How can carbon finance do more to strengthen rural livelihoods and empower the communities on the frontlines of climate change? Social Impact Pioneers - Anna Kilpatrick, from PUR, Ann Vaughan & Lilian Gwazayo of CARE, and Olaf Westermann, from Catholic Relief Services (CRS) explore this critical question. The conversation, in turn, hears from people implementing carbon finance programmes with a focus on deepening livelihood benefits in countries from around the world, including Mr. Matola Sigele in Malawi; Karimi in Cambodia; Emmanuel and Joshua in Uganda. Together, they unpack how nature-based solutions, carbon markets, and community-led restoration can deliver climate impact rooted in equity and sustainability. The conversation dives into payment for ecosystem services, carbon equity, and the importance of long-term investment in communities that steward forests and farmlands. You will hear how carbon projects are reshaping livelihoods—improving food security, empowering women, and restoring degraded landscapes. And also some of the challenges - in making these programmes work - whether land rights, short-term rewards, or understandable skepticism. This episode offers practical insights for businesses, investors, and NGOs seeking to align carbon finance integrity with inclusive development. Listen now to explore how climate finance can be a cornerstone of sustainable livelihoods—not just a co-benefit. This conversation is hosted by Yvette Torres-Rahman, co-founder of Business Fights Poverty. Social Impact Pioneers: - Anna Kilpatrick, Chief Strategy and Impact Officer at PUR, whose agroforestry projects help global companies decarbonize agricultural supply chains while improving smallholder incomes. - Ann Vaughan, Associate Vice President for Resilient Futures at CARE, leading work to unlock climate finance that reaches 25 million people, especially women and girls. - Olaf Westermann, Senior Technical Advisor on Climate Change and Agriculture at CRS, connecting conservation, livelihoods, and equity in nature-based carbon projects worldwide. - Lilian Gwazayo, Field Advisor, & Environmental Scientist, CARE, Malawi. Links: Redd+ Projects: https://unfccc.int/topics/land-use/workstreams/redd/what-is-redd PUR: https://www.pur.co/ Catholic Relief Services: https://www.crs.org/ Care: Malawi We Staan Nog Steeds: https://www.carenederland.org/verhaal/malawi-we-staan-nog-steeds Care: Malawi: Herstel van groene vegetatie draagt bij aan duurzame toekomst https://www.carenederland.org/nieuws/malawi-het-herstellen-van-groene-vegetatie CARE Malawi LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/care-international-in-malawi/posts/?feedView=all CARE Nederland: https://www.linkedin.com/company/care-nederland/posts/?feedView=all Restore Africa: https://www.evergreening.org/restoreafrica/

In this episode, we meet Social Impact Pioneer Maaria Mozaffar — a legislative attorney, human rights policy strategist, and author of inclusive policy. Maaria’s life work proves that lasting change begins not with slogans, but with courage and conversation. From writing inclusive laws to confronting systemic inequity, Maaria’s journey reveals how anyone — yes, anyone — can participate in reshaping the policies that define our lives. Across today’s headlines, and the headlines of inequality the dehumanisation of communities through policy and enforcement is very much a reality. Maaria joins us to untangle that thread and to ask — what does justice look like when we centre humanity, empathy, and inclusion in our laws? An attorney, mediator, and author, Maaria Mozaffar has been advancing equity since the early 2000s, drafting groundbreaking legislation such as the Inclusive Athletic Attire Act, Faith Behind Bars, and resolutions against cross-cultural bullying and hate crimes. Her legal models have been replicated nationwide, proving that human-centred policymaking is not just possible — it’s powerful. In conversation, Maaria explains that real reform starts with writing the code itself. She shares how individuals — not just elected officials — can influence the legislative process: learning, listening, and mediating to find common ground. “It’s not politics,” she says. “It’s about refusing to allow any community to be dehumanised.” From her early days in law school during 9/11 — when she witnessed civil liberties eroding in real time — to her current work mediating conflicts and drafting inclusive laws, Maaria’s career bridges law and humanity. Through stories of legislation that began at kitchen tables and ended in state law, she offers both moral clarity and practical steps for creating accountability, transparency, and dignity in policy. This is a conversation about courage, systems, and the belief that transformation is possible if we’re willing to engage. So, what does it mean to write laws that protect rather than punish — to legislate with empathy? Join us for this hopeful episode as Maaria Mozaffar shares how to turn disillusionment into action, and how each of us can shape a more just and humane society. Links: Maariamozaffar.com Inclusive Athletic Attire Act: https://www.ilga.gov/Legislation/publicacts/view/102-0051 Faith Behind Bars: https://ilga.gov/Legislation/ILCS/Articles?ActID=4430&ChapterID=55

In this episode of Business Fights Poverty’s Social Impact Pioneers Podcast, host Yvette Torres-Rahman speaks with Åsa Skogström Feldt, Managing Director of IKEA Social Entrepreneurship BV, about how business can be a force for good. Recorded live during the UN General Assembly 2025 in New York, this powerful conversation explores how IKEA is partnering with social entrepreneurs worldwide to create inclusive growth, fight inequality, and build sustainable livelihoods. Åsa Skogström Feldt leads IKEA Social Entrepreneurship, a company within the Inter IKEA Group that invests in partnerships and accelerator programs supporting over 100 social enterprises each year. From empowering refugees and artisans to transforming circular waste systems in India, IKEA is proving that business-led social innovation can tackle the root causes of poverty while driving long-term sustainability. Åsa brings a blend of corporate leadership and non-profit innovation, having previously served as Global President and CEO of The Hunger Project in New York and Sweden. Her career spans major roles at Sony Ericsson, Aspiro, and Ericsson Mobile Communications, alongside decades of activism championing women’s empowerment. Together, Yvette and Åsa discuss how to bridge the worlds of philanthropy and business, scale social impact, and harness the power of AI, circularity, and social innovation to build a more inclusive economy. Discover how IKEA’s approach—through impact investing, mentoring, and global collaboration—is redefining what it means to be a responsible business. Tune in to hear how Åsa Skogström Feldt and IKEA are proving that “it’s good business to be a good business.”

In this episode, we sit down with Social Impact Pioneer, social entrepreneur and purposeful leader - Amrit Dhaliwal. As CEO of Walfinch, one of the UK’s leading home care franchise networks, Amrit is on a mission to redefine both franchising and social care—bringing innovation, purpose, and people-first values into sectors too often driven solely by margins. Tune in for an introduction to leading with purpose—both for people and for businesses. If you’re ready to discover what it takes to be a truly values-driven leader, this is where to start. From transforming an Italian deli into an award-winning restaurant to founding Walfinch in 2019, Amrit’s entrepreneurial journey is rooted in spotting inefficiencies and building better systems. Today, under his leadership, Walfinch is rapidly expanding and on course to become a £20 million network, with multiple franchisees expected to reach £1 million turnover within their first three years. His success, however, is not measured by profit alone. Amrit is committed to blending commercial growth with meaningful social impact, ensuring older adults receive exceptional care while franchisees thrive. In a wide-ranging conversation, Amrit shares his philosophy on values-based leadership, the importance of instilling company culture at every level, and why business success is inseparable from purpose. Drawing on influences such as Daniel Pink’s Drive, John Maxwell’s Five Levels of Leadership, and Gino Wickman’s Traction, he offers practical insights into scaling a purpose-led business in a regulated industry. We also explore the pressing challenges facing the UK’s care system, the balance between profit and purpose, and how leaders can resist the pressure for growth-at-all-costs by staying true to their vision. Whether you are an aspiring entrepreneur, a franchisee, or simply curious about the future of social care, this conversation offers timely lessons on resilience, strategy, and building businesses that last. Join us as Amrit Dhaliwal explains why redefining home care is not just a business model but a social mission—one that could shape the future of care in Britain and beyond. Links: Walfinch: https://walfinch.com Amrit's book - Time to Thrive: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Time-Thrive-Revolution-solution-insider/dp/1068664304 John Maxwell - 5 Levels of Leadership: https://youtu.be/jsjlJCOzmhk Gena Wickman – Traction: https://youtu.be/4MdB3tIzhmc EOS Entrepreneur Operating System: https://youtu.be/NNyY7k8uXLE Daniel Pink – Drive: https://www.danpink.com/books/drive/ And if you liked this conversation, please take a listen to: Combining Personal and Business Purpose with Hamzah Sarwar: https://businessfightspoverty.org/combining-personal-and-business-purpose-with-hamzah-sarwar/

Listen to this podcast conversation to learn about The Power of Participatory Radio. Social Impact Pioneers - Meshack Kitungu Kawinzi and Hannah Davis share how one of the world’s oldest and most trusted communication tools, radio, is being harnessed to change lives and strengthen communities. From the rolling tea fields of Kenya to smallholder farms across Africa, Asia and Latin America, participatory radio is reaching people often left behind in the digital revolution, offering knowledge, voice, and agency in their own languages. Meshack and Hannah have dedicated their careers to amplifying the voices of farmers, women, and workers who are rarely heard, yet who are central to the fight for gender equity, climate resilience, and sustainable livelihoods. Meshack Kawinzi is a visionary educator and health informatics specialist with more than two decades in global development. He has led transformative initiatives such as Farmers’ Voice Radio and HERProject, directly benefiting over half a million smallholder farmers and workers across East Africa. Today, alongside lecturing and policy advocacy, he continues to shape development practice through research, mentoring, and digital innovation. Hannah Davis is a passionate advocate for sustainable agriculture and ethical trade. Over the past 20 years, she has worked with smallholder farmers worldwide—supporting cooperatives, advancing gender justice, and co-creating the Farmers’ Voice Radio methodology at the Lorna Young Foundation. This approach is now used in 15 countries, reaching more than two million farmers with vital, practical knowledge. Together, Meshack and Hannah show us how radio is not just about broadcasting messages—but about handing farmers the microphone. From breaking down gender barriers to sparking community-led solutions, Farmers’ Voice Radio proves that participatory radio is more than a programme: it is a movement of empowerment, resilience, and connection. So whether you are working to engage people on social issues or looking for a dose of inspirational and uplift – this conversation is for you. Links: Meshack Kawinzi bio https://www.linkedin.com/in/meshack-kawinzi-6ab43b65/ Hannah Davis bio https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannah-davis-472a8628/ Farmers' Voice Radio: https://www.farmersvoiceradio.org/ Farmers' Voice Radio resource hub: https://www.farmersvoiceradio.org/resources National Organisation of Peer Educators (NOPE): https://www.facebook.com/nopeafrica/ (sadly NOPE's website https://nope.or.ke is no longer operational as the organisation has undergone significant cutbacks due to the loss of USAID funding earlier this year) Twinings Sourced with Care programme: https://sourcedwithcare.com/ FCDO Work and Opportunities for Women programme: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/work-and-opportunities-for-women WOW/Twinings partnership project summary: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/work-and-opportunities-for-women-programme-project-profile-twinings-partnership/work-and-opportunities-for-women-project-profile-twinings-partnership The HERproject streams mentioned by Meshack have since evolved and expanded into RISE, an international coalition focused on embedding gender equality at scale across global garment, footwear, and home textiles supply chains: https://riseequal.org/ World Radio Alliance: https://www.worldradioalliance.com/ Statistic about listenership comes form 2019 Deloitte report: https://www.deloitte.com/in/en/about/press-room/deloitte-global-tmt-predictions-2019.html And if you enjoyed this conversation, please take a listen to: Why Business Resilience is the New Social Impact, with Nyika Brain: https://businessfightspoverty.org/why-business-resilience-is-the-new-social-impact-with-nyika-brain/

The Future of Climate Action: Youth Leadership and Systems Change In this episode of Social Impact Pioneers, we explore how the next generation is reshaping climate action, social innovation and systems change—not by waiting their turn, but by leading from the front. Meet Social Impact Pioneers: Penelope Gregoriou and Muhammad Hassan Dajana. Penelope and Hassan are both World Economic Forum Global Shapers and join this conversation to share insights and experiences from Cyprus and Pakistan respectively. Penelope is a sustainability strategist and ESG expert with a sharp focus on climate finance, sustainability reporting and transformative systems change. An alumni of the UN SDG Innovator programme and a member of the World Benchmarking Alliance, she combines technical rigour with a deep commitment to centring humanity in climate policy. Hassan is a Fulbright Scholar and edtech entrepreneur scaling climate education across Pakistan. His projects—spotlighted by the UN and World Economic Forum—range from planting 10,000+ trees in urban heat zones to pioneering “green masjids” that embed environmental stewardship within religious teaching. His mission is bold: to empower 100 million learners to engage with climate justice. Together, they explore a grassroots leadership that is bold, collaborative and global in its reach. From rethinking how we measure impact to driving climate adaptation through community-led solutions, Penelope and Hassan share practical insights into how young innovators are disrupting silos, bridging sectors, and transforming moral urgency into policy reality. Listeners will discover: • How youth-led climate solutions are scaling from the ground up. • Why grassroots leadership is central to tackling systemic inaction. • How collaboration across business, civil society and government is shaping a more resilient future. If you’re searching for fresh thinking on leadership, collaboration and systems change, this conversation is essential listening. Social Impact Pioneers—where the changemakers of today shape the world of tomorrow. Links: • Muhammad Hassan Dajana on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hassandajana/ • Penelope Gregoriou on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/penelope-gregoriou/ • The Global Shapers Community: globalshapers.org • World Economic Forum: Leveraging green, blue and social infrastructure for disaster recovery and preparedness: https://www.weforum.org/stories/2025/06/leveraging-green-blue-and-social-infrastructure-for-disaster-recovery-and-preparedness/ • World Benchmarking Alliance: https://www.worldbenchmarkingalliance.org And if you liked this episode, take a listen to: Business-NGO Partnerships for Social Impact, With Diageo and Care: https://businessfightspoverty.org/business-ngo-partnerships-for-social-impact-with-diageo-and-care/

Welcome to Social Impact Pioneers, where we spotlight change makers redefining the future of business and society. In this episode, we’re joined by Mark Horoszowski, Co-founder and CEO of MovingWorlds, and Alam Bains, Head of Corporate Programs & Partnerships at MovingWorlds. Together they are empowering social innovation, unlocking the reasons why people might take action, enhancing social entrepreneurs and taking volunteering to another level. Mark and Alam are at the forefront of transforming corporate volunteering into a powerful engine for global impact. MovingWorlds is a global platform helping social enterprises access critical skills and knowledge—while enabling professionals to grow through purpose-driven projects. Through careful matching, two way support is helping to drive personal and social impact. With over $52 million in pro bono support across 110+ countries already given, they’re proving that purpose and profit can go hand in hand. What’s particularly interesting about this conversation is Mark and Alam’s work looking at why people might want to take action or get involved. They share their latest research that looks at designing behaviour-centred interventions – unlocking the understanding from social sciences to scale social innovation. Take a look at the resource links to find out more. Together we explore: • How social enterprises and corporate professionals are co-creating change • Why purpose-driven partnerships outperform transactional giving • What future-ready leadership looks like • How to better understand people to enable behaviour change. Whether you're a business leader seeking to align impact with innovation, a social entrepreneur scaling solutions, or a professional eager to find purpose in your career—this conversation is full of real stories, practical insights, and transformative ideas. Links: Moving Worlds: https://movingworlds.org Moving Worlds and SAP: https://movingworlds.org/partner/sap/ Moving Worlds and their work on the reasons why people volunteer or take action: https://blog.movingworlds.org/5-volunteering-personas-csr/ Moving Worlds’ training programme on behaviour change for impact: https://movingworlds.org/social-sciences-to-scale-social-innovation-dan-ariely-general If you enjoyed this episode, please do take a listen to Financial Inclusion & Women Entrepreneurs with Nguyet and Tanvi: https://businessfightspoverty.org/driving-financial-inclusion-womens-entrepreneurship-with-nguyet-and-tanvi/

From Boardrooms to Base of the Pyramid – Stefan Engels on Reimagining Development Through Business. Meet Stefan Engels, an international development leader with a remarkable cross-sector journey—from corporate boardrooms to grassroots innovation hubs across Africa. Now based in Nairobi, Stefan brings nearly two decades of experience working at the nexus of private sector development, inclusive business models, and entrepreneurial ecosystems. Stefan’s career began in the corporate world of pharmaceuticals - with Johnson & Johnson, where he rose from Sales Representative to Regional General Manager over 15 years. But he made a bold pivot—leaving behind corporate predictability to pursue purpose-driven work in international development. His career spans time with UNDP, GAIN (Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition), and multiple foundations and NGOs across Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Mozambique, and Vietnam. In this episode, Stefan shares his insights on transitioning from the private sector to global development—navigating cultural shifts, embracing multi-stakeholder partnerships, and building resilient, systemic solutions for complex challenges. We explore the seismic shifts in development aid, the growing role of business in achieving social impact, and the enduring power of inclusive business strategies. Expect to hear: * Why business can (and must) be a force for good * Lessons in systems change and co-creation * The future of development finance and impact measurement * Advice for businesses building social impact into their core model Whether you're a business leader seeking to deepen your social impact strategy, a development practitioner, or simply curious about how capitalism can align with sustainable development goals (SDGs)—you might find this interesting. Listen now and discover how profits can fit poverty and why Africa may just be the future’s innovation lab.

If you are looking for a bit of purpose-led leadership inspiration and personal development – take a listen. Sustainability and social impact leader Nyika Brain, joins the Social Impact Pioneers podcast to share her experiences in global supply chains, delivering impact through business and explains why resilience is the new social impact and could be the way to navigate CSR and ESG challenges. Born in Malawi and shaped by her experiences across the Global South, Nyika offers a unique, real-world perspective on how business can — and must — be a force for good. From leading ESG at MM Flowers (a major supplier to UK retailers like M&S) to strategic roles at the bank Barclays and the supermarket Waitrose, she brings deep insights into how to embed impact into core business strategy. Nyika is a trustee of The One Foundation and John Lewis Foundation, and a key voice in the Business Fights Poverty Global Expert Network. Her philosophy? “Social risk is business risk. Managing this risk builds resilience – it’s fundamental to core business and social impact.” In this episode, we explore: 🔹 Why resilience is the most important lens for social impact in 2025 🔹 What businesses often get wrong about supply chain risk — and how to fix it 🔹 The power of genuine partnerships, good governance, and listening to communities 🔹 How to lead through complexity, build coalitions, and make long-term impact stick 🔹 Why personal resilience is essential for every social impact leader Whether you're in ESG, procurement, philanthropy, or just figuring out how to lead with purpose — this episode is packed with practical advice and hard-won wisdom. Nyika’s grounded, global voice is one every purpose-driven professional needs to hear right now. Links: Business Fights Poverty and Five Bridges to take social impact forward: https://businessfightspoverty.org/five-bridges-to-2045-how-business-can-deliver-a-fairer-more-resilient-world/ Business-NGO Partnerships for Social Impact, With Diageo and Care - https://businessfightspoverty.org/business-ngo-partnerships-for-social-impact-with-diageo-and-care/ Business Fights Poverty AI powered social impact data finder: https://businessfightspoverty.org/insight-navigator/

In this episode, we welcome Social Impact Pioneer Josh Wheeler — founder of Be Broadcast, award-winning broadcast PR strategist, and one of the UK’s leading voices on reshaping how we talk about climate change and how to move the conversation from climate fear, stalling and inaction, to something everyone can take positive action on. Josh joins us to dive into Be Broadcast’s latest data-driven report, Mission Control: The Climate Conversation, which analysed over 45,000 radio and TV segments across the UK. The findings are eye-opening: climate change is dramatically underrepresented compared to entertainment events like the Oscars, and when it does make headlines, the framing is overwhelmingly alarmist — think “ticking time bomb” and “disaster waiting to happen.” But what does this mean for the public’s understanding, emotional response, and willingness to act? Josh explains why our current approach to climate storytelling often alienates the very people we need to engage: the “movable middle.” He explores how brands, campaigners, and communicators can break through media fatigue and craft narratives that inspire hope, clarity, and meaningful action — without slipping into despair or denial. This isn’t just a climate story. It’s a media story. Josh pulls back the curtain on why climate coverage fades so quickly once the floods subside or the political drama ends, and what we can do to keep this vital conversation alive long-term. Whether you work in PR, journalism, public policy — or are simply someone who cares about the future of the planet — this episode will give you fresh insight and practical tools to help shift the narrative. Ready to challenge the headlines and reimagine climate storytelling? Don’t miss this powerful conversation with Josh Wheeler. 🌍 Links: 📊 Get the full report at: bebroadcast.co.uk/mission-control 🎧 Hear more on climate action here: https://businessfightspoverty.org/business-ngo-partnerships-for-social-impact-with-diageo-and-care/

What are the real-world impacts of inclusive economic development, gender equity, and the transformative power of entrepreneurship? Social Impact Pioneers Nguyet Tran Thi Minh in Vietnam and Tanvi Jaluka in California. Nguyet is CARE Vietnam’s Women’s Entrepreneurship and Financial Inclusion Manager. She leads the Strive Women program—a collaborative initiative with the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth that supports women-led micro and small enterprises in Vietnam. With years of private sector experience and a deep understanding of local financial systems, she shares insights into the barriers Vietnamese women entrepreneurs face, including access to finance, caregiving responsibilities, and limited digital literacy. Whilst Tanvi is CARE USA’s Research Lead. Her work spans over a decade in global gender and development. Tanvi is passionate about the importance of impact evaluations, holistic measurement tools, and research that centres women’s voices. Together, they highlight the need to move beyond traditional business metrics and understand indicators like confidence, control, and quality of life for women in emerging markets. Expect to hear insights financial health, business resilience, digital tools, caregiving responsibilities, and the real needs of women entrepreneurs. We'll hear why measuring confidence and control matters, how ecosystem collaboration can close inclusion gaps, and what businesses and donors can do to meaningfully support women’s economic empowerment. Whether you work in social impact, financial services, or care about unlocking the potential of entrepreneurs this episode is packed with insight, real-world research, and action-driven solutions to support women entrepreneurs globally. 🎧 Listen now to learn how empowering women in business isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s smart economics. Links: CGD, Gender Equity: https://www.cgdev.org/topics/gender-equality Poverty Action: Financial Inclusion: https://poverty-action.org/financial-inclusion Care: Women’s entrepreneurship: https://www.care.org/our-work/economic-growth/womens-entrepreneurship/ Mastercard and Care, Stive Women: https://www.care.org/our-work/economic-growth/womens-entrepreneurship/strive-women/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nguyet-tran-8976ab127/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tjaluka/ Women Entrepreneurship Support Ecosystem Newsletter sign up: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdkAv3LNgs2HzEN945gzpEjHIF8Indaat-Ebl2gkrDyfmT8Xg/viewform

How can businesses and their partners design programmes to tackle multiple societal issues whilst making economic sense? Listen in to this conversation between Social Impact Pioneers: Amanda Smith, Global Head of Social Impact at Diageo; Amayaa Wijesinghe, Climate and Resilience Advisor at CARE International UK; and Thomas Ongogo, Program Manager at CARE International Kenya – as they explore how businesses and NGOs can work together to simultaneously tackle climate, gender, and economic challenges. This conversation was recorded during the Business Fights Poverty Global Equity Summit 2025. During which, Diageo and CARE International shared honest insights from their collaboration with smallholder farmers, grounding the discussion in their latest case study and practical experiences. Together their discussion highlights five actionable insights: 1. Integrate Social, Environmental & Economic Goals – Achieve holistic, long-term impact by designing programs that empower women, promote climate resilience, and build local economies. 2. Build Local Ownership – Strengthen communities by investing in local leadership and gender-inclusive initiatives like VSLAs. 3. Secure Multi-Year Funding – Ensure sustainable outcomes by advocating for long-term financial commitments that allow for deeper, systemic change. 4. Pool Resources for Collective Impact – Leverage cross-sector collaboration to drive scalable, innovative solutions. 5. Embrace Digital Solutions – Use tech to extend agricultural knowledge, improve productivity, and reinforce value chain resilience. Tune in to explore how aligning social and environmental goals can deliver measurable business value while creating lasting impact on the ground. Listen now to learn how purposeful partnerships can power inclusive, sustainable development. Links: Business Fights Poverty Global Equity Summit 2025, including further resources from this and many other sessions: https://businessfightspoverty.org/global-equity-summit/#Highlights Business Fights Poverty (2024). Business, Social Impact and Inclusivity with Amanda Smith. [podcast] Available at: https://businessfightspoverty.org/ business-social-impact-and-inclusivity-with-amanda-smith Diageo (2025). Helping our smallholder farmers tackle the impacts of climate change and gender inequality. [online] Available at: https://www.diageo. com/en/news-and-media/stories/2025/helping-our-smallholder-farmers-tackle-the-impacts-of-climate-change-and-gender-inequality YouTube (2024). Business, Social Impact and Inclusivity with Amanda Smith. [video online] Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CRmdJt-CAgs

How can technology, in this case mobile technology help people in hard-to-reach places and can it ever make our world fairer? These are two questions our Social Impact Pioneer this week grapples with daily. In this episode of the Business Fights Poverty podcast series – Social Impact Pioneers, we sit down with Max Cuvellier Giacomelli, Head of Mobile for Development at the GSMA, the global industry body uniting over 750 mobile operators and 400 tech companies. Max leads one of the most impactful teams in the world—Mobile for Development (M4D)—which has reached over 220 million people in low- and middle-income countries through mobile innovation. Max shares how the GSMA’s initiatives drive digital inclusion, financial empowerment, climate resilience, and gender equality, particularly through its Connected Women campaign and mobile money ecosystems. He unpacks how mobile connectivity is closing the mobile gender gap, with targeted programs helping over 80 million women access mobile internet and financial services, and how GSMA-supported startups like Crop2Cash are using AI to empower African farmers. We also explore the usage gap—the 3.1 billion people who live within network coverage but remain offline—and what’s being done to tackle digital barriers. Max highlights the GSMA’s push for commercially sustainable innovation, its AI Innovation Fund, and why ‘dumb AI’ built for real-world conditions in Africa may hold the key to inclusive tech. Whether you're passionate about tech for good, sustainable development, startup ecosystems, or bridging the digital divide, this conversation is packed with insights on how to scale impact through smart, inclusive partnerships between the private and public sectors. Tune in to hear how GSMA is helping build a more equitable digital future—and why the road to socio-economic transformation runs through mobile. Links: Links: Max Cuvellier: https://www.gsma.com/solutions-and-impact/connectivity-for-good/mobile-for-development/gsma_people/max-cuvellier-giacomelli/ GSMA Mobile for Development (“M4D”) : https://www.gsma.com/solutions-and-impact/connectivity-for-good/mobile-for-development/ GSMA, #AccelerateAction: Our latest data shows progress in closing the mobile internet gender gap has stalled: https://www.gsma.com/solutions-and-impact/connectivity-for-good/mobile-for-development/blog/accelerateaction-our-latest-data-shows-progress-in-closing-the-mobile-internet-gender-gap-has-stalled/ GSMA: AI for Africa: Use cases delivering impact: : https://www.gsma.com/solutions-and-impact/connectivity-for-good/mobile-for-development/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/AI-for-Africa-Use-cases-delivering-impact.pdf GSMA; Breaking Barriers: How we can close the Usage Gap: https://www.gsma.com/breakingbarriers/#:~:text=Only%204%25%20of%20the%20global,affects%203.1%20billion%20people%20globally. GSMA: Ensuring food security by solving the agricultural information gap: https://www.gsma.com/solutions-and-impact/connectivity-for-good/mobile-for-development/blog/ensuring-food-security-by-solving-the-agricultural-information-gap/ GSMA: ClimateTech Horizons https://www.gsma.com/solutions-and-impact/connectivity-for-good/mobile-for-development/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/GSMA_ClimateTech_Horizons_2025.pdf

Work should be the most reliable path out of poverty. But for many, low wages, job insecurity, bureaucratic red tape, and the benefits cliff create barriers to financial stability. Social Impact Pioneers Megan Spurgeon and Scott C. Miller are transforming economic empowerment by revolutionising workforce development and breaking systemic cycles of poverty in the U.S Megan Spurgeon is the Director of Empower Upper Cumberland, a collective impact initiative dedicated to creating sustainable workforce and human services solutions in Tennessee. With a strong background in higher education, workforce development, and community action, Megan is a key player in aligning economic, social, and workforce initiatives for lasting change. Scott C. Miller, founder of Circles USA and president of The Poverty Solution, has been a national leader in poverty alleviation for over 40 years. He has helped communities raise over $200 million to support families in achieving long-term economic independence. His groundbreaking Poverty Alleviation System (PAS) - germinated from collaborations with the Walmart Foundation and Keurig — is a comprehensive framework that supports individuals in fully escaping poverty and contributes to reducing poverty rates at scale.is replacing outdated poverty management models with innovative, results-driven solutions. During this podcast conversation Megan and Scott explore: ✔️ The Shift from Poverty Management to True Poverty Alleviation – Why current systems fail and how to implement real change. ✔️ Collaboration for Impact – How businesses, nonprofits, and policymakers must work together for sustainable results. ✔️ Breaking the Cycle of Poverty – The biggest challenges and innovative solutions shaping the future. ✔️ The Role of Employers & Policy in Economic Empowerment – How businesses can support workforce development and retain talent. So whether you are working to address poverty, curious about the programmes supporting workforce development or simply in need of some positivity – Megan and Scott are your people. Links: • Scott Miller - https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottcmillerprofile/ • Megan Spurgeon - www.linkedin.com/in/megankellyspurgeon • The Poverty Solution: https://www.thepovertysolution.com/ • Empower UC - https://empoweruppercumberland.org/ • Annual Report - https://empoweruppercumberland.org/news-and-events/prosperity-press/ • TANF Opportunity Act - https://www.tn.gov/humanservices/tanf-opportunity-act.html • UCHRA - https://uchra.org/

How do you scale support for smallholder farmers, in hard to reach locations, harvesting a slow maturing crop? Social Impact Pioneer Christina Mawuse Gyisun, Co-Founder of Sommalife, joins us to talk about the shea industry in West Africa and how she and her team are increasing market access, and securing the future of an industry, by better supporting female smallholder farmers. Though women shea nut farmers provide a crucial raw ingredient to the $430 billion beauty industry, many live in extreme poverty, struggle with limited access to markets, and face the devastating impacts of climate change. Sommalifeis changing the game with a bespoke tech platform that digitizes operations, connects farmers to buyers, and empowers them as environmental stewards. The Problem: Systemic Exclusion & Environmental Threats In West Africa, 60 million women smallholder farmers depend on raw commodities like shea nuts for survival. Yet, these farmers are often left out of formal markets, limited to selling their crop for low prices. Meanwhile, the shea tree—a lifeline for many communities—is at risk due to deforestation and vulnerable to climate change. In Ghana alone, 90% of charcoal production comes from shea trees, threatening both economic livelihoods and biodiversity. The Solution: Technology, Traceability & Market Access Sommalife has developed a bespoke digital platform to connect farmers directly to international buyers, ensuring fair prices and financial stability. Since 2020, the enterprise has: ✅ Digitised operations for 110,000 farmers ✅ Increased income by 23% for 40,000 women ✅ Protected 1,500+ acres of shea trees By leveraging AI and traceability technology, Sommalife enables ethical sourcing, ensuring that farmers benefit from global sustainability initiatives. This innovation aligns with the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CS3D), which mandates supply chain transparency. Call to Action: Investing in Social Impact To scale this success, funding, collaboration, and corporate partnerships are crucial. Companies and investors looking to create real change can support ethical sourcing initiatives that protect the environment while improving livelihoods. As a Schwab Foundation Social Entrepreneur of 2025, Mawuse is proving that sustainable business can be profitable and impactful. Will your organisation be part of this movement? Links FAO: West African agriculture and climate change (includes Percentage of West Africans who depend on agriculture): https://www.fao.org/family-farming/detail/en/c/413652/#:~:text=Agriculture%20is%20vital%20to%20livelihoods,gross%20domestic%20product%20(GDP). USAID: Sustainable Shea Butter Initiative, Fact Sheet (16 million shea producer network): https://www.usaid.gov/west-africa-regional/fact-sheet/sustainable-shea-initiative#:~:text=Demand%20for%20shea%20produced%20in,collecting%20and%20processing%20shea%20kernels. Karibon: Shea butter as cocoa butter equivalent: https://delivery.bunge.com/-/media/Files/00-Confectionery-Brochures/11-Coberine-Shea/Folder_Karibon.ashx Sommalife: https://sommalife.com/ Sommalife Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sommalife/ Sommalife Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sommalife/?viewAsMember=true Sommalike Medium: https://sommalife.medium.com/ Mawuse's Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mawuse-christina-gyisun-772758123/ Mawuse's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mawusegyisun/ Schwab Foundation Awards 2025: https://www.weforum.org/press/2025/01/schwab-foundation-awards-2025-new-social-entrepreneurs-and-innovators-of-the-year-announced/ & https://www.schwabfound.org/2025-awardees

Listen in to explore how microentrepreneurs can be the catalyst for economic growth, the systemic shifts needed to empower them, and the emerging trends shaping their future. Social Impact Pioneers - Werner Wallner, Managing Director of the Hilti Foundation; Amalia Johnsson, CEO of Hand in Hand International; and Payal Dalal, Executive Vice President of Global Programmes at the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth join us to share their wisdom. With decades of experience in financial inclusion, entrepreneurship acceleration, and economic development, they bring invaluable insights into how small businesses can transform lives—and entire economies. Why Microbusinesses Matter Microbusinesses make up 90% of global enterprises and contribute to over 50% of global GDP. In Kenya alone, 50% of working-age adults are informal entrepreneurs living below the poverty line. Strategic investment in this sector could boost national GDP by as much as 60%. Hand in Hand’s acceleration programmes—which offer advanced business training, credit access, and robust market linkages—have already increased participant incomes by 140%, often placing them among the country’s top 15% of earners. But despite their enormous potential, micro-entrepreneurs remain the most underserved economic players, especially women. This episode delves into how we can change that. Delivering System-Level Change Transforming microenterprise growth isn’t about isolated interventions—it requires systemic change. Our guests discuss how governments, financial institutions, and NGOs must coordinate efforts to unlock the full potential of micro-entrepreneurs. From broadening financial access to redefining women’s role in entrepreneurship, this conversation underscores the urgency of moving beyond ‘entrepreneurs by necessity’ and recognising them as economic powerhouses. Werner shares how financial inclusion initiatives have enabled thousands of women to build credit histories, access financing, and achieve long-term business growth. Meanwhile, Amalia highlights how tailored sectoral support for rural entrepreneurs is proving just as effective as urban interventions. Emerging Trends: AI, Cybersecurity, and Digitalisation The future of small business success hinges on emerging technologies. Payal discusses the game-changing potential of Generative AI, which is already enhancing financial coaching and unlocking new digital financing opportunities for small businesses. However, the shift to digitalisation also brings new threats—cybersecurity risks are escalating, and over 50% of small businesses that suffer a cyberattack fail financially. Our guests stress the need for proactive measures to protect entrepreneurs in the digital economy while ensuring technology remains an enabler, not a barrier. Whether you're a policymaker, an investor, an NGO leader, or simply passionate about economic empowerment, this episode is packed with actionable insights and bold strategies. Links: Mastercard, Center for Inclusive Growth: https://www.mastercardcenter.org Hand in Hand International: https://www.handinhandinternational.org Hilti Foundation: https://www.hiltifoundation.org Democratizing data analytics and AI to level the playing field for small businesses: https://www.mastercardcenter.org/insights/article/democratizing-data-analytics-and-ai-to-level-the-playing-field-for-small-businesses Hand in Hand: From informal entrepreneur to MSME owner: Making enterprise acceleration work for underserved women https://www.handinhandinternational.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/From-informal-entrepreneur-to-MSME-owner-acceleration-learning-report.pdf

Dive deep into the transformative world of social work, with Social Impact Pioneer, Peter Buturo. As Peter champions the vital force social work offers to strengthen communities, combat poverty, and champion justice. Peter is a seasoned social worker actively engaged in the field. During this conversation hear Peter’s inspiring journey into social work, sparked by personal tragedy and fuelled by a deep-seated desire to make a real difference in people’s lives. At the age of 16, Peter suffered the loss of his mother, uncle and grandparents. This devastation led him to reach crisis point as he battled with suicide. At the age of 17, Peter navigated life without parents in the UK. Fast forward to 2011 and Peter graduates from Birmingham City University as a qualified social worker. In our discussion, we address how and why social workers played such an important part in his own journey. Peter explains why he believes social workers continue to be critical in early intervention, the importance of family environment in child development, and the often misunderstood aspects of social work amidst public scrutiny. Peter emphasises the necessity of empathy and collaboration across societal sectors to foster real change. This episode not only sheds light on the day-to-day realities of social workers but also delves into broader societal issues like domestic violence and the systemic challenges that professionals face in safeguarding the welfare of children and families. Stay tuned as we uncover effective strategies for improving social systems and hear firsthand from someone who's not only in the trenches but also looking ahead to the future of social care. Whether you're a fellow social worker, involved in policy, or simply interested in contributing to a more just society, this episode promises profound insights and compelling discussions. Links: Peter's work: https://bold-leap.com/ Peters's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peterbuturo Peter's book, Social Work and Beyond: How to be a conscious social work entrepreneur: https://amzn.eu/d/1vL81YL

How can we measure impact and outcomes from social programmes that work for business? Our Social Impact Pioneer today believes that ESG initiatives need a unified impact measurement scale – impact per dollar. Meet Gilad Tanay, Founder and Chairperson of the ERI Institute. “Impact per Dollar gives investors a tangible percentage figure or impact unit of a particular initiative, i.e. how many people lifted from poverty per $10k invested.” Says Gilad. Gilad founded the ERI - which stands for the Effective Research for Impact – and that is what they do. ERI is a pioneering research organisation dedicated to identifying and maximising “Impact per Dollar” in philanthropy, ESG investing, with business and global development initiatives. With a background spanning academia and high-impact consulting, Gilad’s work has informed strategies for governments, major NGOs, and philanthropic funds worldwide. Before establishing ERI, Gilad co-founded and served as a director of Academics Stand Against Poverty (ASAP) and lectured on the Global Justice Programme at Yale University. Recognised for his insights on global inequality and poverty alleviation (including a TEDx talk at Yale – see below for links), Gilad left a traditional academic career to solve tangible, high-stakes problems. His approach centres on creating unified, evidence-based impact measurement frameworks—tools that empower investors, companies, and donors to truly understand the return on their social investments. In this conversation, we’ll unpack why the current ESG landscape often fails to deliver systemic change, and how “impact per dollar” can revolutionise social impact. Gilad discusses how unified metrics—similar to a financial ROI—let funders identify which initiatives genuinely lift communities out of poverty. He highlights the importance of direct cash transfers, skill-building programs, and fair labour practices to break the poverty trap, emphasising that businesses can become powerful agents of change when they address root causes rather than apply superficial fixes. Get ready for a thought-provoking dialogue on aligning profits with purpose, the urgent need for standardised impact metrics, and how the business sector can seize its unique position to tackle the world’s most devastating poverty-related diseases and inequalities. If you’ve ever wondered how to make social impact capital more transformative, this episode is your roadmap to higher-impact social investments. Links: • ERI Institute - https://eri-institute.com/about-2/ • Gilad’s TedX - https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=hchXtBPSAZ4 • Gilad Tanay’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gilad-tanay-798b8a/ • 14 million people die a year from poverty-related diseases - https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/noncommunicable-diseases • ERI Institute Unified / Systemic impact per dollar method - https://eri-institute.com/impact-per-dollar/ • Robber Baron mentality – business zero-sum game & Adam Smith liberal democracy - https://www.economist.com/interactive/essay/2024/10/31/when-politics-is-about-hating-the-other-side-democracy-suffers • Additional link - https://www.economist.com/leaders/2024/11/21/the-opportunities-and-dangers-for-trumps-disrupter-in-chief

Social Impact Pioneers Antoinette Marie, Director of Heifer Labs, and Sander de Jong, Managing Director of Fairfood talk blockchain, supplychains and food. Antoinette is a trailblazer in digital transformation and humanitarian development, whilst Sander is a serial social entrepreneur with a passion for food. In this episode, we delve into the heart of social entrepreneurship and its pivotal role in reshaping global food systems. Sander shares how he came to create of the Dutch Weed Burger—a venture that began in the early 2010s and continues to redefine the plant-based food market with its innovative use of seaweed. Sander is now the managing director at Fairfood. At Fairfood he is at the forefront of shaping a digitally connected, transparent food sector with prosperous small-scale farmers. As we explore his journey, we'll also delve into the broader implications of such entrepreneurial ventures on global food systems. Sander exemplifies how personal backgrounds, familial entrepreneurship, and a deep-seated desire for change can drive someone to reinvent their career path for the greater good. At the same time Sander uncovers the challenges and opportunities technology provides for supply chain transparency and to deepen societal impact. This is where Antoinette comes in - Antoinette is championing technology-driven solutions to empower smallholder farmers. With a focus on bridging the digital divide and driving sustainable practices across agricultural supply chainsWith the recently released white paper from Heifer International and Fairfood International outlining a strategy to help suppliers and companies ensure farmers in commodity supply chains receive sustainable, living incomes. The link to the paper is below and expect to find details of two open-source methodologies for determining actual production costs and efficiency for more transparent pricing and sustainability. One such methodology is blockchain. Together Antoinette and Sander share their insights on the developments in blockchain to enhance transparency and traceability from farm to fork. The vision is to shed light for consumers on the origins of their food, and support farmers in achieving a living income, thereby fostering a fair and sustainable agricultural sector. Join us as Antoinette and Sander provide insights into the challenges and opportunities that come with integrating cutting-edge technologies in the fight against rural poverty. Whether you are an aspiring social entrepreneur, a professional in the tech industry, or simply someone passionate about making a difference, this episode is packed with valuable lessons and inspiring stories. Links: The Dutch Weed burger: https://dutchweedburger.com/en/ Fairfood: https://fairfood.org/en/ Heifer: White Paper: Commodity Living Income Strategy: A Data-Forward Living Income Strategy for Commodity Supply Chains: https://www.heifer.org/about-us/media-center/press-releases/heifer-international-and-fairfood-international-release-commodity-living-income-strategy-white-paper.html Fruitpunch AI challenge: https://www.fruitpunch.ai/challenges Sander de Jong’s Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanderdejong/ Antoinette Marie’s Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amarie/

Welcome to this episode of the Social Impact Pioneer podcast, where we explore the intersection of business and social good through transformative partnerships. Social Impact Pioneers - Taryn Davis, the Senior Director of Strategic Partnerships and Stakeholder Relations at Cargill and Chris Noble, Associate Vice President of Corporate Partnerships at CARE discuss what makes the long-term partnership between their organisations work. In this episode, we will dive deep into Cargill's longstanding partnership with CARE, a global organisation dedicated to alleviating poverty and empowering women. Together, they have reached over 4.6 million people across 13 countries, focusing on improving agricultural productivity and ensuring food security. Listen in as Taryn and Chris share insights on the innovative programs, like farmer field schools, that have transformed lives, especially for women in farming communities. Chris and Taryn explore how strategic partnerships between businesses and not-for-profit organisations unlock opportunities for communities to strengthen their resilience to stresses and shocks - especially in today's rapidly changing global environment. They emphasis why organisations that collaborate can leverage respective resources, expertise, and influence to create more substantial and sustainable outcomes. Their insights aim to help businesses and organisations form partnerships that will lead to long-lasting, impactful results for community resilience initiatives. Join the conversation and discuss the importance of co-creation, trust, and data-driven strategies in building resilient partnerships that can withstand global challenges, such as climate change and economic crises. Whether you're a business leader, nonprofit professional, or simply interested in how strategic collaborations can make a difference, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiring stories. Tune in and be inspired by the powerful impact of partnership in creating lasting change. Links: Cargill & Care (2020). Building Transformational Partnerships. Business Fights Poverty white paper. Available at: https://www.cargill.com/doc/1432128057778/cargill-care-business-fights-poverty-white-paper-pdf.pdf Impartner (2023). Data-Driven Partner Behaviors: How to Drive the Greatest Results. Available at: https://impartner.com/resources/blog/data-driven-partner-behaviors San Francisco Fed (2023). Community Resilience and Adaptive Capacity: A Meaningful Investment Across Assets. Retrieved from https://www.frbsf.org Castañeda, A. (2021). Rightly done, PPPs can be the right tool for green and resilient infrastructure. World Bank Blogs. Available at: https://blogs.worldbank.org/en/ppps/rightly-done-ppps-can-be-right-tool-green-and-resilient-infrastructure The conversation took place as part of the Business Fights Poverty Global Goals Summit 2024: https://businessfightspoverty.org/global-goals-summits