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.

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.

Maham Hassan

Director & Technical Architect, Cloud-1
Dubai, UAE

If you could describe yourself in one word, what would that be and why?
Committed.

It has been a journey marked by ongoing commitment to achieving excellence. Back in 2013, when Salesforce was relatively unknown in Pakistan, I made a conscious decision to pursue a career in this emerging field. Despite the limited awareness and support around me, I remained steadfast in my determination, eventually emerging as one of the pioneering women working in Salesforce within the region.

My commitment extended beyond personal success; it encompassed a dedication to continuous learning and the empowerment of others. Recognizing the importance of knowledge-sharing, I took it upon myself to not only deepen my own expertise but also to impart that knowledge and mentor new talent entering the Salesforce ecosystem.

Through countless hours of study, hands-on experience, and mentorship, I honed my skills and navigated the challenges that came my way. And as I progressed in my journey, I made it a priority to uplift others, helping them unlock their potential and thrive in their own Salesforce careers.

In this pursuit of excellence, my commitment has remained unwavering. It is this dedication to learning, sharing, and nurturing talent that has not only shaped my own success but also contributed to the growth of the Salesforce community in Pakistan. And as I continue on this journey, I am driven by the belief that true fulfillment lies not just in personal achievements, but in the collective success and advancement of all those around me.

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?
In today’s corporate landscape, prioritizing social impact is not just admirable but essential. The reasons behind this imperative are manifold. Firstly, companies bear a responsibility to contribute positively to society, as doing so not only enhances their reputation but also fosters trust among customers, employees, and communities alike.

Furthermore, corporate leaders who embrace social responsibility are better positioned to attract and retain top talent. In an era where the younger workforce seeks meaning and purpose in their professional lives, companies that champion social impact resonate more deeply with employees, leading to higher retention rates and a more engaged workforce.

Moreover, prioritizing social impact and giving back to the community isn’t just a moral obligation; it’s a strategic advantage. By actively engaging in initiatives that benefit the communities they serve, companies can cultivate robust, enduring relationships that underpin long-term success and sustainability.

In essence, integrating social impact into corporate strategy isn’t just a nicety—it’s a business imperative that drives positive change and fosters meaningful connections within and beyond the organization.

Do you give back to the community with your team and work? If so, what does this look like?
Giving back to Community has always been close to my heart. The inspiration struck in 2019 when my inbox flooded with requests for Salesforce mentorship and guidance. I realized the potential to reach a broader audience and thus conceived a plan to give back on a larger scale.

This led to the creation of Cloud-1, a Salesforce Consulting Partner company dedicated to refining professionals embarking on Salesforce careers or transitioning from other tech stacks. Since its inception, Cloud-1 has proudly nurtured 42 certified Trailblazers who are actively contributing to our community.

Additionally, I founded the Trailblazer Community Group in Lahore with the vision of fostering unity and providing support for learning and problem-solving. Within this group, I initiated the Code HERoes program aimed at empowering returning mothers and young women to fulfill their aspirations in Salesforce ecosystem. With the dedicated support of my team at Cloud-1, this mentorship initiative has strengthened our circle of giving back, making it more impactful and fulfilling for all involved.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Never Give Up!

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?
Equal Pay – Ensure pay equity by conducting regular audits to identify and address any gender pay gaps.
Establishing onsite childcare facilities can greatly alleviate the burden on working mothers. By providing a safe and nurturing environment for children within the workplace premises, mothers can focus on their tasks with peace of mind. Companies can also provide Lactation Rooms & Flexible work arrangement for Women.

What advice do you have for women who are just starting their career?
Discover Your Worth. The first step is to understand yourself—your strengths, aspirations, and life goals. Take the time to pinpoint exactly what you want to achieve. There are countless career paths available, but it’s crucial to align them with your dreams.

Discover Your Worth.

Be proactive in seeking out opportunities that resonate with your ambitions. Stay informed and attentive to your field of interest. Embrace learning opportunities and stay focused on honing your skills. Don’t let impostor syndrome derail your progress.

Challenges are inevitable, especially for women in the industry. Whether it’s societal norms, balancing motherhood, or personal struggles, remember to stay resilient. Never underestimate your capabilities—persevere and believe in yourself. You have what it takes to succeed.

What are you looking forward to this year? Are there any goals (personal or professional), activities, or experiences you are excited about?
This year, I’m excited to extend my business operations into the Middle East—a region I’m deeply passionate about. Alongside this endeavor, I’m also dedicated to preparing for the CTA Board Review. I’m putting in the hard work and determination needed to achieve success in both endeavors.

This year marks Pledge 1%’s 10th Anniversary . As part of this milestone, this March, we will celebrate the many accomplishments of women in the Pledge 1% movement as part of #WomenWhoLead , our annual campaign in honor of Women’s History Month.

Our plan is to publish one profile a day throughout the month of March on our blog and social media as a way to celebrate women who are making a difference at work and in their communities. We’d love your help identifying female leaders to profile for this special series!

If you or someone you know is interested in sharing their story, please complete the quick nomination form below Friday, February 14th ️. You are welcome to nominate any female at your organization: they can be a team member, a manager, an investor, a client, or other contact. You are also welcome to nominate yourself! Our team will reach out to the nominees directly with the next steps. 

Help us celebrate this special anniversary by shining a spotlight on the women who inspire us all!

Author: Okta

Okta is a U.S.-based identity and access management company with a vision of accelerating a world where everyone can safely use any technology. Their cloud software solutions allow their customers to enable secure access and seamless experiences for their customers, employees, and partners.

In 2016, the organization joined Pledge 1% and founded their social impact and sustainability initiative, Okta for Good, to solidify their commitment to giving back to global communities. Okta initially pledged to give away 1% of employee time and product, but they decided to add 1% of equity prior to their IPO in April 2017. This was an important step and reminder to investors that Okta for Good was a part of what they were investing in. Strategic grantmaking is then done via the Okta for Good Fund, a donor-advised fund through the Tides Foundation, which enables strategic grantmaking. The Fund distributed $5.48 million in grants in fiscal year 2024, mostly focused on digital equity and tech for good.

The best news? They are just getting started.

Learn how Okta’s equity commitment has set them up for future success in their case study below.

Eva Sifis

Change Maker, By Accident
Melbourne

If you could describe yourself in one word, what would that be and why?
Innovative – I take my reality and shape it.

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 live in society and can not separate ourselves from the impact by using titles or false separation. Evolution lies in communing with community; for the best way to traverse the dark is by holding hands.

Evolution lies in communing with community; for the best way to traverse the dark is by holding hands.

Do you give back to the community with your team and work? If so, what does this look like?
By Accident gives a space where those with brain injury (or experience of trauma) can meet those who truly get it; their peers. This opportunity does more than build skills, it shares recognition and understanding – difficult to justifiably receive when your whole world has changed forever.

In my other position as Project Coordinator for Give A Care Support Services I use my lived experience as disabled to bring projects, programs and opportunities to clients that accord to their needs and realities.

The lived experience of a Peer really is an unacknowledged area of expertise that will only increase in salience and worth in the future.

What are you looking forward to this year? Are there any goals (personal or professional), activities, or experiences you are excited about?
Getting the tv show I am working on to the screen.

It is time others learn about an injury affecting 700,000 Australians and quit the bastardization experienced by most of them.

Madeline Panther

Program Manager, BOP Industries
Brisbane, Australia

If you could describe yourself in one word, what would that be and why?
Warm – I’m a big people person and love making people feel seen and heard. My mum raised me to always “be more interested in others” when partaking in conversations and I owe that narrative to be extensive network today. I care deeply about how others feel when they are around me and always aspire to be a warm, welcoming individual.

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?
Absolutely, I agree wholeheartedly. In today’s business landscape, the concept of corporate social responsibility is not just a trend but a crucial aspect of sustainable and ethical leadership. Prioritizing social impact is essential for several reasons.

Firstly, it aligns businesses with the values of an increasingly conscious consumer base. Consumers today are more socially aware and tend to support companies that actively contribute to positive change. Prioritizing social impact not only enhances a company’s reputation but also fosters customer loyalty.

Secondly, it attracts and retains top talent. Employees, especially Generation Z, seek purpose and meaning in their work. A company that demonstrates a commitment to social impact attracts motivated individuals who want to be part of a broader positive contribution.

Thirdly, it mitigates risks associated with societal and environmental challenges. Companies that integrate social impact into their core strategy are better equipped to navigate issues like climate change, social inequality, and ethical concerns, reducing long-term business risks.

Do you give back to the community with your team and work? If so, what does this look like?
At BOP Industries, we are deeply committed to educational initiatives that empower the next generation of young professionals. Under my leadership as Program Manager we have developed future-focused impactful programs, our own national awards and large-scale events focused on fostering personal growth and career development among students and teachers.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Act confident and no one will question 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?
Understanding and celebrating the inherent distinctions in how women engage with work is pivotal for cultivating an inclusive and high-performing workplace. As women, our innate predispositions give rise to distinctive strengths that significantly enrich the array of skills within the professional sphere. Qualities like meticulous detail orientation, effective communication, and empathetic understanding are just a glimpse of the attributes women bring to the workplace.

What advice do you have for women who are just starting their career?
Embrace the opportunity to evolve your perspective, and don’t be afriad to explore new avenues. The worst-case scenario is that you gain insights into what doesn’t align with your preferences. Don’t hesitate to reconsider your choices and be open to trying new things—each experience, whether a success or a lesson, contributes to your personal and professional growth.

Don’t hesitate to reconsider your choices and be open to trying new things—each experience, whether a success or a lesson, contributes to your personal and professional growth.

What are you looking forward to this year? Are there any goals (personal or professional), activities, or experiences you are excited about?
This year I am increasing my keynote speaking gigs and am very excited to speak on new topics and connecting with new people. I’m also planning my wedding!

Allys Todd

CEO & CoFounder, Val.Ai
Adelaide, Australia

If you could describe yourself in one word, what would that be and why?
Passionate – I have a strong sense of dedication, enthusiasm, and commitment. I am deeply passionate about addressing environmental issues, driving change, and advocating for sustainable solutions. this passion fuels my actions, motivates others to join the movement, and sustains my efforts in the face of challenges and obstacles.

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?
Prioritizing social impact for today’s corporate leaders is essential for enhancing reputation, attracting talent, mitigating risks, driving innovation, and ensuring long-term sustainability, while fulfilling stakeholder expectations and contributing to societal progress.

Do you give back to the community with your team and work? If so, what does this look like?
Impact is in our DNA – Val.Ai pledge 1% for the planet, are a carbon-neutral organization, champion gender equity and inclusion, collaborates with universities and partners with organizations to deliver value.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Don’t let perfect get in the way of possible.

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?
Lead by example, provide flexible work arrangements, invest in career development and increase diverse voices in your decision-making.

Pledge 1% offers guidance for businesses to integrate social responsibility into their strategies, benefiting both their bottom line and the communities they serve.

What advice do you have for women who are just starting their career?
Keep pushing boundaries and challenging norms, the world is ready for your contributions.

What are you looking forward to this year? Are there any goals (personal or professional), activities, or experiences you are excited about?
I am prioritizing nurturing friendships and time spent in nature in 2024.

Keep pushing boundaries and challenging norms, the world is ready for your contributions.

Niki Adams

VP of Solution Engineering, Bounteous
Kansas City, MO

If you could describe yourself in one word, what would that be and why?
Multi-tasker: I am responsible for juggling between being a mom / wife, being in the Air Force Reserves and my day to day job. This requires the ability to ensure all areas have the attention they need while still getting tasks across all other areas completed. Often, this comes with guilt when one area is less focused on until I am able to refocus. It is a hard balance to handle, but it can be done!

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 is important for corporate leaders to prioritize social impact. Bounteous does this by sticking by our beliefs and limiting who we partner or have as Clients if they do not fit into our beliefs and standards.

Do you give back to the community with your team and work? If so, what does this look like?
Bounteous has always supported my military service by providing me with the days off as necessary with zero hassle. (This is not always the case.). Additionally, they always ask where they can support during my time away. In addition to that, Bounteous supports community service days where they allow employees to take time off to dedicate directly to their communities.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
If you are invited to the table, take your seat. Meaning, if you have been invited to a meeting, a conference, a conversation… note that there is a purpose and you deserve to be there. Often times, I hear individuals state they have imposter syndrome and are fearful to speak up with they are “sitting at the table.” It is important to know that if you were invited, you are meant to be there with purpose.

If you are invited to the table, take your seat.

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?
Develop mentorship programs. I always advise that there is ALWAYS someone in the position you want to be at and there is always someone that is the position you were in. Meaning, that we should always be a mentor and we should always have a mentor. It is important to allow for this within an organization. I’ve been approached many times by newer employees or their male managers to ask if I can be their mentor within their oganization. I’ve also worked to always have a mentor.

What advice do you have for women who are just starting their career?
I have so many. One is “Never take no as an answer.” If it is truly something you want, keep trying. Recently, I requested a certain position at my work of which I was told no and it was going to be given to another individual. At first, I took that answer, but after thinking about it realized that I needed to make a case of why I should be selected. I created a presentation with my strategy for the position and why I was the person to be selected. I had my mentor and additional people in leadership review my thoughts to provide feedback. I was prepared and went in to set my case. I ended up be awarded the position. Huge lesson to never give up.

Another one that it represents is that you decide your career path. I have had several members of the team ask me “what does my future hold” and I can only say “You decide what your future holds and I will work to fight with you to get you there.”

What are you looking forward to this year? Are there any goals (personal or professional), activities, or experiences you are excited about?
This year holds a lot of opportunities for our company in terms of where our practice is leading, who we aim to bring in to support these desires and to integrate our global delivery with North America. I am looking forward to seeing the progress of our Salesforce practice and the capabilities we can deliver.