Ines Garcia
Agile & Climate Coach, Get Agile
Wiltshire, UK
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?
Doing well and doing good. We’re used to operating by the maxim “you can have cheap, fast or good: pick two”, but with the triad of sustainability, happiness and profit you really can have all three. In fact, with those things as a focus they actually nourish each other. Companies are composed of individuals and we can do both, do good and do well. In fact, it’s more rewarding. The value of a company’s goods and services is relative to the waste it generates.
“Sustainability and happiness are not at the expense of profit but a means to it.”
Do you give back to the community with your team and work? If so, what does this look like?
See last year impact report includes showcase of Pledge as well to other organizations I support as Stop the Trafikk, Pepup Tech, Refugeeforce, Agile Alliance (Sustainability Initiative), Pledge1%, Business Declares, Doughnut Economics Action Lab, Work on Climate & Business of Purpose communities, The Mentorship Central & YeurLeadin.
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?
Rich functioning ecosystems are diverse. And it goes beyond gender and ethnicity. Some time back I came across a model of a diversity map; it accounted for how we relate and connect, how we think and process information, what we believe and feel, what we do professionally and also how we do it, physical traits and many others. A model which unfortunately I haven’t been able to locate again. Diversity is wide, it promotes health, vitality, productivity of ecosystems; just like in nature.
What advice do you have for women who are just starting their career?
Bias, preconceptions, westerner old fashion culture, privilege, eco-chambers… that impact how one approaches challenging situations. The delicate and damaged very systems that sustain our life on earth, is a challenging situation. There is much ancestry and indigenous knowledge we can tap into, and also there is much we can learn from nature. The solutions are all around us, if we ‘quiet our cleverness’ and pay attention, as the mechanisms, strategies and functions to solve our problems are in living beings all around us, those that have evolved and refined over the last 3.8 billion years. Let’s break free from dualism, there is more to us than just one attribute. There are some fiscal and neurological traits we can tap into to evolve and speed the required work towards the Sustainable Development Goals.
What are you looking forward to this year? Are there any goals (personal or professional), activities, or experiences you are excited about?
Over the last year I have been crafting a programme with 3 other agile coaches. We are all freelancers and for this, we have created the Coalition of the Willing. With our first 4 weeks program we address how change agents today can embed sustainability into their daily practice, we have called it “Agile Sustainability in Practice: Navigating Circular Economy, SDGs, and Complexity Science”. With it we have also designed a “Pay It Forward” scheme for every registration supports towards someone who lacks the means, thus leveling the educational playing field. Basically, the USP is to evolve current agile practices to account for natural and social capital. Essentially skilling up for what’s on demand and what we ought to achieve within the next 6 years: The legally binding Paris Agreement. Not long at all now!
Virginia Tenpenny
President, North America and Chief Impact Officer, Goodera
Nashville, Tennessee
If you could describe yourself in one word, what would that be and why? Please explain with a short story or example.
Hopeful. I’m hopeful not because of a natural disposition but because I had the privilege of working among leaders who instilled an understanding of what hope is and how to cultivate it on and off the job. As a team, we nurtured the elements that make hope possible: agency, worth, possibility, connection and openness. This was a profound gift that delivered results for the business and continues to enrich all spheres of my life from leadership on the job, how I parent, and the belief I have in a brighter future for all.
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?
Social impact is vital for companies who want to hire the best talent, build trust with their customers, and who have ambitions for the business to endure beyond this decade. An effective social impact strategy helps to future proof the business and sets conditions for mutual thriving across the workforce, the business and the communities it serves.
Do you give back to the community with your team and work? If so, what does this look like? Please feel free to add a specific story or experience.
Engaging in volunteering has been a part of every role I’ve held for over twenty years. I now have the opportunity to work for a company that makes it even easier for businesses to engage and deploy their best asset – their people – into communities to help advance change. As part of my job, I get to join colleagues to test new volunteer experiences, as well as join volunteer projects with our clients and their employees.
Beyond the job, I continue to serve on the board of directors for UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, which has provided me with the experiences and skills to help be a better leader on the job.
What’s the best piece of advice you ever received?
“Get out of your comfort zone”. Don’t be afraid to fail and trust that every experience is teaching you something that will serve you as you move forward.
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?
Creating equitable and inclusive workplaces for women requires a comprehensive approach that is reflected across policies, programs and company culture. Companies need to address structural issues from pay transparency to equity across pay and benefits. And people need to “see it to be it”, meaning leadership teams need to reflect the diverse workforce and it’s important for women to see leaders who may also be working moms or in a caregiver role.
Two-way mentorship is also important for leaders to understand challenges women face in the workplace and understand what support they need from their employer – from flexible schedules to training and mentorship programs. Focusing on creating a more inclusive workplace for women, or any specific population, accelerates the creation of a more inclusive workplace for all.
What advice do you have for women who are just starting their career?
My career advice is to follow the superpower + passion + priority formula.
“Reflect on your unique superpower: what are you particularly good at or enjoy doing? Embrace it and develop it. Next, reflect on your passion: what causes get you out of bed or issues do you find more intellectually engaging? Then find a company or team within a company where that cause is a priority.”
What are you looking forward to this year? Are there any goals (personal or professional), activities, or experiences you are excited about?
I’ve dedicated 2024 as my learning year and seek to learn as much as I can on the job, off the job as a parent, and to learn to play pickleball (and ultimately beat my husband).
Dayo McIntosh
Founder & CEO, Yateou, Inc
Sparks, USA
If you could describe yourself in one word, what would that be and why?
Resilient.
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?
Yes, I think it’s really important for corporate leaders today to focus on making a positive impact on society. Our world is complicated and marked by both chaos and injustice, so it’s crucial for business leaders to actively work towards positive change. Programs like Pledge 1% provide a good structure for businesses to contribute to making society better. When corporate leaders prioritize social impact, they’re not just doing it because it’s the right thing, but they’re also playing a big role in creating a future where the next generations can thrive. Making a commitment to positive action is a key part of moving towards a world that’s fair and inclusive, where everyone is recognized for their value.
Do you give back to the community with your team and work? If so, what does this look like?
As a socially conscious business, we contribute 10% of our profits to empower women, supporting initiatives both in the US and globally, particularly in underprivileged communities. Data shows that when women are supported, community success skyrockets. We aim to play a vital role in moving the world forward positively.
Additionally, we’re committed to closing technological gaps in marginalized US communities. Personally, as a black woman, I understand the struggle of lacking resources and representation. It’s hard to dream big when you can’t see yourself in certain places. I partner with organizations like Girls on the Run, showcasing my robot. The interest level and response from the girls always resonates and brings everything full circle for me. Being able to inspire the next generation is surreal and energizing, I am determined to keep showing up so that little girls and boys who look like me can hold their heads a little higher.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
“What would you do if you weren’t afraid”? Do it!
What advice do you have for women who are just starting their career?
For women initiating their careers, I recommend seeking mentorship within your company, industry, or from someone following a career path aligned with your aspirations.
“Developing connections with accomplished professionals in influential roles not only secures an advocate within your field but also affords valuable insights, aiding in a more strategic navigation of your career journey.”
Additionally, consider embracing opportunities that may be overlooked by others, as this approach can distinguish you and contribute to your professional growth.
What are you looking forward to this year? Are there any goals (personal or professional), activities, or experiences you are excited about?
I am very excited about this year as it signifies the culmination of extensive efforts spanning five years. The highlight is the upcoming launch of our first-ever experiential robotic kiosk, set to debut in Vegas. With our unique patented robotic application, we aspire to create a network of interconnected kiosks in bustling places like airports and malls.
These kiosks go beyond being operational hubs for manufacturing; they are integral to our marketing and sales strategy. Picture this: you’re in a mall, and a robot is crafting personalized skincare products, on demand! The kiosks serve as a gateway to attract and engage people, aiming to convert them into long-term customers. This launch signifies the full realization of Yateou, a groundbreaking fusion of beauty, artificial intelligence, and robotics.
Christina Andreou
Head of Global Sustainability, o9 Solutions
Amsterdam, NL
If you could describe yourself in one word, what would that be and why? Please explain with a short story or example.
Courageous. Since a young age, I was always curious to try new things and continuously learn and grow. Twelve years ago, I left Athens, my home country to pursue a Masters in Sustainability in Geneva, a choice that opened to me a whole new world of possibilities. Six years later, feeling quite limited in the choices I had there, I decided to take a job and move to Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Every time I move, there is always an element of discomfort and fear, but by making these moves, I discover new aspects of myself, along with different cultures.
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?
Nowadays on the one hand the advancement of technology is unprecedented, with generative AI as an example. On the other hand, inequalities as well as huge challenges for nature and the environment continue to exist. The need for businesses to step up and use their resources to do good is needed as ever.
We as a company have Paul Polman’s “Net Positive” as North Star, we want the planet to be a better place because of o9’s positive impact, we make that happen first and foremost by utilizing our technology to streamline the supply chains of the most impactful companies in the world and we are well aware that we cannot make that happen without being an integral part of communities such as Pledge 1%, as well as Climate Pledge and UN Global Compact.
Do you give back to the community with your team and work? If so, what does this look like? Please feel free to add a specific story or experience.
At o9, we have built an employee impact program as part of the Pledge 1% community of WePledge. We support employees to donate time and funds to causes that inspire them, while at the same time we are evolving our company’s philanthropic efforts. In 2024, we are launching for the first time the “o9 Grant”, a program that will enable a selected non profit, in this case Make a Difference (MAD), to scale their technology capabilities of their programs to the community. I am very proud of the team that has put this program in place and is continuously striving to be best in class and also partner with other stakeholders in the philanthropy community to scale our impact.
What’s the best piece of advice you ever received?
It comes from my MBA program. That the first draft of anything we prepare, should never be the final one. Even though that specific tip was regarding academic paper drafts, it highlights the importance of patience and iterations of our work. In the beginning any project is not perfect, but as we work on it, we have the chance to improve it and make it excellent.
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?
I think the best thing is to not expect them to think and behave like men, but rather to embrace their way of working and leading. And also to promote the idea of men supporting women, it’s not only about women supporting women.
“I think the best thing is to not expect them to think and behave like men, but rather to embrace their way of working and leading. And also to promote the idea of men supporting women, it’s not only about women supporting women.”
What advice do you have for women who are just starting their career?
To follow their intuition. Oftentimes, there is a little voice telling us what to do next, we should not be afraid to follow it. Even if a step in your life or career doesn’t make rational sense, if it makes sense to you at the given time, then do it, because you will be more authentic.
What are you looking forward to this year? Are there any goals (personal or professional), activities, or experiences you are excited about?
Yes, many! Professionally, this is the year that we implement many strategic initiatives especially around our ESG transformation so I am eager to see what we achieve by the end of this year. Personally, first of all I signed up for a sprint triathlon in my home country in Greece in May, not sure why (!) as the training is quite demanding, but I am always looking to extend my limits and build my self confidence with these types of athletic initiatives.
Hobby wise, I am an electronic music DJ so it would be great to also play at some nice occasions as well.
Renee Barker
Director, Circular Economy Partnerships, LiquiDonate
Nashville, Tennessee, USA
If you could describe yourself in one word, what would that be and why?
Adaptable – leading with the ability to adjust in changing circumstances is so important in an emerging climate tech industry. In my role, it is important to understand and adapt to the needs of our partners on both sides of the equation. For example, I explored how we can provide metrics and storytelling to retailers and nonprofits that match their needs. We do this through customizable reporting and shareable assets for both that relate to their audiences. Retailers want to know pounds diverted and number of recipients and nonprofits want ways to showcase donations in action with their clients.
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?
Definitely important! It is so needed to contribute to the future of our communities. We have to continue to collaborate to make a more sustainable world, and operate in a way that builds up society to be more equitable. A corporate culture of sustainability is an ongoing effort, and each time we prioritize social impact we are prioritizing our futures. No matter how large of a business you are, there are always opportunities.
Do you give back to the community with your team and work? If so, what does this look like?
I love that LiquiDonate offers paid volunteer time, and that we take initiative in volunteering when our remote team gets together. When we travel for a conference or event, we set aside time to work with a local organization. Some examples this past year include volunteering at a food bank, picking up litter, sorting items at a community center, food rescue, and more.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
You don’t know what you don’t know and that’s okay! Seek opportunities to connect with others and learn from people. Sharing and collaborating is how we can all grow.
“Seek opportunities to connect with others and learn from people. Sharing and collaborating is how we can all grow.”
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?
Workplace transparency is important and I believe we are past the days of safeguarding so many unknowns. To be equitable and inclusive, today’s workplaces can invest in their women and make clear opportunities for training, mentorship, and advancement pathways.
What advice do you have for women who are just starting their career?
Informational interviews! Find someone who has the job you want or does something you find interesting, and learn more directly from the source. Many folks are very willing to set aside some time to chat and answer specific questions about their career.
What are you looking forward to this year? Are there any goals (personal or professional), activities, or experiences you are excited about?
I’m excited to keep building on our product offerings and expand our network to more nonprofits and schools in need. We hit some great milestones last year — every state now has a member! There is so much more room to grow and help companies make a positive impact in all communities and I hope to move donations in every U.S. city.
Lara Solomon
CEO, Hoopsy
London, UK
If you could describe yourself in one word, what would that be and why?
Resilient.
Do you give back to the community with your team and work? If so, what does this look like?
We give back through the product we sell in that it causes much less pollution than current pregnancy tests, and also through our free online fertility community that supports women on their fertility journey.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
If it was easy then everyone would do it.
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?
I think it starts with giving women a seat at the table, whatever table is relevant. Men can’t ever really fully understand what it is like to be a woman and therefore it is hard for them to make decisions on their behalf. Get women involved in the decisions and shape of the company to make others feel included.
“I think it starts with giving women a seat at the table, whatever table is relevant.”
What advice do you have for women who are just starting their career?
Don’t be afraid to challenge the status quo, often the only reason things are done a certain way is because they always have been done that way.
What are you looking forward to this year? Are there any goals (personal or professional), activities, or experiences you are excited about?
For Hoopsy I am excited about launching our pregnancy test into Europe and me personally combining travel within Europe with work by working remotely more often.
Aubrey Blanche-Sarellano
VP of Equitable Operations, Culture Amp
Sydney, Australia
If you could describe yourself in one word, what would that be and why?
Passionate: I’m someone who thow myself into the things I care about and the challenges that I see. I tend to gravitate towards issues that are difficult and also hold people back from achieving their potential — hence the career I’ve chosen!
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 believe that given the overall impact that businesses have on society, there is no excuse for them not considering social impact in their operations. It’s leaders’ ethical duty to engage in the world and take responsibility for having impact to make the world better than they found it.
Do you give back to the community with your team and work? If so, what does this look like?
I believe in sharing the specific skills and access that I have. That means that most of my volunteering focuses on free consulting for organizations who couldn’t otherwise afford it, and mentoring folks who haven’t always been given the chance to get support from people in their fields.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
“Know how to tell the difference between rules that are just and unjust, and know what you’re willing to risk to stand on the side of what’s right.”
What advice do you have for women who are just starting their career?
Don’t limit yourself to specific job titles. Figure out what skills you get energy from using and what problems are exciting for you to solve.
“Look for roles–or hack your current one–to do more of what lights you up.”
What are you looking forward to this year? Are there any goals (personal or professional), activities, or experiences you are excited about?
I’m looking forward to having my wedding after a whirlwind couple of years moving back and forth around the world!
Ashley Ladd
Director of Diversity, Inclusion & Social Impact, Snyk
Boston, MA
If you could describe yourself in one word, what would that be and why?
Ambitious. My mom instilled in me at a young age to be curious, hard-working, and kind to everyone. She led by example in so many ways and it showed me that anything is possible when you put your mind to it. I take these lessons with me in all that I do, both personally and professionally.
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?
It’s incredibly important for leaders today to advocate for and prioritize social impact throughout their organization. Not only is it good for business but it’s a great way to pay it forward, maximize impact globally and ensure we’re taking care of the communities where we live and work.
Do you give back to the community with your team and work? If so, what does this look like?
Snyk has a wide array of Social Impact programs that run each year but one of our most impactful programs is our Snyk Week of Impact. As a company, we commit to participating in volunteer opportunities across the globe within one week to increase our impact exponentially. From renovating a school and street outreach to support the homeless to packing meals and cleaning up a community center our Snykers work together as One Team to leave a lasting impact.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
“When people show you who they are, believe them.” – Maya Angelou
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?
Creating more equitable and inclusive spaces for women begins with community and conversation. We need to ensure we’re having conversations about equal pay, promotions, and career growth, and doing so throughout the organization. From Employee Resource Groups to Leadership, these conversations need to happen often and include everyone.
What advice do you have for women who are just starting their career?
You may not know exactly what you want your career to be (and that’s ok!).
“Be intentional about deepening your understanding and skillset in the areas that will help you get that dream job. Lean in and take risks where you can – it will always be a great learning experience.”
Piyusha Pilania
Salesforce Consulting Manager, Horizontal Digital
Vadodara, India
If you could describe yourself in one word, what would that be and why?
Resilience. I come from a very traditional Rajasthani family where girls are married as soon as possible, I was married at the age of 20 during my bachelor’s degree. I trained to be a housewife and dedicate my life towards family. But I wanted to do something to change this narrative, I built a career for myself and now I’m helping other females in the villages of Rajasthan to stand on their feet and have a career of their own.
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?
Leaders need to put social impact high on their list of priorities because it’s all about making a real difference in the world. By focusing on social initiatives, we can grow together in a way that includes everyone. These efforts are crucial for lifting up communities that might be struggling financially or facing other kinds of challenges. It’s about bringing people together from all walks of life and making sure everyone has a fair shot.
Do you give back to the community with your team and work? If so, what does this look like?
I love giving back, both on my own and alongside my team. Personally, I lead workshops in Rajasthan’s rural villages to inspire and empower women through education. I’m also deeply involved in organizing Salesforce events and mentorship programs, all aimed at empowering our youth with the skills they need for the future. Together with my team, we reach out to schools in underprivileged areas, donating essential school supplies and sharing a glimpse into the corporate world. Plus, we each get some time off every year to volunteer for a cause that’s close to our hearts.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
When I got married, I remember telling my teacher I thought I’d end up being a housewife forever because having a career seemed like an impossible dream. But she gave me some life-changing advice. She said, “You won’t know unless you try.” So, I took her words to heart, and look where I am now—balancing life as a mom and a wife, all while nurturing my career.
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?
One simple yet powerful idea is to start mentorship programs specifically designed for women. By pairing up-and-coming female professionals with seasoned leaders, we can create a supportive environment that not only nurtures their growth but also paves the way for a more inclusive culture. It’s about giving women the tools, confidence, and network they need to shine.
Another idea is to create a nurturing environment for new mothers in the workplace. They’re already on the incredible journey of caring for a little one, and having the support of their team can make all the difference.
“Imagine flexible working hours, dedicated mother’s rooms for privacy, and a culture that truly understands the balance between work and family life. It’s about showing new moms that they’re valued not just as employees, but as whole people taking on one of life’s most beautiful challenges.”
What advice do you have for women who are just starting their career?
You are no way less than the opposite gender so you need to overcome the imposter syndrome and grab the opportunities to progress in your career. Support other females as much as you can this camaraderie can help us grow significantly.
What are you looking forward to this year? Are there any goals (personal or professional), activities, or experiences you are excited about?
This year is already looking so bright, I have already presented a session at Philippines Dreamin, and I have started my new role this month onwards. For the upcoming months, I plan on getting some new certifications to upskill myself, run some more bootcamps, present a session at Dreamforce and organize at least one speed mentoring session each month.