Melissa Brown
Channel Operations Manager, Appfire
Cleveland, United States
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 should actively promote and advocate for their employees to engage with their local communities and give back. Encouraging hands-on involvement helps individuals experience the “ripple effect”—where small acts of kindness create a chain reaction leading to meaningful change. The more employees get involved, the more passionate they become about making a difference, inspiring others, and amplifying their impact. By fostering a culture of service, businesses can drive lasting social change from the ground up.
What’s the legacy you hope to leave for future generations?
I want my legacy to be one of giving back and making a lasting impact on my community—ensuring that every child has the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their circumstances. Through my work with Shoes & Clothes for Kids and leading the Socks in the City campaign, I help break barriers to school attendance by providing essential resources that give children the confidence to learn and grow. Beyond that, I mentor students, guiding them to see their own potential and instilling in them the strength, resilience, and empowerment to become future leaders. I believe that real change happens when we invest in people—lifting up the next generation so they can thrive, lead, and continue the cycle of giving back. My hope is that my work not only provides immediate impact but also inspires others to create lasting, meaningful change in their own communities.
If you could choose one word to define your leadership style, what would it be and why?
Empowerment. I believe leadership is about lifting others up, giving them the confidence, tools, and support they need to succeed. Whether it’s mentoring students, advocating for children, or driving operational excellence in my work, my goal is to create an environment where people feel valued, capable, and inspired to make an impact. True leadership isn’t about holding power—it’s about sharing it, fostering growth, and empowering others to reach their full potential.
If you could give one piece of advice to the next generation of women leaders, what would it be?
All generations matter. Learn from the women who came before you—understand their challenges, how they overcame them, and what fueled their passion and determination. Use their strength as the foundation for your own growth and leadership. At the same time, remember the generations that will follow you. They are the future leaders of our world. Instill in them knowledge, compassion, resilience, and determination. Lift others as you climb, mentor those around you, and create a legacy of empowerment that extends far beyond yourself.
All generations matter.
Looking ahead, what are you most excited about—whether in your professional journey or personal life?
I’m most excited about continuing my work with Shoes & Clothes for Kids and finding new ways to expand our impact. I dedicate countless volunteer hours to supporting the staff, driving a strong annual Socks in the City campaign, and ensuring that more children have access to the essentials they need to succeed. Giving back isn’t just something I do—it’s part of who I am. As I look ahead, I want to inspire more people to get involved, whether through volunteering, leadership, or advocacy. The more hands we have, the bigger difference we can make. My hope is to not only strengthen Shoes & Clothes for Kids but to also cultivate a new generation of volunteers and leaders who are just as passionate about making a lasting impact in our community.
Jori Vila
Founder & Managing Director, Oz Marketing
Tirana, Albania
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 drive meaningful social impact over the next decade by being intentional in introducing their staff and organization to various aspects of social responsibility. This starts with integrating corporate social responsibility (CSR) into the company culture—not as a checkbox activity but as a core value. Businesses should educate employees on social and environmental issues, encourage participation in volunteer programs, and create opportunities for them to contribute in meaningful ways. When employees understand the broader impact of their work, they become active participants in driving change.
Beyond internal engagement, companies should leverage their expertise and resources to create long-term impact. Whether through skills-based volunteering, sustainable business practices, or partnerships with nonprofits, businesses have the power to address pressing social challenges while also strengthening their brand and workplace culture. By embedding social responsibility into daily operations, companies ensure that their contributions are not just momentary gestures but lasting commitments that shape a better future.
What’s the legacy you hope to leave for future generations?
I hope to leave behind a legacy of bold creativity, integrity, and purpose-driven communication. My journey in marketing, branding, and entrepreneurship has always been fueled by a deep belief in the power of storytelling—not just to sell, but to inspire, educate, and create meaningful change.
Through Oz Marketing, I envision a future where businesses and individuals embrace their unique voices, crafting brands that are not just profitable but also impactful. I want future generations to see that success is not solely measured in numbers but in the value we bring to people’s lives, the connections we nurture, and the authenticity we uphold.
Moreover, I hope to empower young professionals, especially in Albania, to dream bigger, think globally, and act with confidence. I want them to know that great things come from those who dare to challenge conventions, embrace continuous learning, and remain fearless in the face of change.
At the heart of my legacy is a simple yet powerful belief: Human creativity, when guided by purpose, can shape a better world.
If you could choose one word to define your leadership style, what would it be and why?
Empowering.
I believe leadership is about creating an environment where people feel confident to take initiative, think independently, and push boundaries. My role is not to dictate but to inspire, guide, and provide the right tools and vision for my team to grow. When people feel empowered, they bring their best ideas, take ownership, and drive meaningful impact—not just for the company, but for themselves and the community around them. True leadership is about building others up so that success becomes a shared achievement, not an individual one.
If you could give one piece of advice to the next generation of women leaders, what would it be?
Own your voice and build your personal brand with intention.
As a woman leader, your personal brand is your power, it’s how you show up, the values you stand for, and the impact you create. Don’t wait for opportunities to be handed to you; position yourself as an authority, share your expertise, and make your voice heard. Be bold, be visible, and don’t shy away from the spotlight. The next generation of women needs to see leaders who are unapologetically themselves, breaking barriers and setting new standards. Your story, your vision, and your presence matter, make sure the world knows it.
Own your voice and build your personal brand with intention.
Looking ahead, what are you most excited about—whether in your professional journey or personal life?
I’m most excited about the next phase of growth—for myself, my business, and the people I work with. Professionally, I look forward to expanding Oz Marketing beyond my personal brand, building a team that thrives on creativity, strategy, and meaningful impact. Watching ideas turn into successful brands and businesses is what fuels my passion.
On a personal level, I’m embracing the journey of continuous learning and new challenges. Whether it’s stepping into new leadership roles, exploring fresh opportunities, or simply pushing boundaries in ways I haven’t before, I’m excited for what’s ahead. The best part? The unknown possibilities that come with every bold step forward.
Terri Schmitt
Executive Director, Nurse Practitioner Associates for Continuing Education (NPACE)
Boynton Beach, Florida
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?
In a world of what seems to be constant information and chaos, showing up with joy, and continuing to do the work to support others. Finding paths forward to do the work, even with blockages is going to be vitally important.
Showing up with joy, and continuing to do the work to support others.
What’s the legacy you hope to leave for future generations?
The importance of nursing, equity in healthcare, and life long learning.
If you could choose one word to define your leadership style, what would it be and why?
Transparent
If you could give one piece of advice to the next generation of women leaders, what would it be?
Don’t be afraid to be who you are and take credit for all of the things you do.
Looking ahead, what are you most excited about—whether in your professional journey or personal life?
I’m taking an official solo vacation this year to Paris! I am very much to looking forward to downtime for me.
Sherry Yang
Engineering Manager, Venue.sh, The Adaptavist Group
Calgary, 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?
Companies can do and do more of advocating for social impact regularly to create an internal culture to give back to local communities and greater global initiatives.
What’s the legacy you hope to leave for future generations?
I wish to leave the legacy of a positive role model as a woman in tech who is passionate about showing up as the change I want to see and continuously moving the dial one inspiration at a time.
If you could choose one word to define your leadership style, what would it be and why?
Adaptive. Because I adjust my approach based on individual team members, the team’s culture, and specific situations. I don’t adhere to a single, rigid framework but instead customize my leadership methods to suit the needs and personalities of those I lead. This flexibility makes me more effective in various contexts and with diverse individuals.
If you could give one piece of advice to the next generation of women leaders, what would it be?
Stay brave. You’re fighting a good fight.
Looking ahead, what are you most excited about—whether in your professional journey or personal life?
I’m most excited professionally about the next generation of women in tech for whom I challenged the status quo. They will likely work with a more compassionate team that values DEI in a workspace. Personally, I’m most excited about the endless opportunities to learn, lead, and live as a woman. I live in a society that does not force me to a default gender role and limits my ability to grow as an individual.
Stay brave. You’re fighting a good fight.
Original article here
Author: Olivia McClure
What motivates you?
If you asked Mallory Boulter, she might say she’s a running enthusiast, or an avid traveler. But the reality is that she’s much more than that. Inspired by the Japanese concept of Ikigai — considering what you love, what you’re good at, and what the world needs when figuring out your life purpose — Boulter has built hers around work that fuels her.
At her core is a belief that when people have access to opportunity, they transform their own futures. And while it’s true that she loves traveling and takes running seriously — she’s currently training for the 2025 Tokyo and London marathons — her true passion lies in showing up for others, which she has cultivated throughout her career. It has also made her an inspiration to countless other women, landing her a spot on Women We Admire’s Top 50 Women Leaders of Seattle for 2024.
When Boulter was working at PwC she became involved in the firm’s Project Belize program, which delivered financial education programs to youth in the community. As she saw the impact of teaching budgeting, savings and financial education, she decided she wanted to elevate this opportunity in other areas of the world. And so, she did just that — starting on a journey that continues to this day.
Along this journey, she has found a workplace where she can bring this purpose to life. She joined Remitly because she saw firsthand the potential of remittances in creating financial opportunity, and now, as VP of Global Impact at Remitly, she drives initiatives that expand access to, and use of, digital financial services for communities worldwide.
‘More Than Just Sending Money’
Remitly was founded to make it easier to send remittances, or money payments, across borders, facilitating a critical exchange that millions of people use every day. “At their core, remittances are more than just sending money,” Boulter explained. “They represent human connection, trust, economic opportunity and resilience. They tell the story of the resiliency of our customers, many of whom move across the world to create opportunities for themselves and their loved ones. In doing so, they become important contributors to economic growth both in the countries to which they move, and in communities around the world.”
Following Energy to Create Lasting Impact Together
For Boulter, impact isn’t just about big initiatives — it’s about showing up, again and again, for people — by focusing on what brings you energy and meaning.
She recently returned from her 10th trip to Tanzania, celebrating a decade of friendships and partnerships with local women entrepreneurs and young leaders, centered on creating access to education and small-business expansion through digital financial services.
“I’ve always believed in the potential of education and economic opportunity, and in 2014, I visited Tanzania to work with the community at a local school,” Boulter said. “What started as one trip turned into ten, and now, a decade later, we’ve built friendships, celebrated graduations, opened bank accounts and more. On my most recent trip, I got to see how much these incredible kids have grown up — hearing about their dreams to be doctors, pilots, teachers and entrepreneurs, and seeing them bring these dreams to life.”
Boulter is especially grateful for how Remitly has transformed the way she supports these communities. Before joining Remitly, she said she would think back to the years when she used to carry cash on planes, worried the money would get lost in transit, or that she’d incur countless ATM fees.
“And then during COVID, I wondered: How would I get funds there when I could no longer travel?” said Boulter. “And that’s when I remembered Remitly. And now — just recently — I was sitting with a friend in Tanzania as she received the funds that I sent her through M-Pesa, a mobile wallet, via Remitly. It was amazing to see how quickly the money was received.”
That seamless access to financial resources is at the heart of Remitly’s vision. And it’s what fuels Boulter’s work every day.
Solving Problems That Matter
For Boulter, finding purpose comes from solving real problems.
Remitly’s co-founder, Matt Oppenheimer, once shared on a Fintech One-on-One podcast that a piece of advice from a mentor that has stuck with him, is to find a problem that pisses you off — and solve it. For Boulter, that problem is the lack of financial access for more than a billion people around the world, and the solution is creating financial services that meet real people where they are at. Her work in Tanzania has provided learnings and insights as she works to solve these challenges in her role today.
“After 10 years working with this community of incredible women and youth, I’ve learned so much from partnering with them — about creativity, entrepreneurship, leadership and love — and I’ve seen the true impact that financial access creates,” Boulter said. “Now, I get to work on solving these problems every day at work. That’s what fuels me and what keeps me here. At Remitly we often say ‘we’re just getting started.’ And that’s so true.”
Over $50 Billion, 18 Languages — 1 Universal Vision
Since its inception in 2011, Remitly has been laser-focused on making cross-border payments more affordable, accessible, secure and reliable, through customer-centric digital innovation — and the hard work has paid off. In 2024, over $50 billion was sent worldwide through Remitly, connecting customers and their recipients in over 170 countries, ensuring accessibility around the world. This growth is a direct reflection of how the company is driving its universal vision: “to transform lives with trusted financial services that transcend borders.”
Leading with Purpose: Lessons in Leadership
Boulter’s experiences — both globally and at Remitly — have shaped her approach to leadership.
“This work has taught me that the best leaders aren’t the ones with all the answers; they’re the ones who are deeply listening and learning,” she said. In one of my early visits to Tanzania, I learned that lasting change is rooted in trust — and that trust takes time. At first I came in with ideas, but when I stopped and asked, the women in the community told me something else. And so I learned — it wasn’t about what I thought I knew, or how I wanted to help — it was about listening to the community and recognizing that they knew what they needed the best.”
This lesson has shaped her work and her leadership, translating into how she leads people, builds teams and fosters collaboration in the workplace and in local community work, where she is a board member of the Boys and Girls Clubs of King County, a leading youth development organization. At Remitly, she is focused on bringing that lesson to life — from advancing financial inclusion to supporting communities through Remitly’s Pledge 1% commitment.
“We’re not just here to move money — we’re elevating opportunity by transforming cross-border financial services – making them more accessible, secure and reliable,” Boulter said. “And that’s a responsibility we take seriously every single day.”
Looking Ahead
For Boulter, Global Impact isn’t just a title – It’s the foundation of everything she does. Whether she’s training for a marathon, working alongside teams at Remitly or visiting loved ones in Tanzania, the goal remains the same: to create pathways to opportunity, together.
“When people have access to the tools and resources they need, they do incredible things,” she said. “And that’s what keeps me going.”
And when asked for her best leadership advice? She said:
“I’ve truly learned that what we do every day matters — and more importantly — why we do it matters. What’s the problem that fuels your passion? What brings you energy? Lean into that, and watch what happens.”
Dr. Sumona De Graaf
Founder & CEO, idealis.
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
If you could describe yourself in one word, what would that be and why?
Fierce. I am fiercely loving, passionate and compassionate towards the people I know and the causes I care about. I am unafraid to stand up for what is right, and to stand up for those who need it most. I believe fiercely in the good of humanity — and I have committed my life and career to working with leaders and companies to get back to center – the human center – when they lose their way.
Pledge 1% provides a framework for businesses to do good. Do you think it’s important for today’s corporate leaders to prioritize social impact? If so, why?
I once asked a CEO, why do businesses exist? The response was a combination of “capitalist outcomes” and “economic growth”. My response: “To make the world a better place with products, services and experiences.” Corporate leaders must prioritize social impact because they have social impact – whether they seek to admit it or not. Their products can change the way we behave, think and live. Their services can shift how we live our lives. The experiences they create – for customers and employees – can transform the mental state of those they touch – positively or negatively. Businesses who don’t acknowledge that their business can do good (or not) are neglecting to take responsibility for what they already do.
Do you give back to the community with your team and work? If so, what does this look like?
Yes! From the founding of our firm in 2022, we committed to the 1% pledge because we heard about it from my best friend who is a non-profit executive. We committed 1% of our revenue to a cause that is meaningful to us, called “Choose Love Movement” – which was started by the mother of a Sandy Hook victim who was six years old when killed in a school shooting. Jesse Lewis’ mother decided to take her hurt and transform it to compassion – starting a program for kids to choose love over hate and prevent future acts of violence. While our company does not work with kids directly, we see that the root of many adult issues in leadership can be traced back to childhood. That is why we chose to give back a percentage of our revenue to Choose Love – to address the issues of tomorrow’s leaders, today.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Believe in yourself as much as others believe in you. And when you doubt yourself, trust the people around you who took a bet on you. They seem pretty smart, so maybe they are onto something.
Believe in yourself as much as others believe in you.
This year’s International Women’s Day themes are focused on investing in women and inspiring inclusion. What can we do to make today’s workplaces more equitable and inclusive for women?
Give them a chance. The issue with equality and equity in the past was that women were systematically excluded from opportunities. When women are given the chance – when they are offered a hand when they are down, when they are given the resources needed when they need it most – they thrive. And they give back. Companies need to systematically audit how work works to ensure that women are given a chance to thrive — in the big and small moments that matter.
What advice do you have for women who are just starting their career?
Keep going. You’ll be unstoppable.
What are you looking forward to this year? Are there any goals (personal or professional), activities, or experiences you are excited about?
I am eager to work with extraordinary colleagues, clients and partners, launch innovative new products that can transform the world of work, and write my book on leading with more humanity at work. I am also looking forward to learning – I have a big milestone birthday this year, and I’m taking the time to pause, reflect and try new things that are uncomfortable for me — like learning a new language, or learning to ski! I think that learning is just as much about a mindset as it is about a skillset, so I am excited to make learning a priority for me this year and beyond.
Heidi Everett
Founder and CEO, Schizy Inc
Melbourne, Australia
If you could describe yourself in one word, what would that be and why?
Cheeky. There’s no one else doing what I’m doing. That uniqueness comes down to three strengths – I come from lived experience of disability, a lifetime of social disadvantage and I operate in the arts. The arts enable me to innovate beyond old fashioned perceptions and patriarchal systems of the mental health system. To be doing that successfully, I need to be OK about taking a few risks and be known as a bit of a renegade. People with complex trauma deserve to be viewed as valid human diversity, not mentally ill people needing to be fixed, cured or prevented. I’m happy and grateful to be championing the change.
Pledge 1% provides a framework for businesses to do good. Do you think it’s important for today’s corporate leaders to prioritize social impact? If so, why?
We need you to encourage and embolden society to take on the responsibility of disability. It’s not a person’s health reality that creates barriers, it’s the structures, attitudes and practices of our environments that disable us. We’re getting there with Deaf and Disabled culture, but people with complex mental health are still on the bottom rung – we’re still seen as burdens, referred to only in deficit or fault. I’d be really happy if you’re able to help shift mental health intelligence beyond the ‘wellbeing’ trend or a workplace asset, to better equip all corners of society to embrace and incorporate people with complex trauma. If you don’t take on this challenge, mental illness is going to be a worldwide social and political problem for a long time.
Do you give back to the community with your team and work? If so, what does this look like?
My organisation Schizy Inc is an innovative fully lived experience led company so we are the community we’re supporting. We are at the forefront of disability innovation and this in itself is creating the sort of society we want to live in. Our operational ethos is about generating respect, dignity and empowerment where there is none. I also do a lot of work teaching, speaking and providing consultancy around access and inclusion. All these activities are done on minimal budgets so I rely on the mantra ‘If I don’t do this, no one is’.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
How’s your spirit? It’s not advice but it still changed my life. A First Nations duty nurse asked me this question once when I was in a mental health clinic trying to find the reasons to stay alive. It was the first time any mental health worker used words to connect with me fully. I’ve never forgotten how it made me feel and it’s a current that flows through all my work now.
This year’s International Women’s Day themes are focused on investing in women and inspiring inclusion. What can we do to make today’s workplaces more equitable and inclusive for women?
Ensure that disabled women are part of the equation. ‘Compared to men without disabilities, women with disabilities are two times less likely to be employed and three times more likely to be illiterate. Evidence from 19 countries in 2017 shows that only 2.3 per cent of women with disabilities, compared to 2.8 per cent of men with disabilities, held a position as a legislator, senior official, or manage. (UN Women). ‘According to the Bureau of Statistics Report in the U.S., the unemployment rate among women with disabilities is 9.4%, whereas it is 4% for those without disabilities’ (Ruh Global IMPACT, US).
What advice do you have for women who are just starting their career?
Surround yourself with people with similar lived experiences. They are your true champions and will reset your compass when things feel beyond your control. They will fill your spirit with joy, honesty and cheekiness. You are equally important to them.
Surround yourself with people with similar lived experiences.
What are you looking forward to this year? Are there any goals (personal or professional), activities, or experiences you are excited about?
I’m very pleased and grateful that I can continue doing the work I love in the community I adore. On a personal front, I’m looking forward to doing more of my own arts projects that allow me to have a bit of fun while changing the world a little tiny bit.
Original article here
Author: Sirocco Group
At Sirocco, we believe that businesses have a profound responsibility to drive positive change in the world. Today, we are thrilled to announce the renewal of our commitment to the Pledge 1% initiative, a global movement that inspires companies to dedicate 1% of their equity, profit, product, and employee time to causes that matter most. This pledge is not merely a corporate obligation; it is a reflection of our core values and an integral part of our mission to make a meaningful impact.
The Impact of Pledge 1%
Since its inception, Pledge 1% has grown into a global community of over 19,000 companies across more than 130 countries, collectively igniting over $2.4 billion in philanthropy through equity commitments alone. This movement provides a flexible framework, allowing companies to contribute in ways that align with their unique strengths and resources, whether through volunteer efforts, product donations, or financial support. By integrating social impact into our business model, we aim to empower communities and foster a sense of purpose that resonates throughout our organisation.
Volunteer Time Off: Making an immediate difference
A cornerstone of our commitment is our Volunteer Time Off (VTO) program, inspired by Salesforce’s model (which offers employees seven paid days of VTO each year). This initiative empowers our team members to dedicate their time and skills to causes they are passionate about, enhancing employee engagement, morale, and retention. By providing structured opportunities for volunteering, we not only contribute to the betterment of our communities but also cultivate a culture of empathy and social responsibility within Sirocco. We are working with our Chief People Officer on suitable themes for each year. In 2025, for example, we are teaming up with GeBlod on blood donation initiatives.
Collaboration in action: Sirocco and Salesforce Sweden
Our partnership with Salesforce exemplifies the power of collaborative efforts in driving social impact.
Recently, we joined forces with the Archipelago Foundation (https://skargardsstiftelsen.se/) in a Nature Reserve on an island in Sweden. Together, we worked on removing invasive reeds to restore grazing areas for cattle and improve spawning grounds for pike, contributing to a balanced and thriving ecosystem. This hands-on project not only had a tangible environmental impact but also strengthened our relationships with partners, customers, and employees, demonstrating the profound effects of collective action. The Archipelago Foundation is the third largest landowner in Stockholm County and is responsible for preserving and developing large and close-to-city recreation areas for visitors from Sweden and from all over the world.
On another occasion, Sirocco volunteers joined forces with Salesforce employees to support a local church (St:Clara Church) as they prepared for the bustling pre-Christmas season. Together, the teams cleaned benches, organised public areas, and assisted church staff with minor repairs and maintenance tasks. This collaboration not only helped the church create a welcoming space for its community but also demonstrated the strength of teamwork and the impact that even small contributions can make when people come together for a common purpose.
Salesforce & Sirocco Team at a recent VTO in Grinda (an island in the Stockholm Archipelago )
Leveraging technology for good
We firmly believe in the transformative power of technology to drive social change. Salesforce’s Nonprofit Cloud offers comprehensive tools for fundraising, program management, and outcome measurement, enabling nonprofits to manage their operations more effectively and amplify their impact. As a Salesforce partner, we are committed to supporting these efforts by helping nonprofits integrate these systems, allowing them to track donations, manage programs, and engage supporters more efficiently.
Looking ahead
Renewing our Pledge 1% commitment reaffirms our dedication to creating a better future. We are excited to continue leveraging our resources, products, and the passion of our employees to drive positive change in our communities and beyond. This journey is not just about giving back; it is about embedding social impact into the very fabric of our business, ensuring that as we grow, our contributions to society grow with us.
To our customers, partners, and team members: thank you for supporting us on this journey. Together, we can make a meaningful and lasting impact, proving that businesses can thrive while driving positive change. We would also encourage you to consider joining the Pledge 1% movement and/or teaming up with us on volunteer activities in our different regions. Contact us with any questions or ideas you may have.
Author: Vivian Chiang
What if the next great inventor, scientist, or innovator is sitting at your local library, their curiosity sparked by a simple yet profound question: What can I do with data?
At Atrium, we’re all about humans helping other humans make sense of data, and providing the resources to help people and organizations solve business problems with AI and analytics. We believe that the magic of data and the power of AI isn’t in their complexity or intelligence—it’s in their ability to inspire curiosity, creativity, and connection…. and that often starts with young people!
The spark of curiosity can begin in the unlikeliest of places—like your local library, where kids are checking out their favorite books, gathering for storytime, or simply letting their imaginations run wild. Sometimes, the most transformative stories start right there, in those quiet corners of possibility.
The story I am excited to share is about Data Detectives, a program born from a desire to make AI and data not just accessible but exciting and empowering for kids. Because if there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s that when you give young minds the tools to explore, they’ll surprise you in ways you never imagined. Kids don’t see a cardboard box, they see an entire space station ready to blast off into the galaxy.
How It All Began: The Creation of Data Detectives
Armed with a passion for teaching and a commitment to giving back, our team set out to create something unique—an initiative that would bring data literacy to life for children aged 5-10.
We wanted to show kids that AI isn’t just a buzzword or a mysterious force behind their screens. It’s something they can engage with, understand, and even have fun with. That’s how Data Detectives came to life: a series of playful, hands-on lessons designed to make data and AI relatable and exciting.
And so, with detective hats on and magnifying glasses in hand, the first group of young Data Detectives set off on their learning adventure.
The Journey: Bringing Data to Life
In partnership with the Brownsburg Public Library in central Indiana, we piloted Data Detectives in 2024, running four sessions that blended storytelling, problem-solving, and hands-on activities.
Pictured: Vivian Chiang (right) with our collaborator Megan McCain (left),
K-12 STEM Enrichment Coordinator, Brownsburg Public Library.
With each session, something magical unfolded. The children’s imaginations lit up as they explored concepts like AI, coding, and data visualization. Alongside them were our passionate volunteers—data professionals by day but big buddies at the event—guiding, encouraging, and sharing their expertise with enthusiasm. Each session became a chapter in their journey, where learning felt like play, and discovery sparked excitement.
Pictured: Kristin Mangan, one of our Lead Strategy Consultants, reading <How to Code a Sandcastle> to the kids.
Our sessions included:
1. AI in Our Phones: The kids discovered how AI recognizes voices and images, connecting the technology to everyday moments like using a smartphone.
Pictured: Tyler Pollard, one of our Lead Analytics Consultants,
explaining how we use AI for voice recognition in our phones.
Pictured: Kristin Mangan, one of our Lead Strategy Consultants,
reading a book about AI.
2. Data Visualization Using Tableau: Armed with colorful charts and graphs, they learned to tell stories with data, uncovering insights and patterns along the way.
Guiding the children on collecting data and creating a bar chart using Tableau (hugs and fist bumps included).
3. Programmatic Thinking: Through playful activities like coding a sandcastle, they grasped foundational coding concepts like loops and sequences.
Pictured: Maddie Fuchs, one of our Data Scientists, reading <How to Code a SandCastle> to the kids.
Pictured: Cary Martin, one of our Analytics Consultants, demonstrating how to use sequences and loops
to program a robot’s movements.
Creative Sandcastles
4. Magic Machine: Their grand finale was building simple AI models, exploring neural networks, and seeing the magic of machine learning come to life.
Pictured: Maddie Neely, one of our data scientists, working with the kids to train an AI model
to identify and distinguish different bug types.
Each session ended with a sense of accomplishment, the kids beaming with pride as they earned their certificates of completion. But the real reward was the spark in their eyes—that unmistakable look of curiosity ignited.
Why We Do This: A Data-Driven Mission to Share Knowledge and Build Community
At Atrium, giving back to our local communities isn’t just something we do—it’s who we are as an organization and a team. And Pledge 1% is a key part of that.
Pictured: Our CO crew in action! (Left) Volunteering at the Food Bank of the Rockies to help prepare meals.
(Right) Supporting the Transgender Center of the Rockies through volunteer efforts.
Pictured: Our Indy crew teamed up with Home Repairs for Good
to provide home repair support for older homeowners with disabilities.
Pictured: Our Jaipur crew brought the joy of a movie experience to the children at Aashray Care Home in India.
“Pledge 1% is one of the most transformative corporate initiatives in the Salesforce ecosystem,” said Atrium CEO Chris Heineken. “We’re proud to have made Pledge 1% a cornerstone of our culture, as it makes our work more meaningful and creates amazing purpose for our team. Our social good initiatives like Data Detectives allow our team members to put their technical expertise to work in their local communities and for our nonprofit customers across the world.”
From the beginning, we’ve believed that education is the key to unlocking potential, especially when it comes to data and AI. We’ve seen firsthand how empowering people with the tools and knowledge to ask the right questions can lead to meaningful and long-term success.
For us, it’s not about flashy promises or quick fixes. It’s about keeping things transparent, understandable, and measurable. Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about creating technology; it’s about making sure it can truly make a difference in people’s lives.
This philosophy is at the core of Data Detectives—we’re not selling anything but knowledge! Knowledge is the first step in transforming curiosity into courage, especially when it comes to technology, which young people are engaging with earlier and earlier these days.
By partnering with local libraries, we’re building a bridge between businesses and communities, making data literacy accessible to all. We envision a world in which every child has the tools to ask better questions, solve bigger problems, and embrace the possibilities of technology.
Join Us in Shaping the Future
I hope our story inspires you—whether you’re a parent, educator, business leader, or someone who simply wants to make a difference—to explore creative ways to get involved in your community. From supporting local libraries to launching your own initiatives, every effort counts! We’d love for you to join us in empowering the next generation.
Data Detectives Facilitators: (from left to right) Cary Martin, Maddie Neely, Vivian Chiang, Tyler Pollard,
Maddie Fuchs, and Megan McCain
Jessie McLachlan
CEO & Co-Founder, Altru Charity
Brisbane, Australia
If you could describe yourself in one word, what would that be and why?
Force- the Nickname my surgical boss gave me. The force to be reckoned with. I am running a fulltime non profit whilst studying medicine full time.
Pledge 1% provides a framework for businesses to do good. Do you think it’s important for today’s corporate leaders to prioritize social impact? If so, why?
Altru is revolutionizing the way society tackles social inequalities. Through our annual Free outreach Altru Fest- we offer immediate, onsite access to essential services such as medical care, job skills and mentoring to at risk youth and marginalised communities. Each attendee is paired with a volunteer guide, forming meaningful human connections designed to result in lasting change. The organisation extends its impact through 1-1 mentoring and tutoring programs,offering continuous support & resources for long term success.
Do you give back to the community with your team and work? If so, what does this look like?
Altru charity festival- we also partner with other brands to encourage tangible social corporate responsibility that has intentional and effective outcomes.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Hard work outweighs talent — every time. Kobe Bryant and “the underdog, usually becomes the goat- their resilience fuels the fire to never give up” – My surgical boss.
Hard work outweighs talent — every time.
This year’s International Women’s Day themes are focused on investing in women and inspiring inclusion. What can we do to make today’s workplaces more equitable and inclusive for women?
We are a board of all females and I am incredibly proud of the support and safe space that we have created for each other. Especially around sharing ideas and how we can positively innovate change.
Establish mentorship and sponsorship programs- I fundamentally believe that mentors have changed the trajectory of my career and encouraged my growth. I want to continue to evolve and grow and have been able to do that because of the support of a mentor.
Ensure equal pay for equal work – This is very important.
What advice do you have for women who are just starting their career?
Stay strong in your conviction & Integrity. Your value does not decrease with someone (brand, individual etc.) else’s inability to see your worth.
What are you looking forward to this year? Are there any goals (personal or professional), activities, or experiences you are excited about?
My charity festival for those in need is expanding to a new city with hopes of expanding to Sydney & Auckland early 2025. Dignity and Opportunity is often gifted by others and our charity celebrates the human beyond their adversity.
