Ceri Griffiths
Founder, Willow Brook Lifestyle Financial Planning
Virtual/remote
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?
At its core, prioritising social impact is about doing the right thing. It’s a reflection of a basic human principle: caring for others and supporting those less fortunate. In a world marked by significant inequalities and environmental challenges, the role of businesses in society extends far beyond generating profits. We have the resources, reach, and influence to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives and the health of the planet.
When companies commit to social responsibility, they demonstrate that success is not solely measured by financial achievements but also by the positive changes they bring to the world. This approach fosters a culture of kindness, empathy, and support, values that are crucial in today’s society. It’s about leading by example, showing that it’s possible to be both successful and ethical, and encouraging others — from individuals to other businesses — to contribute to societal well-being.
Moreover, being a role model in this way has a ripple effect. It inspires employees, customers, and other stakeholders to take action themselves, whether through volunteering, philanthropy, or making more socially responsible decisions in their personal and professional lives. This collective action can lead to significant societal change.
Do you give back to the community with your team and work? If so, what does this look like?
Yes, we support via B1G1, which provides us with a Platform for Good and structure which allows us to create ‘when this …then this’ processes directly into our business.
For example, when a new client joins us then an automatic donation is made on their behalf (in that instance to provide 365 days of access of clothing for girls rescued from sex trafficking in India).
Birthdays, Christmas and key milestones are all linked to different causes. As well as thank you for referrals.
It means every day we can show up and do good for others with ease, and with confidence that they are benefiting from the full value of the donations.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
To notice the glimmers in life. Many of us are increasingly aware of our triggers, and understanding those and what causes them is such a healing way to move forward. But don’t forget the glimmers. The moments in life that make your heart sing – and be sure to repeat them, notice them, be grateful for them. The more you do this, the better life truly gets.
To notice the glimmers in life.
What advice do you have for women who are just starting their career?
Don’t be scared to talk about money. We have huge money silence in our culture. Know that it is absolutely ok to ask what your peers are paid and to ask what other levels are paid. Knowledge is vital – knowing the worth of your role is key. Also – pay as much as you can as soon as you can into your pension. This is a gift to your future self, the money you can put in during the early years has such a huge impact due to the years it has to grow. It is a gamechanger!!!
What are you looking forward to this year? Are there any goals (personal or professional), activities, or experiences you are excited about?
Our commitment has always been to ensure every client feels seen and heard, particularly during the challenging times of divorce. We’re proud of the support system we’ve built, recognised for its understanding and responsiveness. Now, we’re excited to build on this strong foundation with some new initiatives that promise to take our service to the next level.
Starting with an expert-led in-person client focus group this month, we’re deepening the dialogue with our clients. This isn’t about reinventing the wheel; it’s about adding layers to our already robust support, ensuring we’re as in tune with our clients’ needs as possible.
Then, by rolling out a larger virtual focus group, we’re widening the net to capture a broader range of insights, making sure no voice goes unheard. This effort to gather more feedback is about refining what we do, ensuring our support is not just reactive but proactive, perfectly aligned with what our clients really need.
With these steps, plus targeted feedback from solicitors, we’re on a path to make our good service great, enhancing how we support every woman who turns to us. It’s about recognising what works, improving where we can, and always striving to be the best in our field.
Sam Rad
Futurist & Anthropologist, Radical Next
New York, NY
If you could describe yourself in one word, what would that be and why?
Curious. For as long as I can remember, I have been driven by my curiosity and eagerness to learn through experience. I call myself a “student of humanity” for this reason. I am an anthropologist who has lived in the most remote jungles and farthest reaches of the internet’s virtual communities; nn ex-professional skydiver who learned to fly, then jump out of planes — out of an interest for physics; a storyteller who found herself subject to a documentary tv series, more than one.
I live life fully present and immersed, which shapes my viewpoint of the future.
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’ve built 4 successful technology companies, written 2 books, and helped invent some of the most impactful technologies of this century — and what is the one thing that has driven me?
Was it money? No. Recognition? No. It’s purpose.
I consider myself of service to humanity and my particular role is educating leaders on stages and other channels as what I call a “metamedia storyteller.” I share stories that shape a positive future. And in that respect, everything I do prioritizes social impact. If not, what else are we all doing here as human beings?
Do you give back to the community with your team and work? If so, what does this look like?
For every speech I give or business I help get off the ground I donate my time pro-bono to projects shaping the future. I’ve traveled around the world empowering folks with technology knowledge, communication strategies, and more importantly, learning from them as teachers so we can more directly integrate our global shared experiences. Last year, I lived in remote villages deep in the Amazon (Peru and Brazil) working towards new models of rainforest regeneration and economic development.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Keep shining your light. Shine bright and radiate radically. Because your light will be needed in the darkest of places.
That’s not always easy, but if you know you are living your purpose and mission, you will have the strength to forge ahead.
So what’s the mantra I live by?
BE AUTHENTIC. Once you align to your authenticity, share your beautiful unique light and gifts with the world to make an impact where it’s needed most. Leave your ego at the door.
Once you align to your authenticity, share your beautiful unique light and gifts with the world to make an impact where it’s needed 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?
1 Compensate women accordingly.
2 Fund female founders.
3 Hold space for different forms of thinking — for example creative or radial thinking versus logical or deductive reasoning.
What advice do you have for women who are just starting their career?
The left brain (logic) and right brain (creativity) are skills needed to navigate this world.
For much of human history, our societies have valued the very “masculine” energetic approach to logic and reason, while discounting creativity and emotion.
In the Age of Acceleration, characterized by AI, quantum computing, spatial computing, and beyond — where our very logic and reason is in question — the most important skills are our human intuition, creativity, and empathy. These are historically considered “feminine” skills (not to gender this concept, it’s just from a spiritual or historical perspective). So I thought, let the “experts” lead here in this age. Women, it’s your time to shine. Lead with the strength of your creative, flowy, intuition.
What are you looking forward to this year? Are there any goals (personal or professional), activities, or experiences you are excited about?
I am releasing my next book, Radical Next: Self and Society in the Age of Acceleration in the Fall of 2024.
I’ll be traveling the world sharing stories of radical transformation on 6 continents (maybe 7… and let’s aim for Space too?!). I have a few video and documentary projects in pre-production that I’m excited about. And overall, continuing my work to guide people through times of radical and accelerating change.
Dr. Allessandria Polizzi, SPHR
CEO / Founder, Verdant Consulting
Sharon, MA
If you could describe yourself in one word, what would that be and why?
Abundant – Starting my own company with a focus on an area that is personally important to me has shown me the breadth of my creativity and ability to make connections for others. People will often comment on how much our company has accomplished and created during the last ~3 years, all of which came from me.
However, what really reflects this is HOW I have grown my business. I believe in leading from an abundance mindset, so when I decided to add an affiliate network to the business in order to scale, it never crossed my mind to charge people. Rather, I focused on finding those underrepresented in the market and offered them the ability to deliver our programs via a reasonable revenue share with no financial investment. This means anything our company creates is available to our affiliates to help them grow their businesses. These partnerships are critical to improving mental health at work, and together, we will create a world where work doesn’t hurt.
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! The communities in which organizations exist influence business performance, culture, engagement, retention, and innovation. We can’t ignore what happens outside of work, as it deeply influences the workplace.
Do you give back to the community with your team and work? If so, what does this look like?
As I mentioned above, we offer our affiliate program for free. If someone is passionate about creating healthier workplaces and can facilitate quality sessions, we work with them to add our programs to their portfolio, as well as provide guidance on growing their business.
One example is a local woman who focuses on DEIB and providing equity audits for organizations. She integrated our resiliency training into her programs, and we taught her how to leverage state training grants to help companies fund her work. Win-Win-Win.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
What we focus on expands.
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?
If we could teach every girl how to practice self-coaching instead of self-criticism, we could change the world. Having worked with 100s of girls through scouting, I have seen the transition girls make as they enter puberty and begin to absorb the pressures and biases of the world around them. Teaching girls self-advocacy and the power of self-compassion can change how their brains develop and create new pathways for their future.
What advice do you have for women who are just starting their career?
See above. Be kind to yourself and practice self-compassion. You will not lose your edge if you speak to yourself with care. Too often, we say things to ourselves we would never say to anyone else. Speaking to ourselves as we would a loved one, making sure we are ok, and taking moments to self-reflect has been scientifically proven to improve our wellbeing and our ability to work with others.
Be kind to yourself and practice self-compassion.
What are you looking forward to this year? Are there any goals (personal or professional), activities, or experiences you are excited about?
Continuing to raise awareness with organizations that #workshouldnthurt and that creating healthy workplaces is good business.
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.
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.
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.