In this inspiring episode of Leading Lights, Raakhi Shah, CEO of The Circle, shares how small acts of solidarity can create global waves of change. Drawing on her experience leading the feminist organisation founded by Annie Lennox, Raakhi talks about the power of women supporting women and her vision of truly global feminism.
From her early career in international development to her leadership today, Raakhi reflects on what it takes to stay hopeful, lead fairly, and keep “the circle growing” in a world that can often feel divided. She reminds us that true progress happens when we bridge the gap between those who have power and those whose voices aren’t yet heard.
“When you support one woman, the circle grows bigger - that’s how change ripples out.”
It’s a conversation about courage, connection, and collective impact - a call to rethink what leadership looks like when empathy leads the way.
Links:
Follow Raakhi on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/raakhi-shah-8628b24a/
Find out more about The Circle:
Instagram - @thecirclengo
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-circle-of-women
Or at www.thecircle.ngo/
Learn more about bell hooks: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bell_hooks
About Raakhi Shah
Raakhi has over 20 years of experience in international development having previously worked at UNICEF UK and Oxfam NGO covering fundraising, communications, advocacy and campaign initiatives. She has worked with high-level supporters to lobby for change at the G8, G20, Downing Street and African Union, and has led over 30 field visits including to Bangladesh, Lebanon, Jordan, Philippines, Pakistan, India, Malawi and more, bringing the voices of those with lived experience to the forefront. Raakhi was, until recently, a trustee for Reclaim, a youth leadership organisation supporting working class young people in the UK.
About The Circle
The Circle is a global feminist organisation, co-founded by Annie Lennox and other leading women. The organisation stands in solidarity and action with marginalised women and girls confronting gender-based violence and economic inequality across the world.
The growing backlash to gender equality alongside global funding cuts are having a devastating impact on millions of women and girls. To challenge this, The Circle funds, advocates for and amplifies women-led organisations around the world. Their grassroots partners deliver vital services that combat violence against women, promote economic justice, and uphold women’s rights.
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