Steffi Kromer

Founder, EMPAUA GmbH
Zurich, Switzerland

If you could describe yourself in one word, what would that be and why?
Efficient! I like to constantly improve processes for our business and our customers, as well as for me personally.

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. With organizations, we have the power and ability to reach many more people and to have a bigger impact than one individual alone. I strongly believe that any organization should have a big focus on giving back. We also need to understand that we, in my opinion, are very privileged to be leaders in companies, and with that privilege should come a sense of responsibility for society, climate and the world.

Do you give back to the community with your team and work? If so, what does this look like?
We are a company that is very open to supporting others in various ways.

In the last years, we for example did internal auctions and donated the raised funds to families in Ukraine, we supported local Covid aid groups, and every employee gets an allowance to donate for their company anniversary and birthday each year.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Always trust your gut, but keep listening to others.

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?
Make your salaries transparent to your employees!

Like that you can ensure you are paying fair and equal salaries. In recruitment, create a skill-based assessment which is checked before the first interview to ensure no bias is present.

What advice do you have for women who are just starting their career?
Get a female mentor, someone who has been there and done that. Also always support other women, right from the start. But please – also be supportive of men. You always receive what you give in life.

What are you looking forward to this year? Are there any goals (personal or professional), activities, or experiences you are excited about?
I have very exciting travel plans for this year to which I am very much looking forward to. Also professionally I am planning to face myself with some challenges, which I hope will help me grow personally and in business as well.

Always trust your gut, but keep listening to others.

Jaime Krone

Founder & CEO, The Life Lesson Center LLC
Germantown, USA

If you could describe yourself in one word, what would that be and why?
I describe myself as indomitable. Even though I endured many hardships over my lifespan, I still accomplished every goal, I live the life I desire, and I create my destiny. I have just enough grit and rebellion to move me forward, regardless of any obstacle.

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 think it is important for corporate leaders to recognize that their employees, and their needs, are the priority. If employees are treated fairly and respectfully, that is the greatest social impact.

Do you give back to the community with your team and work? If so, what does this look like?
My team is very small; however, we create a free monthly newsletter for anyone who wants to read it. It includes a relevant topic and helpful energy and supportive tea interventions. Additionally, I provide free field supervision for social work students.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
If you want something that doesn’t exist for you, create 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 to inspire inclusion, it is important to recognize personal beliefs that aid in the idea that someone else is unequal. If we look at others as equal to us, and genuinely believe and invest in the idea, there would not be a challenge. If we devalue others and deem them unequal, that is a soul issue that the beholder must work through; policy will not change that.

If we devalue others and deem them unequal, that is a soul issue that the beholder must work through; policy will not change that.

What advice do you have for women who are just starting their career?
Beware of your belief system, invest in grace and compassion for yourself and others, and your success is your responsibility.

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 building more miniature shoppes, traveling, and being challenged to see others in the way they desire.

Toast is a cloud-based, all-in-one digital technology platform purpose-built for the entire restaurant community. In 2019, Toast launched its social impact arm, Toast.org, with the purpose of enriching the food experience for all and creating a healthier, more sustainable, and equitable world.

They joined the Pledge 1% movement in 2021 to further activate their philanthropy, people, and product towards this mission. This resulted in the Changemaker Product Suite, which is available to Toast customers for free with the goal of empowering restaurants to be local community hubs. Through this program, Toast has partnered with local organizations on accelerating the development and implementation of scalable food waste solutions, among other things.

In addition, Toast created an innovative three-month rotational program for employees from the R&D team to join the social impact team and see how Toast’s product is impacting customers. This is helping them get internal buy-in all while leveraging the best of their team talent and time to have an impact.

Learn more about how Toast is putting its philanthropy, people, and product pledge to action in the case study below.

Giulia Acchioni Mena

Co-founder and COO, ZIM Connections
London, United Kingdom

If you could describe yourself in one word, what would that be and why?
Curious, because my personal and professional journey is driven by a deep desire to learn, explore, and understand new cultures, technologies, and ideas, which fuels my passion for ZIM.

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 believe it’s crucial for today’s corporate leaders to prioritize social impact. In an era where the lines between societal challenges and business opportunities are increasingly blurred, leveraging a platform like Pledge 1% not only fosters a culture of giving back but also aligns a company’s success with the well-being of the broader community. This approach ensures businesses contribute positively to society, driving change and sustainability through their operations. It’s about recognizing that long-term success is intricately linked to the health of the environment we operate in and the communities we serve.

By prioritizing social impact, companies can create a ripple effect, inspiring others to follow suit, thereby amplifying the potential for positive change in the world.

Do you give back to the community with your team and work? If so, what does this look like?
Yes, giving back to the community is at the heart of what we do at ZIM. Our commitment to social responsibility is woven into our business practices, particularly through initiatives that promote digital inclusion and environmental sustainability.

By leveraging our eSIM technology, we not only offer a more sustainable solution by significantly reducing plastic use but also ensure broader access to communication services for underserved communities. Moreover, our dedication extends beyond environmental efforts to embodying true global citizenship. We’ve embraced diversity and inclusivity by employing people from all over the world.

A testament to this commitment is our endeavor to assist an employee from Syria. Facing severe conditions in his homeland, he sought a better future for his family. Recognizing the value he could bring to our team and the difference we could make in his life, we navigated the complex visa process, especially as a Startup, to welcome him and his family to London. Now, two years later, he continues to be a vital part of the ZIM family, exemplifying our belief in the power of technology to not just connect people, but to change lives.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

The best piece of advice I’ve ever received is to “embrace your unique journey and trust the process.” This personal guidance has been a beacon through the ups and downs of entrepreneurship, reminding me that each challenge and success is a step towards realizing our vision at ZIM. It taught me the importance of patience, resilience, and faith in my path, encouraging me to stay true to our mission, even when faced with uncertainty.

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?
To foster more equitable and inclusive workplaces for women, businesses can actively invest in gender diversity initiatives that go beyond surface-level commitments. This involves setting measurable diversity goals and holding leadership accountable for achieving them.

Encouraging a work environment that promotes work-life balance through flexible working hours and remote work options can significantly benefit women, especially those managing family and career responsibilities. Additionally, creating women’s networks within the organization can provide valuable support, mentorship, and advocacy opportunities. These networks empower women to share experiences, challenges, and strategies for success, enhancing their professional growth and visibility in the company. By implementing these concrete actions, companies can make significant strides toward creating a more inclusive and equitable workplace for women.

What advice do you have for women who are just starting their career?
For women just beginning their careers, my advice is to cultivate a strong sense of self-confidence and assertiveness.

Believe in your abilities and value, and don’t be afraid to voice your opinions and ideas. Seek out mentors and allies who support your growth and can provide guidance based on their experiences. Networking is also crucial; build relationships within your industry and beyond, as these connections can open doors to opportunities and offer invaluable support.

Additionally, be open to learning and adapting—your early career is a time for exploration and skill-building. Embrace challenges as opportunities to grow and define your path. Lastly, remember to advocate for yourself, whether it’s in negotiations for salary, roles, or new projects. Knowing your worth and asking for what you deserve is fundamental in building a fulfilling career.

Believe in your abilities and value, and don’t be afraid to voice your opinions and ideas.

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 particularly excited about the journey ahead for ZIM.

I look forward to seeing how our company will evolve, the new challenges we’ll navigate, and the successes that will shape our path. The potential for growth and innovation within ZIM fuels my enthusiasm for the future, as we aim to further disrupt the travel connectivity sector and enhance our offerings.

On a personal level, I aspire to travel more, exploring new cultures and perspectives that can enrich both our business and my personal life. Achieving a healthier work-life balance is also a key goal for me; I believe in the importance of nurturing personal well-being to sustain creativity and drive in professional endeavors.

Justworks is a technology company that levels the playing field for all small businesses. To formalize their commitment to social impact, Justworks joined the Pledge 1% movement as a Builder in 2021, committing to donating 1% of their assets, including company equity, to the community.

Key to their success has been fostering cross-functional collaboration when designing their impact programs. For example, the social impact team has worked closely with the marketing team on the development and growth of Justworks.org and the Spring Forward Fund. This has allowed for more internal collaboration and has been instrumental in amplifying the mission and vision of these programs.

Justworks also believes in the power of engaging its employees in its grant-making process by inviting team members to review grant applications and vote for the finalists. This enables Justworks to hear diverse voices and perspectives about the projects being pitched, and to get team members across the organization more involved in their social impact program.

Justworks also prioritizes getting feedback from the grantees they support. This helps them iterate and improve their programs to ensure they are maximizing their impact. This includes frequently meeting with grantees and creating spaces to build trust amongst their partners.

Read more about how Justworks is having an impact in their case study below.

Trishunda A. Mooney

Founder/CEO, 4th Moon Productions
Alpharetta, USA

If you could describe yourself in one word, what would that be and why?
Hopeful! Growing up in rural Alabama, just below the poverty line, the 4th child of six, who was diagnosed at three years old with the most severe form of sickle cell disease (SS), I’ve strongly leaned on hope to keep moving.

My parents did a great job doing all they could to provide for us in so many ways. They embedded within each of us the importance of family and thinking outside of the box. Though we were not given everything we asked for, I remained hopeful they would find a way to deliver something even better and they never let me down. When I was diagnosed with this blood disorder, my parents also received the news that I was not expected to live beyond eight years old.

As far back as I can remember, I’ve turned to the hope of tomorrow, the next moment, the next year of achieving even more than what was being presented to me at the time. If I saw something that was contrary to what I was experiencing, I was hopeful I would too have the opportunity to show myself how my life is not limited to my circumstances.

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?
100%! There is something we are all passionate about, something we’ve all uniquely gone through that we could lend our voices and platform to bring awareness and education. In doing so, we bridge gaps in humanity…helping others who are currently experiencing something you’ve been through feel as though they are not alone. And even more so, you are an example of that circumstance not dictating your entire life.

Do you give back to the community with your team and work? If so, what does this look like?

Yes we do. Currently, 4th Moon Productions is producing an animated short film to bring awareness and education in support of the sickle cell community worldwide. Though the subject matter embedded within this project is sickle cell disease (SCD), we are determined to share it in a way that anyone diagnosed with any sickness, disease, and/or disability will find themselves in the story and be inspired to live beyond.

As the leader of 4th Moon Productions and producer of this project I feel more education and awareness is needed in support of bridging that gap where others with SCD, those fighting to make healthcare less discriminatory and accessible, family members and caregivers providing day-to-day care, or parents receiving the news of their child(ren) diagnosis feel the topic of sickle cell disease is apart of the conversations for change socially, politically, economically and globally.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
It is as you believe.

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?
First, understand how bringing “women” to the table of discussion about change is already inclusive. But to further that notion, “women” is made up of some uniquely talented, skillful, wise, strong, loving, passionate, diverse human beings who are all different in their own way.

Today’s workplaces should focus on each woman they have on the their team and meet them where they are. All women are not the same just as all men are not the same. Workplaces should begin implementing the flexibility of a more person-centered work environment where each team member feels heard, respected, and appreciated for their contributions to the goal(s) of the company without compromising the overall value of the company’s mission and vision.

What advice do you have for women who are just starting their career?
Move in your purpose. We were all created to leave something for the next generation…so, move in it. Everyday, in all you do…be the light and don’t be afraid to shine!

Move in your purpose.

What are you looking forward to this year? Are there any goals (personal or professional), activities, or experiences you are excited about?
Forever hopeful! Personal goals, getting married and having a child. Professional goals, producing my first animated short film and globally bring the sickle cell disease community to the table of discussions and change.

Zsuzsanna Recsey

CEO, Standing on Giants
London, UK

If you could describe yourself in one word, what would that be and why?
If I had to describe myself in one word that would be related to coaching and it most probably would be “Empowering.”

To me, coaching is fundamentally about helping individuals reach their potential and enhance their performance on their own terms. This involves facilitating their learning process, rather than merely teaching them. The most gratifying moments for me are witnessing those breakthroughs where individuals realise something pivotal, quite often sparking profound change. As a certified coach, I’ve had the privilege of facilitating these discoveries with my clients. Moreover, as a leader, I integrate this empowering approach into my daily business interactions, fostering a learning and growth environment.

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?
The real question isn’t whether corporate leaders should prioritize social impact, but why they wouldn’t. Our latest B Corp recertification, which saw a 14-point improvement even as our business significantly expanded, demonstrates how combining social impact with business success is not just feasible but also advantageous. Emphasizing People, Planet, and Profit together proves to be not only possible but genuinely rewarding.

During a team discussion about a client’s shift to complex scoring models for measuring objectives, I asked the team how they felt about this challenging change, half-expecting frustration. However, a community engagement manager shared a perspective that truly embodies our ethos. Despite her lack of full understanding of the new system, she was unwavering in her commitment. “I will continue to prioritize our members, focusing on meaningful engagement. The metrics will align as a result of our genuine efforts,” she stated. The team’s full endorsement of her viewpoint was both affirming and inspiring.

Do you give back to the community with your team and work? If so, what does this look like?
We are fortunate to have the opportunity to build and nurture communities through our core business activities, where we assist companies in engaging with their customers in meaningful ways. In addition to this, we are committed to making a positive impact by providing financial support to carefully selected causes on a consistent and structured basis. A portion of the fees from our largest financial transactions is dedicated to chosen charities (through a B Corp partner).

Our efforts are also tailored to support issues that resonate with our diverse team and areas where we believe our unique skills can have the greatest effect.

For instance, in response to the crisis in Ukraine, our contribution extended beyond merely collecting and matching donations to charities aiding refugees. Leveraging the rich linguistic capabilities within our team, we were offering translation services during work hours, as part of an official program, to further support the cause. This initiative is a good example how we can utilize our specific talents for a significant impact.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I’ve ever received unfolded around the dinner table, where two of my father’s friends shared differing views on my next steps: pursuing a Master’s degree after my Bachelor’s or starting my career immediately. I chose further education, a decision my parents wholeheartedly supported. This path wasn’t just about accumulating knowledge; it was an investment in my future. Through additional degrees and various qualifications, I gained not only expertise but also invaluable experiences and opportunities that lead to a rewarding and successful 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?
I would pick two initiatives, through which companies can make the workplace more welcoming and supportive for women of all ages.

Flexible work and support for younger women. Understanding that younger women often balance work with caregiving or parenting, it’s important to offer flexible work options like remote work, flexible hours, or part-time roles. Additionally, creating supportive policies is crucial. This means things like longer parental leave, help with childcare, and options for emergency situations. For instance, a company could help cover some childcare costs or work with local childcare centers to offer discounts to employees.

Support for women experiencing menopause. For employees going through menopause, being able to work flexibly is really helpful. But there’s more that can be done, like educating everyone in the workplace about menopause. This includes teaching male employees and managers what menopause is about so they can be more understanding.

Workshops or information sessions can be set up to share knowledge about menopause and how it affects women, along with ways to support colleagues going through it. Creating an environment where everyone knows and respects what women experiencing menopause are going through makes the workplace better for everyone.

What advice do you have for women who are just starting their career?
Surround yourself with mentors, sponsors, and peers who encourage and guide you. Look for role models who inspire you and can offer practical advice from their experiences.

Learn to advocate for yourself; whether it’s negotiating your salary, asking for a promotion, or seeking opportunities for growth. Understand your worth and don’t shy away from pursuing what you deserve. And one more, as you climb the career ladder, don’t forget to support other women along their journey.

Understand your worth and don’t shy away from pursuing what you deserve.

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 about wrapping up our strategic plan that aligns with our core purpose for the upcoming three years, especially after successfully achieving the goals of our previous three-year plan, which included both business and social impacts.

Looking ahead, we aim to continue our sustainable growth and broaden our social impact to reach even more stakeholders. At the same time, we’re focused on enhancing employee participation in decision-making and shaping the future direction of our company.

On a personal note, one of the highlights for me this year will be attending some of the events at the Paris Olympics with my son.

Jayne Warrilow

Founder & CEO, Sacred Changemakers

Columbus, Ohio

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

Curious – I don’t settle for the way things are and am always looking to evolve and improve, I tend to disrupt the status quo.

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. This is key to my work at Sacred Changemakers, after working a consultant/coach for over 30 years I realized my impact has been to make a lot of white people even richer, that had to change.

Business is the biggest lever for change we have, we must shift our perspective beyond profit. This is my legacy work, I’m dedicating the rest of my career to this message.

Do you give back to the community with your team and work? If so, what does this look like?

Yes, we partner with B1G1 to support many projects worldwide aligned with the UN SDG’s. We also support Pachamama Alliance and last year I travelled to Ecuador to live with 2 different Indigenous Nations to see first hand the damage being done to the Amazon Rainforest. It was life changing and has doubled our efforts to helping more business leaders understand the problems and helping them to make changes, beyond merely having a CSR department – over there and not integrated into the organizational culture.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

“The people who are the hardest to love are the ones who need it most.” This is a great reminder when doing this work and coming up against sexism and bias in my work. It’s helped me so much over the years to stay compassionate when powerful men especially, can be so rude!

“The people who are the hardest to love are the ones who need it most.”

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?

Continue shattering the glass ceiling. Dismantle the patriarchy. Create equality. We are still so far away from where we need to be. Raise awareness and change culture one conversation at a time.

What advice do you have for women who are just starting their career?

Do your own inner work to find your true purpose. Get to know yourself first. Then find a career and organization where you can express what matters most to you fully. If you find yourself in a job where you can’t bring yourself to work, for whatever reason, leave – your health and wellbeing are more important than you might think.

In your 20s take jobs that give you the experience you need to be ready for an amazing role in your 30s forget about the money…

What are you looking forward to this year? Are there any goals (personal or professional), activities, or experiences you are excited about?

We redesigning and evolving our podcast and community to bring even more value to our Sacred Changemakers. We’re also investigating B-Corp status and considering running our own conference in 2025 to lead the conversation that matters most.

Carol Ganz

VP of Client Success, Six Feet Up
Fishers, United States

If you could describe yourself in one word, what would that be and why?
In one word, I am persistent. This quality has been crucial in my journey from entering the tech world 15 years ago to leading client success at Six Feet Up. Our company’s 25-year history of strong, respectful partnerships reflects this persistence. I believe in bringing out the best in our team and clients, creating an environment where everyone feels valued and heard. This has helped build lasting relationships and a supportive, diverse workplace.

My commitment extends beyond work, influencing community involvement and family life, underscoring the importance of persistence in every aspect of life.

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 is imperative. It’s about creating a sustainable world and a work culture driven by purpose. Specifically, Six Feet Up is committed to completing projects that not only advance technology but significantly benefit humanity.

By committing to social impact, companies not only contribute to societal betterment but also inspire innovation and loyalty among employees.

Do you give back to the community with your team and work? If so, what does this look like?
Giving back is woven into the fabric of Six Feet Up’s culture. We aim to inspire others by collaborating with like-minded companies on projects that impact the world.

Our 10-year goal has been to complete 10 IMPACTFUL Projects™ — defined as impressive, purposeful, and transformative — by 2025. As of today, Six Feet Up has had the privilege to work on 9 IMPACTFUL Projects™ ranging from space exploration to lightning strike predictions, forest fire management, genetic engineering, battery energy storage, agriculture data accessibility, and carbon emissions reduction. We are well on our way to achieving (and surpassing) this goal.

Additionally, joining the Pledge 1% movement and the company’s engagement with the open source community reflect its dedication to making a positive impact beyond the realm of technology. For the past decade, I have served on the board for various non-profit organizations including the Plone Foundation, Django Events Foundation North America  (DEFNA) and Women & High Tech. These roles allow me not just to contribute but also to witness firsthand the transformative power of collaborative efforts in technology and diversity.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
“Be yourself and embrace your unique skills.” This piece of advice has been a beacon throughout my career. At Six Feet Up, we encourage each team member to embrace their inherent strengths. This philosophy has not only fostered a diverse and inclusive environment but has also been instrumental in our ability to innovate and meet the complex needs of our clients with authenticity and precision.

           “Be yourself and embrace your unique skills.”

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?
Making today’s workplaces more equitable and inclusive requires active and intentional efforts. Organizations must actively listen to and amplify women’s voices, ensuring their representation in leadership roles and decision-making processes.

At Six Feet Up, a woman-owned software company that values a blend of emotional and intellectual intelligence, we strive to ensure that every voice is heard and valued. Personally, as the mother of a trans son, I deeply understand the importance of equity and inclusion. The journey for equality doesn’t stop with us; industry-wide, we must normalize mentorship, challenge conventional hiring practices, and foster environments where women, and all employees, feel empowered to contribute and excel.

What advice do you have for women who are just starting their career?
To women embarking on their careers: Seek out mentors, never hesitate to ask questions, and boldly pursue opportunities, even if you don’t meet every listed requirement.

Embrace your unique perspectives and experiences—they are invaluable assets. At Six Feet Up, we believe that diverse viewpoints fuel innovation. We actively support this through active involvement in organizations like Women & High Tech which exists to change the landscape of women represented in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) to be equally inclusive to all.

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 poised to be a landmark for Six Feet Up which celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2024. Professionally, I’m excited about achieving our goal of completing 10 IMPACTFUL Projects™ by 2025 and setting new benchmarks — like contributing to 100 IMPACTFUL Projects™ by 2033.

I’m also excited about Six Feet Up’s broader industry recognition as a top Innovation Service Partner of the Year at the Mira Awards, the Oscars of Tech in Indiana.

On a personal level, I am focused on nurturing our client relationships, driving our mission forward, and supporting my team in their growth and success. Beyond professional goals, I am committed to finding a healthier work-life balance, learning to ‘switch off’ and investing time in personal well-being and family.