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.

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.

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!

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.