate the power of voice. Speak up respectfully, share your ideas with courage and advocate for your beliefs. Your contributions can change the world and your impact can be profound. As you rise, lift others with you, empowering them to be the best versions of themselves.
As you rise, lift others with you, empowering them to be the best versions of themselves.
Looking ahead, what are you most excited about—whether in your professional journey or personal life?
I am most excited about scaling the global impact of Transcends, while building an organizational culture that is a best-in-class example of remote-first lifestyles and how they can enable deeper connections in local communities and the natural world around us.
Operating in the technology industry, the rate of change is exponential, especially with the most recent advances in agentic AI. I see this as a tremendous opportunity for leaders to rethink the role of work in our lives.
On a personal note, after getting engaged on a hiking and biking trip along the Northern tip of the Coromandel peninsula in New Zealand last December, I’m excited to be planning a wedding in Whistler, British Columbia.
Christie Gera
Manager of Technical Writer, Appfire
Quakertown, PA USA
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?
To maximize social impact over the next decade, companies should empower employees to play an active role in philanthropic initiatives. At Appfire, our corporate social responsibility program, Appfire Town, is designed to support causes that matter most to our employees. Traditionally, philanthropic decisions are made at the executive level, often without direct employee engagement. By shifting decision-making to include employees, companies can foster a deeper sense of investment and local community impact.
What’s the legacy you hope to leave for future generations?
The legacy I hope to leave for future generations is one of compassion and service, both in my personal and professional life. First, I am a mom, and I strive to set an example for my children by showing them the importance of empathy and giving back. I want them to see that making a difference starts with small, everyday actions and that they have the power to create positive change. Beyond my family, I am committed to serving others. I’m the president of my local food pantry and volunteer frequently. Ensuring that everyone has access to food and resources is the responsibility of every human.
Professionally, I am passionate about my work, where I lead and support teams to create clear, accessible, and impactful communication. Ultimately, I want to leave a legacy of empathy and purpose, one that encourages others to make a lasting difference in both their personal and professional lives.
If you could choose one word to define your leadership style, what would it be and why?
I lead by understanding and supporting those around me, whether as a mom, a volunteer, or a professional. By creating an environment where people feel heard and valued, I help them grow and succeed. True leadership starts with compassion and a commitment to lifting others up.
If you could give one piece of advice to the next generation of women leaders, what would it be?
Be someone people want to work with. Skills and expertise are important, but the ability to collaborate, listen, and support others will take you further than being the best at everything. Leadership isn’t about standing out, it’s about lifting others up and succeeding together.
Leadership isn’t about standing out, it’s about lifting others up and succeeding together.
Looking ahead, what are you most excited about—whether in your professional journey or personal life?
I’m most excited to see how AI continues to evolve. The rapid advancements in AI are transforming everything, from how we create and consume information to how we collaborate across industries. I’m eager to see how AI enhances efficiency and changes processes that have been in place for decades.
Marissa Lambrecht
Operations Team Lead, Appluent Business Solutions
Phoenixville, PA
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 Pledge 1% mission embodies exactly what companies can do to have a positive social impact. Giving back is so important—whether through time spent volunteering, donating products/services, or a portion of profits. Companies have the opportunity to create meaningful change by actively engaging with their communities, supporting nonprofits, and fostering a culture of generosity within their organizations. By prioritizing social impact, businesses can not only drive success but also leave a lasting, positive legacy.
What’s the legacy you hope to leave for future generations?
I want to be remembered not just for my professional success, but for leaving a positive impact – especially on women. I hope to inspire women to recognize that they belong in every room they walk into and that they deserve to be there. Women should always have the courage to confidently pursue their passions, no matter the challenges or adversity they face. We, as women, are making a difference, and it is up to us to keep moving the needle forward!
If you could choose one word to define your leadership style, what would it be and why?
As a former athlete with years of competitive volleyball experience, I learned the importance of effective communication, teamwork, and self-accountability—skills that I now apply in the workplace. Just as success on the court requires trust and coordination, I lead by fostering a collaborative environment where every team member can feel heard and contribute to our shared goals.
If you could give one piece of advice to the next generation of women leaders, what would it be?
Surround yourself with people who challenge, inspire and support you. There is so much you can learn from both leaders and peers who push you to grow. In turn, pay it forward by mentoring others when you can. Leadership is a continuous cycle of learning and giving back. Most importantly, never be afraid to speak up and share your ideas – your perspective is valuable!
Surround yourself with people who challenge, inspire and support you.
Looking ahead, what are you most excited about—whether in your professional journey or personal life?
Looking ahead, I’m most excited for my continued growth—both professionally and personally. Each year presents new opportunities to learn, evolve, and expand my skill set. In my career, I look forward to deepening my expertise in emerging technologies and helping my clients grow and scale their businesses.
Tzoe Keat CHIAM
CEO/PLAYCILITATOR©, Collabtitude
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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?
As a woman of color, DEI has always been an important part of my life. I strongly believe companies should (re-)implement equitable hiring practices and leadership development for underrepresented groups. One approach to consider is implementing “reverse hiring,” where job roles are co-created with communities to better align with their unique skills and needs.
What’s the legacy you hope to leave for future generations?
The legacy I hope to leave for future generations is grounded in the values of collaboration, inclusion, and meaningful impact, values that are at the heart of both Collabtitude and PLAYCILITATION©. I want to help create spaces where people from all backgrounds can come together, share their strengths, and build solutions that truly make a difference. I believe that by fostering a culture of creativity and simplicity, we can solve complex problems in ways that are not just effective but also equitable and accessible to all.
I want to inspire others to embrace the power of innovation and balance, and to create environments where diversity is celebrated and everyone has the opportunity to grow and contribute. Through both work and play, my hope is to leave a legacy of lasting connections and purposeful change—a world where we’re all working together to make things better for everyone.
If you could choose one word to define your leadership style, what would it be and why?
If I had to choose one word to define my leadership style, it would be “empowering.” I believe leadership is about creating an environment where people are supported and encouraged to take ownership of their growth. It’s about providing resources, trust, and the freedom to innovate.
If you could give one piece of advice to the next generation of women leaders, what would it be?
If I could give one piece of advice to the next generation of women leaders, it would be to own your voice and trust your instincts… even when it feels uncomfortable. I know how easy it can be to doubt yourself or try to fit into someone else’s idea of what a leader should look like. But the truth is, the best leaders are the ones who show up as their true selves, with all their strengths, vulnerabilities, and passions. Don’t be afraid to step up, even when it feels like you don’t have all the answers. Leadership is about empowering others, and that starts with having the courage to believe in yourself. Stay connected to your values, take calculated risks, and surround yourself with people who make you feel seen and supported. You’ve got everything it takes to lead in your own unique way.
Looking ahead, what are you most excited about—whether in your professional journey or personal life?
Looking ahead, I’m really excited about the chance to keep growing, both in my career and personally.
Professionally, I’m excited about continuing to build something meaningful with Collabtitude and PLAYCILITATION©. I love the idea of creating spaces where people can connect, learn, and thrive together, and I can’t wait to see how we can push the boundaries of what we can do with game-based learning and collaboration.
On a more personal level, I’m especially excited to see both my kids grow up into the beautiful human beings I can already see they’re becoming. There’s nothing quite like watching them discover the world and develop into their unique selves. Life is always full of surprises, and I’m excited to embrace new opportunities, challenges, and experiences that will help me continue learning and evolving. But most of all, I’m excited about building a life that’s aligned with my values and that creates a positive impact on the people and communities I’m a part of. It’s about staying true to who I am and being open to the journey ahead.
It’s about staying true to who I am and being open to the journey ahead.
Charly Stone
CEO, Cure EB Foundation
Melbourne, Australia
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?
I think companies should be doing more to create inclusive workplaces with fair pay, mental health support, and opportunities for growth. It’s happening slowly, but not everywhere—and definitely not enough. Companies could increase their partnerships with charities and leverage social relationships not only to fund vital change for a better future but also to utilise the support and resources that make this easier. Why work harder when you can work smarter and help multiple communities succeed in the process?
Further funding of vital programs—such as medical research, mental and physical health initiatives, human and animal rights organisations, and local community programs through volunteering and education—would be a huge step in the right direction to ensure we continue progressing. Purpose-driven innovation will also be key in the development of products and services that can create large-scale impact, tackling global challenges like healthcare and accessibility.
This all goes hand in hand with something I think we all need to work on—transparency, ethical governance, and impact investing, which will help ensure long-term, meaningful change. If more companies used their influence to advocate for policies that promote sustainability, human rights, and social justice, we’d all be better off. I’m a firm believer that when businesses prioritise people and the planet alongside profits, they don’t just do good—they create a future where everyone thrives.
What’s the legacy you hope to leave for future generations?
I have dedicated my life to the not-for-profit sector, raising millions of dollars for incredible charities. My legacy is one of giving back—helping to build strong foundations for future generations. I strive for a safer, more supportive world where no one is left behind and where fair and equal opportunities give hard-working individuals the chance to create their own success. The legacy I want to leave is a testament to the idea that anything is possible. No matter what life throws your way, you can achieve incredible things—and you don’t need to be born into generational wealth to have that opportunity.
If you could choose one word to define your leadership style, what would it be and why?
Enabling. I believe in enabling people to be their own leaders. I don’t micromanage—I want each person who reports to me to have the confidence to make decisions with conviction, embrace opportunities, and continuously progress in their personal development. Happy staff aren’t just motivated by perks like free gym passes or a day off for their birthday; they thrive under strong leadership, autonomy, and trust. They need to know that I wholeheartedly support their decisions—right or wrong—and that I stand with them. The best lessons often come from mistakes, and true leadership means having your team’s back through it all. That’s why they’ll follow you into any new adventure, driving success for both themselves and the business.
If you could give one piece of advice to the next generation of women leaders, what would it be?
Don’t give up, and believe in yourself. There will always be people who want a share in your success—so surround yourself with a strong network of leaders, travel, and immerse yourself in different cultures. Never ask someone to do something you wouldn’t do yourself, and enjoy every moment possible. Challenges will come, but keep your chin up and laugh them off. How you handle yourself and your emotions under pressure is what people will remember. Be the woman who lifts others up, faces every challenge with a smile, and isn’t afraid to get her hands dirty to turn her dreams into reality.
Looking ahead, what are you most excited about—whether in your professional journey or personal life?
Professionally, I’m excited to continue building on my networks through the various growth strategies set to roll out throughout 2025 for the Cure EB Foundation. I have some huge goals ahead, and achieving those milestones really gives me that warm, fuzzy feeling that keeps me motivated. In my limited downtime, I look forward to walking my dogs, relaxing with my family, and finally locking in a holiday to visit the UK—my home where I grew up. It’s been far too long since I’ve been able to catch up with family and friends, so I’m truly excited for that overdue reunion.
No matter what life throws your way, you can achieve incredible things—and you don’t need to be born into generational wealth to have that opportunity.
Rachel Park
Founder / Owner / Designer, The ParkPuff® seatbelt pillow
Los Angeles, 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?
We need to see more women LEADERS! After working 10+ years in the tech industry, I still see way too many “manels.” There are ABSOLUTELY talented women leaders in this community — FIND THEM.
What’s the legacy you hope to leave for future generations?
Paving my own path with my unique career! Do not let anyone put you in a box — I am a proud techie AND creative at heart! (More than one thing can be true at once. BOTH / AND.)
Do not let anyone put you in a box.
If you could choose one word to define your leadership style, what would it be and why?
Collaborative
If you could give one piece of advice to the next generation of women leaders, what would it be?
I’ve often been the only woman on the tech team — and certainly the only woman of color — but I know I am not the only one out here. Although it may not always feel like it, know you are NOT alone. What you consider shortcomings will be the very things that distinguish you from everyone else and set you apart.
Looking ahead, what are you most excited about—whether in your professional journey or personal life?
I’m excited to expand the ParkPuff® seatbelt pillow’s impact for cancer survivors + patients worldwide, while using my tech skills for good by helping nonprofits set up for success! I’m a lifelong learner, a passionate advocate for (cyber)security awareness, and will continue to build diverse + inclusive spaces in tech.
