Zahid Torres-Rahman is the co-Founder and CEO of Business Fights Poverty. This conversation looks at ways that we can harness the power of collaboration to drive social impact. 

During this podcast you hear the very personal journey of Zahid – why being born in Pakistan, growing up in the UK and now living in Spain with mixed heritage drives him to create connections as part of his core purpose.

You will hear why Business Fights Poverty is a BCorp, what a clear social mission means and where the organisation is likely to be going in the future. From creating effective collaboration, tapping into collective insight and creating intentional spaces to forge trust. 

The Business Fights Poverty is a global community of people and organisations passionate about building an equitable and resilient future. On a mission to unlock the power of business to help improve the lives, livelihoods and learning opportunities for the most vulnerable people and communities. Everyone is welcome to be a part of the 30,000 strong community – it is open and free to join. 

Zahid here is talking to the Sungkyunkwan University in South Korea. He is in conversation with Magdalena Seol, part of the Department of Political Science and Diplomacy.
 
Link: https://businessfightspoverty.org

Business Fights Poverty

Zahid Torres Rahman, Founder, Business Fights Poverty

How can civil society hold businesses and governments to account? This podcast examines the role of NGO advocacy and activism in pushing for better social and environmental outcomes.

Chelsea Hodgkins is a Policy Advisor on Oxfam America’s Climate, Energy, and Extractive Industries team. She joins us for this conversation having recently been to the climate conference, COP27 in Egypt. During this podcast Chelsea looks specifically at the role of different sectors and how the freedom of speech is essential to improve energy security and access, before providing practical advice on how to deliver a ‘just transition’ and why the Loss and Damage Fund is an important ray of hope. Chelsea implores us: “Movements really matter.”

With Chelsea’s expertise in extractives and energy – she talks in detail about the differing forms of energy; how governments and businesses are pursuing their climate policies – sometimes to the detriment of vulnerable people and the climate; whilst demanding more investment be made in renewable energy sources across the world. Chelsea talks frankly on the question: “How can our energy transition respect human rights?” Chelsea cites the “dramatic increase in demand for minerals used for solar panels, electric vehicles and battery storage” is a key area we need to ensure vulnerable and Indigenous People are not forgotten during the rush to mine critical minerals in the clean energy transition. 

This podcast conversation is not necessarily an easy listen. Chelsea holds us all to account. But her pragmatic advice for business practitioners and policy makers means that it is a must listen to if we are to ensure no-one is left behind during the transition to a clean economy.

Link:

International Energy Agency (IEA), Critical minerals, The role of critical minerals in clean energy transitions: https://www.iea.org/topics/critical-minerals 

International Energy Agency (IEA), The Role of Critical Minerals in the Clean Energy Transition, Report: https://www.iea.org/reports/the-role-of-critical-minerals-in-clean-energy-transitions/executive-summary 

Dash to Gas Africa: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-63637686

Loss and Damage Fund: https://unfccc.int/news/cop27-reaches-breakthrough-agreement-on-new-loss-and-damage-fund-for-vulnerable-countries

Oxfam Carbon Billionaire’s Report: https://policy-practice.oxfam.org/resources/carbon-billionaires-the-investment-emissions-of-the-worlds-richest-people-621446/ 

Oxfam’s Climate Finance Short Changed Report 2022: https://policy-practice.oxfam.org/resources/climate-finance-short-changed-the-real-value-of-the-100-billion-commitment-in-2-621426/

If you liked this podcast, do try:

What is Climate Justice, with Tara, Chris and Javier: https://businessfightspoverty.org/what-is-climate-justice/
And
Palm Oil and Climate Justice with Anita Neville: https://businessfightspoverty.org/palm-oil-and-climate-justice/

NGO advocacy with Chelsea Hodgkins, Oxfam America

Why is financial inclusion for displaced people a problem? If you are a migrant or a refugee, if you have left your home due to forced reasons, and you arrive in another country, chances are that financial services are not accessible to you. The lack of an ID card or the lack of recognition of the ID card provided to you is a barrier; the lack of your credit history and collateral are additional barriers; language differences and stereotypes; as well as the lack of information from financial service providers will all hold you back from getting access to financial services. And the consequences are that you may not be able to get a job, pay your taxes or set up your own enterprise. And yet, as we will hear in this podcast, improving financial services for displaced people, unlocks a wealth of economic and social growth for this population, as well as benefits and gains for the countries that hosts them.
 
Meet Social Impact Pioneers Micol Pistelli and Ricardo Martin Garcia Tafur who have been working tirelessly to develop better financial service models for forcibly displaced people. Financial services that help migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers, as well as internal displaced people to get contributing to their local host communities and economies.
 
Micol is a Senior Financial Inclusion Coordinator at UNHCR, The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees – which has the mandate to help and protect refugees, forcibly displaced communities, and stateless people around the world. Whilst Ricardo is a Senior Operations Officer at the IFC and UNHCR Joint Initiative that fosters private sector engagement into forced displacement contexts at the International Finance Corporation (the IFC) which is part of the World Bank Group. Both are deeply focused on building financial and economic inclusion of forcibly displaced populations. 

During this podcast conversation Micol and Ricardo roll up the blind on the economic case for having better financially integrated people in host communities. They explain: “If people migrating into your area are economically contributing to your area, paying their taxes and putting their efforts back into your community – there can be positives for everyone.”
 
Together they have been working directly with financial service providers across South America – the data that they have collected reveals the challenges facing migrants and, also the market opportunities that open, if forcibly displaced people are better served.
 
Get ready to hear very practical ways for banks and other financial service providers to better support migrants, refugees and asylum seekers, while maximizing the gains and benefits for the financial sectors in their host countries. From designing and implementing tailored and people-centered value propositions, to sensitization and breaking paradigms, to recruitment opportunities and service delivery. Listen in to hear more. 

Links:

UNHCR data link https://www.unhcr.org/refugee-statistics/
Short blog on UNHCR work on financial inclusion https://www.unhcr.org/blogs/gaining-ground-on-refugee-financial-inclusion-through-advocacy-innovation-and-partnerships/
 
Global Trends 2022  https://www.unhcr.org/global-trends (can replace the data link previously shared)
 
The Global Report 2022 https://reporting.unhcr.org/publications

Verkuyten M. Public attitudes towards migrants: understanding cross-national and individual differences. World Psychiatry. 2021 Feb;20(1):132-133. doi: 10.1002/wps.20819. PMID: 33432771; PMCID: PMC7801858. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7801858/


And if you liked this conversation, take a listen to:

Gender Equity Pathways at work with Rani from IFC and Tere of Circle de Luz: 
https://businessfightspoverty.org/what-does-it-take-to-create-gender-equality-at-work/
and
Business and Refugees, with Yusuf and Emily: https://businessfightspoverty.org/business-and-refugees/

Financial inclusion for displaced people, with Micol (UNHCR) and Ricardo (IFC)

What does it take to rebuild from failure? Social Impact Pioneer, Daniel Mangena shares his journey - boom to bust and boom again. Today Daniel is a global soul, five-time author, and entrepreneurial coach. Despite hitting rock bottom after losing everything, Daniel rebuilt his life in a unique way, offering valuable insights into recharging oneself, finding purpose, and achieving success through adversity.

Daniel's story is one of resilience and transformation. He candidly reveals that he once contemplated suicide, feeling that his life had lost all meaning. A late diagnosis of Asperger's syndrome, coupled with amassing and subsequently losing a great deal of wealth, took its toll. However, he managed to turn his life around and is now dedicated to empowering others to do the same.

As an entrepreneurial advisor, Daniel firmly believes that success is within reach for everyone, regardless of their starting point. He encourages individuals to identify their passions and determine which ones they are willing to endure numerous failures and setbacks for. When asked about his advice for entrepreneurs who lack formal backing, such as smallholder farmers in emerging markets, Daniel shares that hard situations can be an advantage. He emphasizes the resourcefulness and problem-solving skills developed through navigating challenging circumstances. Failure, according to Daniel is not an experience but a choice. Rather than accepting circumstances as the end of the story, he encourages individuals to view failure as a test or a bump in the road. Drawing on his own experiences and the stories of successful businesspeople, he highlights how failure often precedes great success. This podcast conversation offers a unique perspective on personal growth, success, and social impact. Daniel’s insights provide a roadmap for individuals seeking to rebuild from failure, find their purpose, and make a positive difference in the world. By embracing resilience, pursuing passions, and empowering communities, each person has the potential to create a life of meaning and contribute to a brighter future.

As Daniel continues to inspire and empower others, his podcast episodes and books serve as valuable resources for those seeking personal and entrepreneurial growth. His message resonates with the human spirit, reminding us that success is possible for anyone, regardless of their past or present circumstances. So tune in, recharge your motivation, and embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and achievement.

Links:
Daniel’s Entrepreneur Magazine writer: https://www.entrepreneur.com/author/daniel-mangena
Daniel’s Books – The Money Game; Stepping Beyond Intention; The Dreamers Manifesto; Power Proximity: From Time to Time: https://dreamwithdan.com/books/
Three feet from gold: https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/6983077
Universal law – law of vibration: https://medium.com/@FlanneryDz/the-law-of-vibration-the-2nd-universal-law-ba0329a5f0d2
Ray Dalio – The Changing World Order: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Changing_World_Order

If you liked this, take a listen to:
Business Purpose Made Simple, with William Buist: https://businessfightspoverty.org/business-purpose-made-simple-with-william-buist/
and
Scaling Green Tech Solutions for Smallholder Farmers, with Audrey and Khadija: https://businessfightspoverty.org/scaling-green-tech-solutions-for-smallholder-farmers/

Rebuilding from Failure: The Journey to Success and Purpose - with Daniel Mangena

How can NGOs pivot towards innovation, agility and impact? Social Impact Pioneers Isaac Nyangolo of Zeraki and Paul Ronalds from Save the Children’s Global Ventures share their journey. 

Faced with a rapidly changing world and the tremendous need for systemic reform, NGOs like Save the Children are venturing beyond the bounds of traditional funding models and approaches. Navigating the tumultuous waters of non-governmental organisation funding, they're pivoting towards innovation in order to achieve their ambitious missions.

Paul Ronalds joins the conversation to share why Save the Children, went on a brave journey of transformation beginning by recognising the growing limitations of traditional philanthropy and grants. Paul shares how they embarked on a mission to explore new territories—impact investing, technology, and social enterprise and in the process set up Save the Children Global Ventures (SCGV). 

SCGV is the dedicated entity created to explore innovative finance funding mechanisms and take new technologies to scale. The venture has helped generate significant traction for organisations like Zeraki, a Kenyan-based ed-tech firm that not only proved to be a sound financial investment, but also aligned with the mission of Save the Children.

Meet Isaac Nyangolo, social innovator, entrepreneur, CEO and Co-Founder of Zeraki. There have been great strides taken in getting children some education, but more than half all 10-year-olds from poor and middle income countries are unable to read and understand a short age-appropriate text. With the predictions of climate related disasters and migration becoming a reality, the access to quality education may well slip further. Isaac is on a mission to democratise education and create access to quality learning through online tools and data. During our conversation he advocates for agile support from funders and supporters to scale and grow economically sound, lasting and impactful solutions.
Prepare yourself for a good dowse of inspirations coupled with practical ideas and insights as Paul and Isaac share their warts and all journey.


Links:
•	Save the Children Global Ventures: https://scgv.org/
•	Zeraki: https://www.zeraki.app/
•	UNESCO, The World Needs Almost 69 Million New Teachers to Reach the 2030 Education Goals: https://uis.unesco.org/en/document/world-needs-almost-69-million-new-teachers-reach-2030-education-goals
•	Holon IQ, $10tn global education market in 2030: https://www.holoniq.com/notes/10-trillion-global-education-market-in-2030
•	Save the Children, Impact Funds: https://savethechildreninvestments.org.au/
•	Kevin Starr & Sarah Miers, “No Where To Grow”, Stanford Social Innovation Review, Oct 2020: https://ssir.org/articles/entry/nowhere_to_grow
•	Greg Coussa, “To Impact Millions, the Social Sector Needs to Scale Up Scaling Up”, 
Stanford Social Innovation Review, Jan 2019: https://ssir.org/articles/entry/to_impact_millions_the_social_sector_needs_to_scale_scaling_up
•	Global Partnership, Education Data Highlights:https://www.globalpartnership.org/results/education-data-highlights

NGOs pivot towards innovation, with Isaac of Zeraki and Paul of Save the Children

In a world teetering on the brink of 1.5-degree climate change, the need for innovative, forward-thinking solutions has never been more urgent. Big questions often require big answers that are often so lofty they are impossible to deliver in reality – especially when it comes to business transformation.

 Meet Social Impact Pioneers, Ariel Muller, Director of Futures and Strategic Initiatives and LiLin Loh, Senior Sustainability Strategist, both from Forum for the Future, both based in Singapore.
Forum for the Future is a leading international sustainability non-profit running out of offices in the UK, US, India and Singapore. Since Forum was founded in 1996, it has been working in partnership with business, governments and civil society to accelerate the shift towards a just and regenerative future in which both people and the planet thrive.
Listen in to this podcast conversation to hear Ariel and LiLin reach from future system level sustainable thinking to practical business orientated solutions. 
Join these experts in the realm of futures thinking and sustainability. This is a masterclass in how to anticipate, imagine, and make decisions today for a better tomorrow.
Futures thinking, as Ariel Muller, Director of Futures and Strategic Initiatives at Forum for the Future explains, is a practice of imagination and anticipation. It's about observing current trends and signals, then using that data to envision possible futures. This isn't crystal ball gazing; it's a rigorous, collaborative process that can help businesses, governments, and individuals prepare for what's coming. Ariel, with a background in creative and values-driven work, emphasizes the importance of combining futures thinking with systems thinking. This dual approach not only helps us understand what might happen in the future but also delves into the power dynamics and structural aspects that shape those outcomes.
But how does this all tie into sustainability? LiLin Loh is a Senior Sustainability Strategist also with Forum for the Future, based in Southeast Asia. She brings the conversation down to earth by discussing the practical challenges businesses face in their value chains, particularly in responsible recruitment. LiLin highlights the culture of fear that often prevents companies from addressing deep-rooted issues, opting instead for surface-level compliance. LiLin’s experience working directly with businesses has shown her the need to go beyond mere compliance and engage in multi-solving—addressing both immediate and long-term risks.
So, if you're intrigued by the idea of futures thinking, keen to tackle sustainability challenges, or simply want to understand how to navigate the complex landscape of modern business, this is the podcast for you. It's not just about asking big questions; it's about finding transformative answers. Tune in to explore how we can collectively look towards the future and address the challenges of today, ensuring a more sustainable and equitable world for all.

Links:
Forum for the Future: https://www.forumforthefuture.org/framing-the-future-as-just-and-regenerative-why-and-how 

The Future of Sustainability: https://www.forumforthefuture.org/businesses-must-adopt-a-transformative-mindset-to-build-resilience-through-the-climate-crisis

Full links can be found:https://businessfightspoverty.org/resources/?_content=podcast

Navigating the Future: A Deep Dive into Futures Thinking and Sustainability with Ariel and Li Lin

At the current rate of progress, the UN estimates it could take 300 years to achieve full gender equality. People have been working to create gender equity but the results aren’t making enough of a difference. Is one solution – including men in gender empowerment?

 The International Center for Research on Women (ICRW), Hand in Hand and Cartier Philanthropy have teamed up to better understand what it would take to help men, help women.

In some parts of the world, a conflux of challenges face people – women’s role is perceived as predominantly in the home, visiting friends, or making money is at her husband’s discretion. In these same places few people are employed in the formal economy and living on less than $2.15 a day – and micro-entrepreneurship is the only route out of poverty. It is these places that Hand in Hand have focused their work.

 This podcast peels back the data to reveal the impacts of men and women’s engagement to create gender equity. Three years ago, Hand in Hand started an ambitious new project to shift the norms and attitudes that hold women entrepreneurs back in rural Arusha, Tanzania – working with ICRW and Cartier Philanthropy. Today we hear from Social Impact Pioneers Dorothea Arndt, and Ravi Verma as they share the learning from this work.

Dorothea is the CEO of Hand in Hand International. Hand in Hand are the global network of charities supporting women to lift their families out of poverty by launching their own businesses. In the last 20 years they have supported 4.2 million enterprises and helped to create 6 million jobs.

 Whilst Dr Ravi is the Director, ICRW Asia. With more than three decades of experience in programmatic research and evaluation in family planning and reproductive health, gender mainstreaming and HIV/AIDS in countries throughout Asia.

Ravi and Dorothea together bring a wealth of experience and expertise to creating lasting gender equality. Together they emphasise the importance of involving men and communities in women's empowerment. They particularly highlight the economic implications of gender dynamics, whilst sharing practical learnings from the work and research.

 Links:
 
Report: Measuring the impact of male engagement on women's economic empowerment: https://www.handinhandinternational.org/measuring-the-impact-of-male-engagement-on-womens-economic-empowerment/

UN Women (Sept 2022). Achieving full gender equality is still centuries away, warns the United Nations in a new report. https://www.unwomen.org/en/news-stories/press-release/2022/09/press-release-achieving-full-gender-equality-is-still-centuries-away-warns-the-united-nations-in-a-new-report

Dorothea Arndt: https://www.handinhandinternational.org/teammember/dorothea-arndt/

 Dr Ravi Verma: https://www.icrw.org/staff-members/ravi-verma/

And if you liked this try:
Investors and Female Entrepreneurs, with Sanjukta and Heather: https://businessfightspoverty.org/investors-and-female-entrepreneurs/

The Role of Men in Women's Empowerment with Dorothea and Ravi

Youth inclusion and business. Why do businesses need to better listen to young people and how can you be better at youth inclusion? In today’s rapidly evolving corporate environment, businesses need to prioritise inclusivity – not only as a moral imperative, but as a crucial element in staying competitive. Young people, with their adaptability and unique perspective, represent a significant stakeholder in achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By actively involving this demographic, businesses can drive meaningful change, ensuring that innovations are both inclusive and sustainable.

Listen to Morten Enggaard Rasmussen, Executive Vice President, People, Sustainability & Brand, Novozymes A/S and AiLun Ku, President & CEO, The Opportunity Network as they frankly explain how to better support, listen to and engage young people in business. 

AiLun explains: "[Young people] have so many assets and so many talents. And when we only apply adult brains, and adult thinking and frameworks we came up with, we leave a lot of things intact and a lot of things unsaid."

Whilst Morten challenges us: "I have a call for anyone in here: look at the company, look at your leader... If they are not diverse, if they are not looking for inclusivity, they don’t deserve you. Move on. There are plenty of opportunities."

If you enjoyed this conversation, take a listen to:

Investors and Female Entrepreneurs, with Sanjukta and Heather: https://businessfightspoverty.org/investors-and-female-entrepreneurs/

Youth inclusion and business with Morten of Novozymes and AiLun of The Opportunity Network

This conversation looks into the escalating challenge – that climate change and poverty increase gender based violence. Three experienced civil society, gender empowerment practitioners from leading NGO Practical Action join the Social Impact Pioneers’ podcast to share the wealth of worrying insights and what we can do about it.

Mariette Utamuvuna, Berthille Kampire and George Williams each bring first-hand experience of working with women, and men, in tough places. Be ready to learn about the impacts of living in refugee camps on the incidence of gender based and domestic violence. Our conversation opens with a powerful exploration of gender-based violence (GBV) as a fundamental human rights issue. We discuss the intricate ways in which gender inequality fuels poverty and injustice, emphasising the need for gender mainstreaming and transformative change. This conversation is not just about identifying problems but also about championing practical actions and strategies to empower women and engage men in the fight against GBV. 

Mariette, Berthille and George together also share inspiring stories from the field, highlighting successful interventions in refugee camps and communities affected by climate change. These stories illustrate the power of community involvement and the importance of addressing gender inequality in all aspects of development work.

Join us as we explore the intersections of gender-based violence, climate, resilience, and practical action. Whether you're a professional in the field, an interested listener, or someone looking for ways to make a difference, this episode offers valuable perspectives and solutions for a more equitable and
sustainable world.

If you have found any of this worrying or you would like direct support with regards to GBV – the NO MORE directory can support you: https://nomoredirectory.org/
 
Links:
 
Climate Change and Domestic Violence in South Asia - Nextshark.com (2023). Climate change linked to increase in domestic violence in South Asia, study finds. [online] Available at: https://nextshark.com/temperature-increase-domestic-violence-south-asia-study
 
Gender Transformative Change - Practical Action -  Gender Transformative Change. [online] Available at: https://practicalaction.org/gender-transformative-change
 
Gender-Based Violence – UNHCR - Gender-based violence. [online] Available at: https://www.unhcr.org/what-we-do/protect-human-rights/protection/gender-based-violence
 
Violence Against Women and Girls - World Bank Gender Data Portal - Violence against women and girls – what the data tell us. [online] Available at: https://genderdata.worldbank.org/data-stories/overview-of-gender-based-violence/
 
Share of women who suffered intimate partner physical and/or sexual violence in 2020, by region - Statista - https://www.statista.com/statistics/1212170/share-of-women-who-suffered-intimate-partner-physical-and-or-sexual-violence-by-region/
 
Climate crisis linked to rising domestic violence in south Asia, study finds - The Guardian - https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2023/jun/28/climate-crisis-linked-to-rising-domestic-violence-in-south-asia-study-finds
   
The night a refugee camp became a city - Practical Action (2022) - https://practicalaction.org/news-media/2020/04/07/the-night-a-refugee-camp-became-a-city/
 
Does access to electricity change poor people’s lives? - Practical Action (2019) - https://practicalaction.org/news-media/2019/02/15/does-access-to-electricity-change-poor-peoples-lives/
 
Gender Transformative Early Warning Systems - Practical Action Info Hub – https://infohub.practicalaction.org/handle/11283/621134
Gender and Age Inequality of Disaster Risk - Practical Action Info Hub –  https://infohub.practicalaction.org/handle/11283/622902
 
Gender_Transformative_Change_Updated_Feb_2023.pdf - Practical Action (2023) - https://practicalaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Gender_Transformative_Change_Updated_Feb_2023.pdf

Practical Action: Climate Change and Poverty Increases Gender Based Violence

Can regenerative enterprise create the sustainable business model needed to address climate change, end poverty, and help everyone be included in a better future?

In the world of activism and scepticism, there are calls for radical divergence from capitalist, consumerism. Social Impact Pioneer Niels de Fraguier is championing another path - regenerative enterprise. A term that encapsulates the idea of not just sustaining but actively replenishing and restoring through business. 

On the eve of COP28 – as the world sharpens its focus on the global challenge of climate change – listen in to this podcast for refreshing insight into how business can be a part of the solution.

Niels is a seasoned activist who started his career working with refugees and vulnerable groups. This work involved policymaking and collaboration with organisations like the UN, European Commission, and the Council of Europe, before he turned his attention to business. Exploring the question – how can the energy and efforts of business be harnessed to ensure the sustainable future we need?

Listen in to Niels as he thoughtfully unpicks how businesses can pivot to support more people…this is a conversation of practical steps and key questions that could enable business decision makers to pivot their work – resulting in better run businesses fit for the future and, hopefully, regenerating social and environmental outcomes. As Niels explains ‘doing no harm is not good enough – businesses must contribute positively and regeneratively.’ 

Questions this podcast explores:

How do we make sure business is fit for the future:

To make businesses fit for the future, it's crucial to embrace regenerative practices, going beyond sustainability to replenish and repair the world. This involves redefining success to prioritise social and environmental goals alongside profit, ensuring business activities contribute positively to society and the environment. Key strategies include adopting a circular economy model, respecting local communities and ecosystems, fostering diversity and equity in the workplace, and innovating for positive impact. Businesses should strive to be a force for good, transforming their operations to create a more equitable, sustainable, and thriving future for all.

Can business continue as before for a sustainable future?

Businesses must evolve beyond traditional sustainability for a sustainable future. Regenerative enterprise focuses on replenishing ecosystems and empowering human potential, not just minimizing harm. This approach involves embedding evolutionary purpose, respecting interconnections and locality, and fostering well-being, participation, and resilience. It's about creating value in multiple forms, not just financial gain. Companies should challenge the status quo, promoting systemic change towards a more equitable, thriving world. This transformation requires collaboration, innovative thinking, and a commitment to long-term, positive impact on people and the planet.

Links:

Niels de Fraguier - https://fr.linkedin.com/in/nielsdefraguier/en
Niels de Fraguier articles: https://niels-defraguier.medium.com
The Regenerative Enterprise - https://theregenerativeenterprise.com
Positive resources - http://www.makeapositiveimpact.co
Think into the Future: a Canvas to lead positive change and become a good ancestor - https://bit.ly/3br9mTL
FUTURs : Le jeu pour faire de demain un meilleur lendemain
https://futurs-lejeu.fr
L'ÉCOLOGIE POUR TOUTES ET TOUS - https://lecologiepourtous.fr

Regenerative Enterprise: Pioneering a Sustainable Future, with Niels de Fraguier

Over 4.5 million mothers and babies die each year from preventable conditions during pregnancy, birth or in the few weeks of life; 95% of these in lower-income countries. Maternal health supply chains are a key element to ensure medicines and equipment reach those who need it. Last mile delivery of medicines to hard-to-reach places is critical to addressing maternal and baby deaths. This Social Impact Pioneer podcast delves into the transformative partnership between Global Financing Facility (GFF), MSD for Mothers, the Mozambique Government, the USP Foundation and a caste of other public and private actors. Their ground-breaking collaboration focuses on improving maternal health supply chains, particularly in Mozambique. 
 
Listen in to this podcast to learn how public-private partnerships can tackle complex health issues effectively and exemplify the power of shared information for good.
 
Social Impact Pioneers - Jeffrey Jacobs and Tara Tagmyer have both dedicated their careers to solving complex health challenges. From vaccine design to last-mile delivery of medical supplies to remote health facilities. During this conversation expect to learn first-hand, practical ways to bring big organisations together to share expertise and importantly complex data sets in order to create health provision solutions. As Tara explains the crucial role of AI in strengthening these supply chains underscores the synergy of technology and healthcare.

Links:

Business Fights Poverty and our collaboration with the Global Financing Facility on the role of business in delivering healthier futures for women, children and adolescents, available at: https://businessfightspoverty.org/gff-delivering-healthier-futures-for-women-children-and-adolescents/
 
Jacobs, J., LinkedIn Profile, available at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-l-jacobs
 
MSD for Mothers, Who We Are, available at: https://www.msdformothers.com/who-we-are.html
 
Statista 2023, Infant Mortality Rate 2023, available at: https://www.statista.com/statistics/264714/countries-with-the-highest-infant-mortality-rate/
 
Tagmyer, T., LinkedIn Profile, available at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tara-tagmyer-b7bb154b/

UN WHO, 2023, A woman dies every two minutes due to pregnancy or childbirth: UN agencies, available at: https://www.who.int/news/item/23-02-2023-a-woman-dies-every-two-minutes-due-to-pregnancy-or-childbirth--un-agencies
 
WHO, 2023, Global Progress In Tackling Maternal and New-born Deaths Stalls Since 2015, available at: https://www.who.int/news/item/09-05-2023-global-progress-in-tackling-maternal-and-newborn-deaths-stalls-since-2015--un.

Revolutionising Maternal Health Supply Chains: Insights from MSD for Mothers

In this episode, we dive deep into the role of carbon markets in addressing the global challenge of climate change. Recorded at COP28, from Dubai, Social Impact Pioneer Sheri Hickok provides a 101 on the function of carbon markets and their evolution through carbon offsetting hiccups; whilst giving us a glimpse behind the curtain of the globe’s climate conference.

Sheri is the CEO of Climate Impact Partners. With over 25 years of experience in the renewable energy and now the carbon markets – she explains how companies utilise these markets to achieve their sustainability goals. The conversation demystifies the concept of carbon markets, moving beyond the simple notion of tree planting to explore comprehensive strategies like agroforestry projects in Indonesia, community engagement and additive contributions. Together we talk creating jobs, enhancing community livelihoods, improving local biodiversity, and the regulation that is being developed to ensure carbon markets don’t fall into green washing.

Sheri talks about the African Carbon Markets Initiative (ACMI) – where African nations countries can transfer carbon credits earned from the reduction of their greenhouse gas emissions to other countries in order to meet their climate targets. By 2030 the ACMI aims to: Produce 300 million carbon credits annually; Unlock $6bn in revenue; Create 30mn jobs.

Listeners are encouraged to join the conversation and contribute their perspectives. This episode is not just an informative session; it's a call to action for collective efforts in combating climate change through innovative solutions like carbon markets.
As the climate crisis looms larger, this podcast episode offers valuable insights and inspires hope by showcasing effective strategies and real-world examples of progress in the fight against global warming.

Links:
Impact Partners: Climateimpact.com
VCMI - VCMI - Delivering high-integrity carbon markets: https://vcmintegrity.org/
ICVCM - ICVCM - Build integrity and scale will follow: https://icvcm.org/
IPPC 2030 targets - The evidence is clear: the time for action is now. We can halve emissions by 2030. — IPCC: https://www.ipcc.ch/2022/04/04/ipcc-ar6-wgiii-pressrelease/
Website with project info/case studies - Case Studies | Climate Impact Partners: https://www.climateimpact.com/case-studies/

Carbon Markets, Climate Change Solutions and Insights from COP 28 with Sheri Hickok

Welcome to our latest podcast episode, where we delve into the heart of climate action and child advocacy within the climate conference – COP28's Green Zone. Our special guests, Saranga and Keeva from ChildFund International, share their profound insights and experiences in empowering children and youth to combat climate change.

ChildFund International, an organisation dedicated to helping vulnerable children worldwide, has been making a significant impact for over eight decades. Their approach emphasises child protection and promoting societies that value, protect, and advance children's rights. Saranga Jayarathne, the Senior Advisor Advocacy, for ChildFund International underscores the necessity of viewing climate change through a child-focused lens. Highlighting how climate change exacerbates existing risks for children, both online and offline, and the urgent need for action to protect their future.

Keeva Duffey, Senior Advisor on Climate Action at ChildFund, shares her perspective on the role of children and youth in climate discussions. She stresses the importance of their meaningful engagement at local, national, and international levels, including events like COP28. ChildFund’s mission is to ensure that children's voices are heard in crucial climate change discussions, advocating for a future where they are safe, healthy, educated, and skilled.

Our conversation also explores the broader implications of climate change on children's health, education, and safety. We discuss how rising temperatures, air pollution, and shifting weather patterns pose significant threats to children's well-being. 

Join us as we explore the intersection of climate change and child advocacy with experts from ChildFund International and how involving everyone in the conversation can help create a sustainable future for the next generation.

Links:

ChildFund website: ChildFund Children's Charity | Sponsor a Child Today!
Child protection online, Take it down campaign: ChildFund | Take It Down
UNICEF report: The climate-changed child | UNICEF
World Bank report on migration: Groundswell Part 2: Acting on Internal Climate Migration (worldbank.org)
ChildFund Alliance report strategies to end violence in a changing climate:Strategies-to-end-violence-against-children-in-a-changing-climate.pdf (barnfonden.se)
ChildFund Alliance climate and environmental action brief: Climate and Environmental Action Brief 2023 - ChildFund Alliance
Dr. Stephen Knight-Lenihan (MSc; Dip. Jour; PhD; MEIANZ.): Recent publications: Knight-Lenihan, S 2020 Achieving biodiversity net gain in a neoliberal economy: the case of England Ambio 49(12): 2052-2060. DOI 10.1007/s13280-020-01337-5  /  Knight-Lenihan, S 2021 Why the proposed Natural and Built Environments Act might fail. N. Z. J. Environ. Law 25, 259–277.  /  Knight-Lenihan, S 2022 Identifying limits in domestic law delivering net ecological benefit: a New Zealand example. Urban Sci. 6, 93.https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci6040093  / Knight-Lenihan, S 2023. Ecological health and integrity in New Zealand legislation. Aust J Envt Mgmt DOI: 10.1080/14486563.2023.2179117. Knight-Lenihan, S. 2015 “Benefit costs analysis, resilience and climate change” Climate Policy 16(7): 909-923.

And if you liked this podcast listen to: https://businessfightspoverty.org/exploring-the-role-of-carbon-markets-in-climate-change-solutions-insights-from-cop-28-with-sheri-hickok/

Empowering Youth in Climate Action: Insights from COP28 with ChildFund International

Dive into the heart of COP28, examine the critical discussions on climate change and water security. Social Impact Pioneers - Farai Tunhuma  and Uwe Steckhan of UNICEF, the United Nations Children's Fund, join us from within the global climate conference in Dubai – COP28.

Our conversation begins with a focus on the crucial role of water in climate resilience. We explore how climate change exacerbates water scarcity and affects sanitation systems, directly impacting over 700 million children globally. The discussion emphasises the need for collaborative action in securing water resources and adapting to changing climate conditions.

The episode also sheds light on the intersection of private sector involvement and climate action. With insights from the UNICEF private sector engagement team, we discuss how businesses can contribute positively to water security and climate resilience. The dialogue underscores the importance of private sector investment and innovation in addressing these global challenges.
Finally, our Farai and Uwe reflect on their experiences at COP28, sharing how the conference has influenced their work and opened doors for future collaborations. They highlight the importance of translating discussions into action, emphasising the urgency of addressing climate change impacts on children and vulnerable communities.

Links:

UNICEF Global WASH Call to Action ahead of COP28: Liquid Assets at Risk | UNICEF : https://www.unicef.org/documents/liquid-assets-risk This Call to Action developed by UNICEF in collaboration with WaterAid and the CDP highlights the ways in which businesses and governments can work together to invest in sustainable safe drinking water and sanitation services as an essential first line of defence against the impacts of climate change. We launched this just before COP28.

UNICEF COP28 report: The climate-changed child - A Children’s Climate Risk Index supplement: The climate-changed child | UNICEF: https://www.unicef.org/reports/climate-changed-child The report details how children's health is affected by climate change and contains new data on how and where children are exposed to water related threats that jeopardize their health and wellbeing. Also includes key asks for the private sector. 

UNICEF COP Page: COP28: UNICEF calls for universal action to tackle a child rights crisis | UNICEF: https://www.unicef.org/climate-action/cop 
 
Uwe Steckhan | LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steckhan/
Farai Angela Tunhuma | LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tunhumafaraiangela/

Navigating Climate Change and Water Security at COP28 - with UNICEF's Farai and Uwe

Why lifting participation of women and excluded groups around the world can help tackle climate change. Listen in to this personal conversation between Standard Chartered’s Group Chief Executive, Bill Winters and Futuremaker Audrey S-Darko as they talk entrepreneurship, climate change and women in technology.
 
Audrey is a dynamic entrepreneur in the agricultural-tech sector based in Ghana. During this conversation with Bill Winters, she shares her first-hand experiences and perspectives on the critical intersection of climate change and environmental degradation. In the wake of COP28 – Audrey emphasises the loss of arable land, reduced agricultural productivity, and the socio-economic consequences for farming communities that climate change is reaping.
 
Whilst together Bill and Audrey discuss the power of female entrepreneurs and how tackling the inequality in financing and support of their enterprises can radically increase climate solutions, whilst simultaneously lifting households out of poverty. Be ready to learn about financing mechanisms and support that can help create resilience to climate change and lift participation of female entrepreneurs, including Standard Chartered’s own Futuremakers and Women in Tech programmes.

Links:

Business Fights Poverty Climate Justice Summit assets from workshops on female entrepreneurs tackling climate change: https://businessfightspoverty.org/climate-justice-summits/

Standard Chartered, Futuremakers: https://www.sc.com/uk/futuremakers/

Standard Chartered, Women in Tech: https://www.sc.com/ae/sustainability/women-in-tech/

Investors and Female Entrepreneurs, with Sanjukta and Heather: https://businessfightspoverty.org/investors-and-female-entrepreneurs/

Lifting participation: Female entrepreneurs tackle climate change – with Bill Winters and Audrey

Social Impact Pioneer, Azfar Khan explores the complexities and transformative potential of living wages. A topic that seems straightforward but unravels into a myriad of intricate issues: Living wages. The concept is simple – pay people enough not just to survive, but to truly live. This approach has the power to address the root of numerous societal challenges, from domestic violence and health issues to education and overall happiness. Lifting individuals out of poverty can significantly diminish these problems.
However, the reality of implementing living wages is far from simple. Questions arise about accurately measuring what constitutes a living wage, managing geographical variations, and adapting to the frequently changing cost of living. To unpack these complexities, we're joined by a distinguished expert in the field, Azfar Khan.
Azfar, a Senior Economist at the Anker Research Institute, brings a wealth of experience from his over two decades at the International Labour Organization (ILO). His roles have included Head of Research for Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work, Deputy Director of the Socio-Economic Security Programme, and Migration Policy Specialist. With a PhD in Development Studies and Economics, Azfar has also taught at the Institute of Social Studies in The Hague, Netherlands, and served as the Director of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)’s Global Programme of Training in Population and Development.
Based in Geneva and Beirut, Azfar's work has focused on social protection, employment, poverty, labour migration, and the interplay of demographic and economic issues. Today, we're zeroing in on his insights into living wages – a topic that's more relevant than ever in our world of growing inequality and relative poverty.

Links:
Living Wage Methodology:https://www.econstor.eu/bitstream/10419/182380/1/978-1-78643-146-2.pdf

On Qatar Labour Rights Issues: Why it's time to end kafala: https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2014/feb/26/time-to-end-kafala

Qatar criticised for promoting slave labour:
https://english.alarabiya.net/sports/2013/09/26/Qatar-criticized-for-slave-labor-within-World-Cup-projects

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5y_uA6bovq4

Universal Basic Income: https://basicincome.org/

What Is Basic Income and How Does It Support Wellbeing:https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/What_Basic_Income_How_Support_Well_Being

UN Guidelines on Business and Human Rights: https://www.ohchr.org/sites/default/files/documents/publications/guidingprinciplesbusinesshr_en.pdf

ILO Social Dialogue: https://www.ilo.org/global/research/global-reports/social-dialogue/2022/lang--en/index.htm

And if you liked this podcast take a listen to:

Bill and Audrey explore how female entrepreneurs are tackling climate change: https://businessfightspoverty.org/lifting-participation-female-entrepreneurs-tackle-climate-change/

Living Wages with Azfar Khan

Delve into the fascinating world of sustainable hospitality with Levar Jackson, a visionary in eco-friendly hotel design. As the Founder and CEO of Yogh Group, Jackson collaborates with Oregon State University to pioneer sustainable technologies for the hospitality industry, such as the QuaiEnergy System and the Algae Growth System.

Our conversation starts in the UK, highlighting the need for greener travel destinations. Levar is on a mission to integrate sustainability, and clean-technology design in hotels.

Levar emphasises the importance of pragmatic solutions in transforming hotels into sustainable spaces. He discusses the challenges of miniaturising sustainable technologies for hotel use, ensuring that they are both efficient and fit for the unique demands of the hospitality industry. 

We explore various trends in sustainable technology, with a focus on contextually based solutions like microgrids, heat pumps, and green roofing. The key takeaway? No single technology can solve all problems; a holistic, location-specific approach is essential.

As we discuss the financial and environmental implications of sustainable practices, Levar highlights the need for the hospitality industry to lead in innovation, rather than merely adopting technologies designed for other sectors.

Links:

https://yogh.group/ 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/levarjackson

And if you liked this take a listen to: 

Social Impact Pioneer, Azfar Khan Explores the Complexities and Transformative Potential of Living Wages: https://businessfightspoverty.org/social-impact-pioneer-azfar-khan-explores-the-complexities-and-transformative-potential-of-living-wages/

And

Lifting Participation: Female Entrepreneurs Tackle Climate Change – with Bill Winters and Audrey S-Darko: https://businessfightspoverty.org/lifting-participation-female-entrepreneurs-tackle-climate-change/

Sustainable Hospitality with Levar Jackson: A Journey Towards Eco-Friendly Hotels

Making living wages work. Today, I'm thrilled to introduce a trailblazer in the realm of social impact, Jeff Bakes, an award-winning International Total Rewards Director and the current Head of Total Rewards at IKEA. With over three decades of reward expertise, Jeff stands out as a global thought leader, known for his innovative and exceptional solutions in the field. And that field includes, making living wages work - for business and for people.

In this episode, we delve into the critical topics of Living Wages and the tangible benefits of investing in your workforce. Jeff's impressive career includes leading roles in Rewards at Channel 4 Television in the UK and significant contributions to PwC, Mondelez, and Network Rail. His insights on diverse and inclusive workforces are not just theoretical; they are the product of years of dedication and practical application.

Jeff's approach to living wages goes beyond the basics. He views it as a means to provide employees with a standard of living that allows for self-sufficiency and choice. For Jeff this is both simple, yet profound in its impact on individuals, families, and communities. 

In our conversation, Jeff shares his experiences and challenges in implementing living wages, emphasising the balance between financial constraints and the moral imperative of fair pay. He highlights the benefits businesses reap from fair wages, including enhanced employee engagement, attraction, and retention, ultimately leading to a more robust and committed workforce.

As we explore the future of work, Jeff touches on the evolving landscape of employment, the role of technology, and the importance of embracing diversity and equality in the workplace. His forward-thinking approach is not just about meeting current standards but anticipating and preparing for future challenges.

Jeff Bakes, is a true pioneer in social impact within business. Whether you're a business leader, HR professional, or someone passionate about making a difference, this episode is a must-listen. Jeff's insights and experiences are a testament to the power of commitment, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of positive change in the workplace.


Links:

IKEA's Living Wages: https://www.ikea.com/gb/en/newsroom/corporate-news/ikea-to-invest-in-pay-and-cost-of-living-support-package-pubbcc12b20

Jeff Bakes: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/jeffbakes

And if you liked this conversation, take a listen to: 

Azfar Khan Explores the Complexities and Transformative Potential of Living Wages: https://businessfightspoverty.org/social-impact-pioneer-azfar-khan-explores-the-complexities-and-transformative-potential-of-living-wages/

Making Living Wages Work, with Jeff Bakes, IKEA

Meet Social Impact Pioneer - Hamzah Sarwar as he shares the challenges of combining personal and business purpose. Hamzah takes us on his personal journey, exploring the challenges of trying to create social good, whilst providing for his family. Hamzah is now the Global Social Impact and Partnerships Director at Reckitt, who are a global health, hygiene, and nutrition business, with a presence in over 45 countries and a portfolio including household names such as: Dettol, Harpic, Strepsils, Nurofen, Lemsip, and Durex. 

Today Hamzah's role extends beyond mere business operations to cultivating meaningful societal change. His journey, however, isn't just a story of open doors and opportunities. It's a tale of passion, resilience, and commitment to social innovation. With over 13 years of cross-functional leadership in marketing, insights & evaluation, brand purpose, and social impact, Hamzah is a living testament to the power of aligning corporate strategies with societal needs.

Our conversation centres on the essence of corporate and personal purpose. We delve into how these concepts can drive a business forward and also create a tangible impact in the world. Hamzah, an award-winning practitioner, is celebrated by the Schwab Foundation for Social Entrepreneurship and the World Economic Forum as one of the top global social innovators. His accolades include being a finalist in the Corporate Social Intrapreneur award for 2024, a Global Fellowship at the League of Intrapreneurs, a One Young World ambassador, and a member of the BMW Foundation responsible leaders’ network.

Get ready for a practical conversation on how to realise your own personal purpose and a pick-me-up on empowerment. One person can make a difference…and Hamzah humbly explains how.

Links:
DRUM, Reckitt's Hamzah Sarwar explores the innovation behind winning an award for community engagement: https://www.thedrum.com/tv/video/reckitts-hamzah-sarwar-explores-the-innovation-behind-winning-an-award-for-community-engagement
Reckitt and social impact: https://reckitt.com/our-stories/2023/better-lives-for-8-million-people-our-biggest-impact-ever/
Reckitt, Fight For Access social impact investment fund: https://reckitt.com/our-impact/fairer-society/fight-for-access-fund/
Reckitt, WINFund: https://reckitt.com/media-landing/press-releases/2023/increasing-access-to-healthcare-and-climate-finance/
Reckitt, Dettol, The Hygiene Quest: https://www.dettol.com.au/hygiene-quest/
One Young World: https://www.oneyoungworld.com
League of Intrapreneurs: https://www.leagueofintrapreneurs.com
WEF, 10 Million Social Enterprises, 2024: https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2024/01/10-million-reasons-for-the-private-sector-to-invest-in-social-enterprise/
Kate Raworth, Donut economics: https://www.kateraworth.com/doughnut/

Combining personal and business purpose with Hamzah Sarwar

Education equity – what does that mean and why does it matter? For Social Impact Pioneer, Mohan Sivaloganathan knows it’s about making education and employment preparedness fairer, opportunities open to everyone and closing the gaps of inequality. 

Mohan Sivaloganathan, the CEO of Our Turn. leading a national movement in the US of young leaders in the fight for education equity. Our conversation is personal and pragmatic, with advice for students, educators, and business decision makers. With an aim of opening up the conversation in inequality so we might be able to close up the gaps between us all.

In this episode, we explore Mohan's journey from a first-generation American, navigating the expectations of a South Asian immigrant family, to becoming a Troublemaker for the status quo, challenging and reshaping the narrative around success, identity, and community engagement. Mohan’s work has brought him recognition: Being named within the 40 Under 40 Rising Star in NY and being featured by Fast Company, Good is the New Cool, ESPN, and more.

Join us as Mohan shares his insights on the importance of equipping change drivers with the support they need, the role of identity and culture in advancing justice, and how his multifaceted life experiences have shaped his approach to making the world a better place. Whether you're a student, young professional, educator, philanthropist, or corporate leader, this conversation promises to enlighten, inspire, and provoke thought on how we can all play a part in driving meaningful change.

Journey into the mind of a man who lives at the intersection of activism, leadership, and creativity. Tune in to discover how Mohan Sivaloganathan is not just challenging the status quo but rewriting the rules of engagement for a more equitable and just society.


Links:
Our Turn: https://www.itsourturn.org
Mohan Sivaloganathan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/msivaloganathan/

And if you liked this conversation, do check out:

Combing Personal and Business Purpose with Hamzah Sarwar: https://businessfightspoverty.org/combining-personal-and-business-purpose-with-hamzah-sarwar/

The Business Fights Poverty Equity Summit: Join us for two engaging days at our Global Equity Summit, where we'll navigate the shifting landscape of business and equity, crafting strategies to tackle contemporary challenges. Delve into vital issues such as women’s entrepreneurship, health, gender-based violence, sustainable infrastructure, value chains, and empowering the youth. Register for FREE using promo code GES24BFP. : https://businessfightspoverty.org/global-equity-summit/

Education equity with Mohan Sivaloganathan

Measuring social impact and human rights regulation are hot topics. Social Impact Pioneer - Emily Kane Miller has been working hard to develop understanding and data on to help us all with this. From lawyer to social impact specialist, Emily has an eye for detail.

Emily has felt the pain of not being able to measure and manage social impact with businesses. Most people complain about this, Emily bucks this trend and instead set up Ethos Tracking – the social impact data capture and reporting platform.

Get ready to hear from Emily, as she takes us from the basics of social impact with business. Emily explores questions such as: why is social impact measurement important? How do you begin to measure social impact? Right through to the nuances of the emerging human rights and due diligence regulatory reporting requirements.

In addition to this, Emily talks about her recent Forbes article which explores the social impact trends of 2024, emphasising the importance of data in validating and amplifying social good efforts. 
Whether you're a seasoned professional in the social impact space or just starting to explore how you can make a difference, this podcast conversation will help you.

Links:
Ethos Giving: https://ethos-giving.com
Ethos Tracking: https://ethostracking.com
Forbes article: Social Impact Trends That Will Affect Chief Impact Officers In 2024: https://www.forbes.com/sites/zengernews/2024/01/05/social-impact-trends-that-will-affect-chief-marketing-officers-in-2024/?sh=626241b830af
Emily’s Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-kane-miller-32272286/

And if you like this check out the Business Fights Poverty Equity Summit – live 6th and 7th March 2024: 

https://businessfightspoverty.org/global-equity-summit
Register with this reusable promo code for free online access: GES24BFP

Measuring social impact and human rights regulation with Emily Kane Miller

Can business help peace? And can the processes by which peace comes into being help business? My social impact pioneer today – Tim Fort believes so.

As one of the recent nominees for the 2024 Nobel Peace Prize (yes The Nobel Peace Prize) – Tim Fort is a prolific thinker and writer on all avenues of business and peace. Tim Fort has been nominated for the 2024 Nobel Peace Prize for his work in showing how ethical business behaviour can positively contribute to peace. He holds the Eveleigh Professorship in Business Ethics at the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University and is also an Affiliated Scholar at the Kroc Institute of International Peace Studies at the University of Notre Dame. Fort received the 2022 Distinguished Career Faculty Award from the Academy of Legal Studies in Business.  

He has written one hundred articles, reviews and chapters along with twelve books; he has edited many more. Two of his books have won the Best Book Award from the Academy of Management for Social Issues.  

Tim joins us to share very practical advice on how we can make peace and what business can learn from peacemakers. He then goes on to give us a sneak peak into his new book which he is co-authoring with Kristin Hahn, executive producer of Apple TV’s "The Morning Show," explaining how shared cultural experiences can serve as common ground for people divided by social and political issues. Get ready to hear about the power of music, sharing a love of sports, and why going for a walk with your dog could resolve conflict.

Links:
-Cindy Schipani and Tim Fort’s book: The role of business in fostering peaceful societies: https://www.cambridge.org/core/books/role-of-business-in-fostering-peaceful-societies/39F381F211120B66293F33812A88C717
-Tim Fort, The Diplomat in the Corner Office: Corporate Foreign Policy https://www.sup.org/books/title/?id=23129
-Tim Fort and Cindy Schipani, The Role of the Corporation in Fostering Sustainable Peace, 35 Vanderbilt Law Review 389 (2021). Available at: https://scholarship.law.vanderbilt.edu/vjtl/vol35/iss2/1
-Terry Dworkin and Cindy Schipani, Gender Voice and Correlations with Peace+, 36 Vanderbilt Law Review 527 (2021). Available at: https://scholarship.law.vanderbilt.edu/vjtl/vol36/iss2/6
-Tim Fort, Review by: William Frederick. Business Ethics Quarterly
Vol. 20, No. 1, Behavioral Ethics: A New Empirical Perspective on Business -Ethics Research (Jan., 2010), pp. 134-137 (4 pages). Published By: Cambridge University Press. Available at: https://www.jstor.org/stable/27755327
-Jane Nelson (2000). The Business of Peace: The Private Sector as a Partner in Conflict Prevention and Resolution. Available at: https://books.google.com/books/about/The_Business_of_Peace.html?id=hQwrJAAACAAJ
-Samuel Moyn  (2021). Humane: How the United States Abandoned Peace and Reinvented War. Available at: https://www.amazon.com/Humane-United-States-Abandoned-Reinvented/dp/0374173702
-Raymond Kelly (2000). Warless Societies and the Origin of War. Available at:  https://press.umich.edu/Books/W/Warless-Societies-and-the-Origin-of-War
-Constance Cook Glen, Timothy L. Fort (2022). Music, Business and Peacebuilding. Available at: https://www.routledge.com/Music-Business-and-Peacebuilding/Glen-Fort/p/book/9781032185989
-Tim Fort (2021). TED. What can the dog park teach us about bridging great societal divides?Available at: https://www.ted.com/talks/tim_fort_what_can_the_dog_park_teach_us_about_bridging_great_societal_divides
-Braver Angels. Available at: https://braverangels.org
Sweet dreams for Rwanda: http://www.sweetdreamsrwanda.com
-Follow Tim and Kristin’s collaboration. Available at: https://www.facebook.com/iuhhc/photos/a.685177491572241/4845214892235126/?type=3

If you liked this podcast do join us at the Business Fights Poverty Global Equity Summit: https://businessfightspoverty.org/global-equity-summit (free tickets are available when you apply this promo code: GES24BFP

How can business help peace, with Tim Fort

How do we tackle gender inequality through work? Avon are calling for Women's progress and equality, for us to Speak Out against gender-based violence and Shine Bright for women in our communities and around the world. This podcast was recorded during the Business Fights Poverty Global Equity Summit 2024.

Ahead International Women's Day - Andreea Moldovan and Laura Shaw joined us and had a conversation about the key findings from Avon's latest Global Progress for Women report.
 
They very generously open up about their personal experiences of breaking the barriers to gender inequality and discuss nurturing entrepreneurial spirit, creating safe spaces for women to thrive and driving actionable change for a more equitable and supportive future for women worldwide. 

Andreea has 25 years of experience in direct selling and cosmetics industry, with over 10 years spent as a General Manager. Andrea has a background in computer science applied in economics 
She has lived in 3 countries and worked with more than 20 markets during her career.

Laura, with over two decades in marketing, PR, and communications, is an accountability coach and marketing manager as well as running her successful Avon business - Laura is a proud Avon rep -  supporting others to do the same.

Links:

Avon's Global Progress for Women Report 2024: https://www.avonworldwide.com/dam/jcr:d2346fa0-8d27-43a0-96ba-0e2282c0a3fc/IWD-report-2024.pdf

Business Fights Poverty, Global Equity Summit 2024 - full video resources and insight reports: https://businessfightspoverty.org/global-equity-summit

Tackling gender inequality with Andreea Moldovan and Laura Shaw of Avon

What happens when social impact and entrepreneurship skills are combined? The Social Impact Pioneer Dr Orsolya Ihasz.

Orsolya or Orsi to her friends, works at the intersection between deep academia, social innovation, entrepreneurship, and public health – she is a champion of the social enterprise.
From youth peace activist to today – where Orsi is currently the Director of the Cranfield Venture Programme and before this she spent 12 years in entrepreneurship education at the University of Cambridge, Judge Business School – championing and supporting people to succeed in developing innovative ideas and succeeding in enterprise. She has a PhD in Social Innovation & Complex Information Systems, and has worked with the Department for International Development, the EU DG Youth, to promote youth-participation within policy. She is an external advisor to the World Health Organisation - working on the scaling of digitally enabled health interventions for tackling non-communicable diseases. In her spare time, Orsi is co-founder of Colab-8, a venture consultancy aimed at delivering social innovation across sectors; collaborating with RH-Consult in Geneva; and the Curiosity Incubator - Accelerator for Good at the University of Cambridge; and she’s a Fellow at the Foundation for Science and Technology.
During this podcast conversation, we talk about innovation, entrepreneurship, solving big questions, and why health innovation needs to start in our communities.
Orsi has been studying, teaching, advising people on entrepreneurial mindset and skill sets needed for successful social enterprises. A give away – Orsi is convinced that social enterprises are a key mechanism to tackling some of the world’s most pressing issues.

During our conversation we talk about asking difficult questions and opening doors in order to answer them; why the solution to many health challenges is community-based; and how social enterprises will be the solution to overzealous capitalism.

Links:
Be Healthy, Be Mobile
https://www.who.int/initiatives/behealthy/

R-Health Consult 
https://www.r-healthconsult.com

Foundation of Science and Technology 
https://www.foundation.org.uk/

Curiosity Incubator | Accelerator for Good 
https://www.linkedin.com/company/curiosity-incubator/about/

Colab-8 
https://colab-8.com/

Ideas to Innovation (i2i) 
https://www.cranfield.ac.uk/som/events/i2i

And if you like this, take a listen to:

Lifting Participation: Female Entrepreneurs Tackle Climate Change – with Bill Winters and Audrey S-Darko: https://businessfightspoverty.org/lifting-participation-female-entrepreneurs-tackle-climate-change/

Combining social impact and entrepreneurship skills with Orsolya Ihasz

Are you poor? Am I poor? And what will it take to stop poverty? Social Impact Pioneer Dr Martin Burt doesn’t think we should just be measuring poverty, or in turn wealth, by the amount of money we have alone. Martin believes that we can all be poor by some measures and that none of us are necessarily poor by all the measures.

That is because Martin has been studying, working and leading businesses, civil society and governments to on his mission to tackle poverty. During this podcast you will hear what Martin has learnt on his journey; he shares the tools and skills he has developed in tackling poverty; and challenges us all to end poverty.

Dr Martin Burt is the founder and CEO of Fundación Paraguaya, a social enterprise he set up in 1985 to tackle poverty head-on. Together they have researched poverty in depth and developed the Poverty Stoplight – which Martin will go into detail for us during the conversation. 

Fundación Paraguaya was named Latin America’s most impactful and innovative development organisation by the Inter-American Development Bank in 2018. El Pais recently named Dr. Burt as one of the “21 Latin Americans who are changing the world.” Whilst the Poverty Stoplight  (which is a key programme Martin is spearheading) is featured in the Solutions Insights Lab “What’s Working Solutions”. 

If that wasn’t enough – Martin holds a PhD from Tulane University in Development Economics and International Development, he is a Distinguished Visiting Professor of Entrepreneurship and Social Innovation at the Worcester Polytechnic Institute and Research Associate at University of California, Irvine.

In public service, Martin was elected Mayor of the capital city of Paraguay in the 1990s, he has served as Chief of Staff to the President of Paraguay, between 2012 to 2013 and was appointed Vice Minister of Commerce. Martin was also twice elected as the president of the Paraguayan-American Chamber of Commerce; and has written books on economics, development, municipal government, poetry, and education. Check out - “Who Owns Poverty?”

Links:
Poverty Stop Light - https://www.povertystoplight.org
Who Owns Poverty? - https://redpress.co.uk/products/who-owns-poverty
Martin's Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/martinburt/

And if you liked this do try: Reframing Poverty with Eric Meade: https://businessfightspoverty.org/eric-meade/

What will it take to stop poverty? with Martin Burt

How has the business agenda on equity evolved over the past 20 years? Meet Social Impact Pioneer and Business Fights Poverty Institute Founding Fellow – Jane Nelson.

Jane is the Founding Director of the Corporate Responsibility Initiative at Harvard Kennedy School and worked with the late Professor John Ruggie who developed the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business on Human Rights. She was a director and then senior advisor at The Prince of Wales International Business Leaders Forum (IBLF) from 1993 to 2013, and has been a senior associate with the Institute for Sustainability Leadership at Cambridge University and an adviser and track leader at the Clinton Global Initiative. In 2001, she worked with the United Nations Global Compact in the office of the UN Secretary-General, Kofi Annan, preparing his report for the General Assembly on cooperation between the UN and the private sector. She is currently a co-chair of the Business Commission to Tackle Inequality (BCTI).

Jane talks candidly about her incredible career to date and the shifting dynamics within corporate strategies towards integrating equity more fundamentally into business practices that have run in parallel. Jane has been at the table during many of the world’s pivotal conversations on societal impact in the past 30 years. She shares her insider highlights with us during this podcast conversation. 

Together with Business Fights Poverty Co-Founder and CEO, Zahid Torres-Rahman - they explore the evolution of the business and equity agenda. Jane looks back at the big trends over the past two decades and sheds light on how we navigate today’s complex challenges and transformative opportunities. Listen in to access deep insights and a dose of inspiration to guide you on your own journey, as this conversation underscores the increasing recognition of businesses’ role in fostering a more equitable economy.

Links:

Business Commission to Tackle Inequality: Tackling Inequality: An Agenda for Business Action: https://tacklinginequality.org/files/flagship.pdf

Business Fights Poverty: Generative AI and Social Impact - Role of Business: https://businessfightspoverty.org/report/generative-ai-and-social-impact-role-of-business/

Corporate Responsibility Initiative, Harvard Kennedy School: https://www.hks.harvard.edu/centers/mrcbg/programs/cri
and
https://www.hks.harvard.edu/faculty/jane-nelson

Living Wage Foundation: https://www.livingwage.org.uk

World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD): https://www.wbcsd.org

And if you like this, do take a listen to:

Combining Personal and Business Purpose with Hamzah Sarwar: https://businessfightspoverty.org/combining-personal-and-business-purpose-with-hamzah-sarwar/

The business agenda on equity with Jane Nelson, Harvard Kennedy School

Deep dive into the world of domestic work and what it means to empower domestic workers. Whether that’s cleaning, caring or generally working within the home or directly for one person or family, you will have been engaged in domestic work or know someone who is.  

The ILO estimates that 75.6 million people are engaged in domestic work around the world, and for women especially it can be an important source of income. But domestic work can be casual, without the support mechanisms many have come to rely on in decent work settings – from holiday and sick pay to safe working environment and safe working hours.   

Social Impact Pioneer Professor Jenny M. Hoobler has dedicated her academic life to unveiling the critical role of domestic work and workers in today's workforce and across all our societies.

Jenny is now the Professor of Human Resource Management and the Academic Director of Leadership for Social Impact Knowledge Center at NOVA School of Business and Economics in Portugal. Her CV and experience include completing her PhD in the USA, and time as a Professor at the University of Pretoria in South Africa. She has consulted for companies such as UPS and USG Corporation and is an associate editor of the Journal of Applied Psychology.

Jenny's insights into the employer-employee relationship within domestic work reveal a spectrum of experiences, from being the essential glue keeping everything going to exploitation. This episode aims to spark a conversation on the importance of formalising these relationships, ensuring fair wages, and recognising the vital role of domestic workers in supporting the so-called "100-hour couples" of today's workforce. This conversation is not just about acknowledging the challenges but also about championing change and recognising the profound impact of domestic work on our society.


Links:

https://www.ilo.org/global/topics/domestic-workers/lang--en/index.htm
Intl Labor Org on domestic worker numbers, etc.

ILO, Work on diverted mothering: https://www.ilo.org/global/topics/domestic-workers/lang--en/index.htm

Jenny's paper on domestic workers being intersectional: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/23322373.2015.1126499?casa_token=kEUWAUR9C48AAAAA%3Acp9NIOkDaQp9LWa-MCljSHPypinUXU8vDrXV09ANIxWe5yCDnek_1W9Jp_hICYI0uMsKhsV7LsFkvlk


 IDWFED - International Domestic Workers Federation: idwfed.org

Living wage calculator for South Africa: https://living-wage.co.za/

Jenny Hoobler: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-hoobler-8780754/

Nova SBE Leadership for Impact Knowledge Center: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/nova-sbe-leadership-for-impact-knowledge-center/


And if you liked this do try:

Revolutionising Maternal Health Supply Chains: Insights from MSD for Mothers: https://businessfightspoverty.org/revolutionising-maternal-health-supply-chains-insights-from-msd-for-mothers/

Empowering Domestic Workers with Jenny Hoobler

Climate change is a global health issue. Social Impact Pioneer, Desta Lakew joins us to share her insights on why Africa’s youthful population is a sick crisis waiting to explode if we don’t start thinking about health care rather than sick care. And how climate change is already deteriorating health in the areas she’s working on.

Desta is a powerhouse in forging global partnerships for Africa, playing a pivotal role in securing strategic alliances for Amref Health Africa. Since joining the Amref executive team in 2014, Desta has been at the forefront of thought leadership and external engagements, working tirelessly with global partners and Amref's senior leadership to drive transformative health initiatives across the continent.

Amref Health Africa is the largest health development non-governmental international organisation based in Africa. With over 2000 people working with them and operations in more than 8 countries within the continent. Amref is on a mission to catalyse and drive community-led and people centred health systems while addressing social determinants of health.

Desta’s instrumental role in launching the first biennial Africa Health Agenda International Conference in 2014 marked a significant milestone in facilitating a global south dialogue and knowledge exchange on Universal Health Coverage in Africa and Asia. Desta holds a Masters of Public Health from the State University of New York and serves on the regional advisory board for Acumen East Africa and the Thematic Working Group on Private Sector of Health Systems Global. Her commitment to health equity and her strategic vision for a healthier Africa make her a true pioneer in the field.

Join us as Desta Lakew shares her journey from Ethiopia to New York and back to Africa, her motivations, and her ongoing work to address the critical intersection of health and climate change, aiming to strengthen health systems and improve lives across the continent. Stay tuned as we explore the challenges, the victories, and the future of health in Africa with one of its most passionate advocates.

Links:
AMREF: https://amref.org
AMREF’s thoughts on Health and Climate Change: https://newsroom.amref.org/news/2024/04/amref-puts-a-spotlight-on-widening-climate-change-induced-health-inequalities-in-africa/
Africa Health Agenda International Conference (AHAIC2025): https://ahaic.org
Desta’s Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/destalakew/

And if you liked this, take a listen to:
Combining Personal and Business Purpose with Hamzah Sarwar: https://businessfightspoverty.org/combining-personal-and-business-purpose-with-hamzah-sarwar/

Climate change and global health with Desta Lakew

Katie Hyson, Director of Thought Leadership at Business Fights Poverty, talks with Emeritus Professor David Grayson, CBE, about his book, “All In: Why Sustainability is the Future of Business".  David shares his perspectives on business purpose, values and collaboration.

David’s experience delivering and advising on purposeful business includes being the founding CEO of the Prince's Youth Business Trust, he has served as managing-director of Business in the Community, is former chairman of one of the UK's larger social enterprises and largest eldercare providers, Housing & Care 21. David is currently chairman of the national charity Carers UK championing the role of 6.5million Britons caring for a loved one. David received an OBE for services to industry in 1994 and a CBE for services to disability in 1999.

During the interview David shares his thoughts on why business plays such a vital role in delivering societal impact, what has changed and why these are real business opportunities, quoting the late and great Peter Drucker, who in 1973 stated: “Every single social and global issue of our day, is a business opportunity in disguise.”

David also explains how the 20 years of research generated from the Globescan Sustainability Leaders survey and numerous leader interviews has shaped the new book he has co-authored with Chris Coulter and Mark Lee: The Future of Business Leadership. 

David, during this interview summarises the key findings from the book, including his practical advice to business CEOs; explaining authentic business purpose, forward looking innovation, openness to partnering and willingness to stand up and be counted through advocacy are vital elements for the long term success of big business.

David Grayson, Professor Emeritus, Cranfield School of Management

“Be the change you want to see in the world” Mahatma Gandhi

This podcast marks the 150th birthday of Mahatma Gandhi. On this day, 2nd October 2019, India will begin a nationwide ban of single use plastic.

Prathyusha Parakala, Hydrabad millennial, radio DJ and climate ambassador, joins us to share her first-hand experiences – about the wave of social and environmental actions sweeping across India.

To provide some background: in 2014 India became the first nation to make it mandatory for all companies with a net worth over US $70 million to spend a minimum of two percent of their average three year net profits on CSR. This sits alongside the ‘extended producer responsibility’ or EPR – where sellers of plastic and e-waste have a responsibility for collecting and recycling it. Both of these laws have since been tightened, with fines and possible imprisonment for non-compliance with the former and tighter monitoring and targets for the latter.  

During this interview Prathyusha explains why she cares about environmental impact and how her Antarctic expedition has set her on a journey to do everything she can to tackle climate change. And as the founder of the social impact trust Praana, which means Life, Prathyusha explores, during this podcast, how business and civil society are taking action and where this is being driven grassroots up. 

As Prathyusha says: We should never under estimate the power of like-minds coming together to tackle problems.

To find out more, Prathyusha can be found on twitter and instragram using the handle: @PrathyushaCFA18

Prathyusha Parakala, Hydrabad Millennial, Radio DJ, Climate Ambassador and Social Entrepreneur

Hello, and welcome to the Business Fights Poverty podcast, where we bring you engaging conversations with social impact trailblazers. Dive into a wealth of insights, diverse perspectives, and valuable advice, all designed to enlighten and inspire. Gain first-hand understanding of how businesses and thought leaders are addressing the world's most pressing social challenges, empowering you to make well-informed decisions and take meaningful action. So, sit back and join us as we explore the frontiers of business-driven social impact.

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