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. 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

In this episode, we’re hearing David Nicholson of Mercy Corps and Thomas Beloe from the UNDP talk human centred climate action. David Nicholson is the first-ever Chief Climate Officer at Mercy Corps. David joins us from the climate COP29 in Baku to share where he thinks business and human centred climate action have gotten to. Whilst Thomas Beloe, the Acting Director, Sustainable Finance Hub, UNDP records his piece shortly after the climate COP is finished and shares his thoughts on how climate action needs to move forward for everyone.

Both provide insider views on what it was like at the climate COP in Baku, how we can take action, and the role business and others can play in helping tackle climate change.

Mercy Corps’ climate-related programs have reached 5.9 million people in 2023, with ambitions to extend this impact to over 20 million by supporting high-impact climate startups and advancing their Climate: Possible campaign.

With over a decade of experience at Mercy Corps, David’s work spans continents and industries—from carbon finance projects in Uganda to green business program development in Colombia. He’s a driving force behind AgriFin, a groundbreaking initiative delivering digital solutions to over 7 million smallholder farmers across Africa, empowering them with tools like mobile banking, insurance products, and climate-smart agricultural advice.

Whilst Thomas has more than 25 years of experience in providing policy advice to governments across Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America and the Pacific. Tom Beloe leads UNDP’s Sustainable Finance Hub. In addition to global and regional roles on sustainable finance, Tom has also worked on governance, climate finance and responsible business practices. Previous to UNDP, Tom worked for think tanks, NGOs and the UK government’s Department for International Development (DFID). He has a master’s degree in Anthropology from Cambridge University and a Master’s in Social Policy and Planning from the London School of Economics.

Links:

Thomas, Beloe, UNDP: https://www.undp.org/authors/thomas-beloe

David Nicholson, Mercy Corps: https://www.mercycorps.org/en-gb/who-we-are/our-team/david-nicholson

Business Fights Poverty, Climate Justice: https://businessfightspoverty.org/climate-and-business

Welcome to Social Impact Pioneers – in this episode we delve into the intersection of climate change, human rights, and modern slavery. This conversation forms part of the Business Fights Poverty Climate Justice Series (links below) and takes place at the tail end of the climate COP29, Baku.

In this episode, we hear from Social Impact Pioneers: Chiara Soletti and Sizakele Marutlulle.

Chiara Soletti, Climate Change Advocacy Manager at Anti-Slavery International, is a leading voice on human rights and climate change. With expertise in migration, just transition, and modern slavery, Chiara works tirelessly to influence policy and integrate human rights into global climate action. As an official observer of the UN climate conferences, she brings vital perspectives on the growing risks of exploitation due to climate change impacts.

Sizakele Marutlulle, an award-winning business strategist and entrepreneur, shares her passion for using creativity to drive societal change. With over two decades of experience in leadership, brand strategy, and business development, Sizakele focuses on helping businesses become forces for positive impact. As a champion of Human Centric Creativism, she advocates for brands that prioritise human well-being and sustainable growth.

Together, Chiara and Sizakele provide invaluable insights into how businesses can address climate-related challenges while safeguarding human rights. In this episode, we explore how climate action can prevent the rise of modern slavery, the importance of ethical supply chains, and the role of business in driving positive social change.

Links:

Anti Slavery International: https://www.antislavery.org

Climate Change and Modern Slavery Hub: https://www.climate-modern-slavery-hub.org/

Anti Slavery International (Oct 2024). Launch of new climate change and modern slavery hub: https://www.antislavery.org/latest/launch-of-new-climate-change-and-modern-slavery-hub/

Chiara Soletti, Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chiarasoletti/

Sizakele Marutlulle: https://sizakelemarutlulle.com/

Business Fights Poverty and Climate Justice: https://businessfightspoverty.org/climate-and-business

As the climate COP29 in Baku concludes without much fanfare, understanding what was really going on is more important than ever. Business Fights Poverty Youth Ambassador, Malkia Johns sits down within the COP and speaks with two women’s health activists, Niona Nakuya and Terry Owino.

Niona, a reproductive health specialist and climate change advocate from Uganda, serves as the Programme Officer for Population Health, Environment, and Development at Regenerate Africa. Terry, a women's health and well-being advocacy lead from Kenya, is a passionate advocate for gender justice and climate inclusion.

Tune in as Niona and Terry share their unique perspectives on the intersection of women’s health, climate change, and social justice. From their work empowering women in Africa to navigate the impacts of climate change, to their efforts in advocating for gender equality and climate finance, both activists are at the forefront of human-centred climate action.

The conversation delves into their personal experiences at COP29, reflecting on the challenges and opportunities for developing countries like Uganda and Kenya. Niona discusses the Population Health and Environment model and its impact on grassroots communities, while Terry highlights the importance of addressing climate change from an intersectional perspective, focusing on the lived realities of women in the Global South.

Through their insights, this episode shines a light on how businesses can contribute to climate action through sustainable practices and social responsibility. As COP29 puts climate finance at the center of discussions, Niona and Terry provide crucial reflections on the importance of integrating health, gender, and community development into global climate policies.

Links:

Terry Owino's Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/terry-owino-2b28791b7/

Nakuya Niona Kasekende's Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nakuya-niona-kasekende-09167413a/

To find out more about the Climate Justice Series by Business Fights Poverty, check out: https://businessfightspoverty.org/resources/?_combined_categories=climate-justice

Meet two Social Impact Pioneers as they talk international development, climate resilience and the climate COP29 in Baku, Azebijan.

Simon Crittle, Director of Global Communications at iDE, brings nearly 30 years of expertise in journalism, government, and nonprofit communications. From his time as a New York correspondent for Time Magazine to serving as the UN World Food Programme’s spokesperson in Sudan, Simon’s journey reflects a commitment to impactful storytelling. Now leading communications for iDE—a global nonprofit innovating to end poverty—Simon travels the world, producing powerful content and managing a dynamic team.

Simon is joined by Kazi Jawad Hossain, iDE’s Climate, Resilience, and Agriculture Manager. Kazi leads global programs addressing climate, environment, and energy challenges, with a focus on empowering the world’s most vulnerable populations. Recorded live from COP 29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, this episode dives into the atmosphere and key developments at this pivotal climate conference.

Discover what sets this COP apart, from groundbreaking discussions on climate finance to critical advancements in loss and damage mechanisms. Kazi shares compelling insights into the urgency of inclusive climate solutions, spotlighting women entrepreneurs as catalysts for sustainable change. Learn how iDE’s ambitious 10-year strategy, Project Fury, aims to transform the lives of 1 million women entrepreneurs while scaling local private sector innovation.

Whether you’re passionate about climate action, intrigued by global development, or seeking inspiration to make a difference, this episode delivers. Don’t miss the chance to hear firsthand accounts from the frontlines of the climate crisis—and discover how we can all play a part in building a more resilient, equitable future.

Links:

Simon Crittle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simon-c-47b23952/

Kazi Jawoad Hossain: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kazijawoad/

iDE: https://www.ideglobal.org/

And for more from Business Fights Poverty on climate justice and many other topics affecting business and social impact: https://businessfightspoverty.org

In this special episode, we bring you exclusive insights straight from COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, with long-time Business Fights Poverty community members, Justin Perrettson and Katarina Kahlmann. As global leaders and changemakers convene to tackle the pressing challenges of climate change, Justin and Katarina share their experiences, expertise, and perspectives from inside the conference.

Justin Perrettson, Head of Partnerships and External Engagement at Novonesis and an Advisory Board Member for the UN Climate Technology Centre & Network, provides an insider’s look at the complexities of COP negotiations. With a focus on inclusive multilateralism, climate finance, and carbon pricing, Justin unpacks the significance of this year's "technical COP" and its role in driving global climate action. From securing funding for mitigation and adaptation to exploring technology solutions for the Global South, Justin highlights the urgency and interconnectedness of the process.

Katarina Kahlmann, Chief Program Officer at TechnoServe, shares her perspective on implementing regenerative business solutions worldwide. With over 2,000 employees across the Americas, Africa, and Asia, her work demonstrates how innovative approaches can build resilient, inclusive economies.

Amidst cautious optimism and geopolitical concerns, the conference is abuzz with discussions on AI’s potential to combat climate change and the transformative power of climate finance. While the quieter setting of Baku contrasts with past COPs, the focus here is clear: less fluff, more action.

Tune in to hear how COP29 is setting the stage for a pivotal COP30 in Brazil, and what it all means for business, policy, and the fight against climate change.

Brought to you by Business Fights Poverty.

To have your say join: https://forum.businessfightspoverty.org/t/climate-justice-community-forum-2024/5031 | Thursday 21st November | 3-4:15pm GMT

Welcome to a special episode of the "Social Impact Pioneers" podcast, where today, we're not just discussing change; we're living it. In this episode you will hear from Malkia Johns, Business Fights Poverty Youth Ambassador who is in Baku for the climate COP29. In this conversation Malkia talks with Zach Lubin, a recent graduate from the University of Glasgow and an environmental enthusiast.

Hailing from Kenya, Malkia is the Founder and Executive Director of Sauti Salama. She is an electrical engineer with a commitment to gender equality and youth inclusion in climate action. Over the next two weeks, she will be our host, bringing firsthand insights directly from the heart of the conference.

Hear diverse perspectives as Malkia engages with global delegates, shedding light on how businesses contribute to combating climate change and advocating for actionable solutions. With her passion and expertise, she aims to bridge gaps and foster conversations that lead to real, impactful change.

Today's episode we hear from Malkia and Zach Lubin, a recent graduate from the University of Glasgow and an environmental enthusiast, who shares his insights into the conference's dynamics and his personal experiences.

Hear first had what is going on at the Climate COP 29 in Azerbaijan from people there, on the ground, trying to make positive climate change, for people and planet happen.

Links:

Zach Lubin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachary-lubin-89b627ba/

Malkia John: https://www.linkedin.com/in/malkia-j-806989131/

Malkia live at climate COP29: https://www.youtube.com/live/0KUeOk2CSwY

Business Fights Poverty’s latest articles on climate, business and people: https://businessfightspoverty.org/resources/?_combined_categories=climate-justice

How do you turn an ambitious corporate commitment on social impact and inclusivity into reality? Meet Social Impact Pioneer Amanda Smith. Amanda is the Head of Community Impact at Diageo. Diageo is a global leader in premium drinks, renowned for its portfolio of over 200 iconic brands, including Johnnie Walker, Tanqueray, Guinness, and Smirnoff. Operating in nearly 180 countries and employing over 30,000 people worldwide.

At the heart of Diageo’s ethos is its Spirit of Progress plan, a commitment to sustainable growth through inclusive programs that empower individuals and communities. From business and hospitality skills training to innovative water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) initiatives, Diageo aims to create a positive impact where they operate. A key focus is championing diversity and inclusion, ensuring that 50% of beneficiaries in their community programs are women, thus enhancing opportunities for underrepresented groups.

Amanda is the lady behind turning this ambitious commitment into reality. With her extensive experience in creating inclusive programs, Amanda shares insights into how Diageo integrates social responsibility into its core business strategy. We’ll discuss the importance of inclusivity in WASH initiatives and how these efforts not only benefit women and girls but also strengthen communities.

As we navigate through Amanda’s journey and the impactful work at Diageo, you’ll discover why the time for social responsibility is now and how businesses can harness their influence to drive positive change. Amanda shares how Diageo have been actively addressing human rights and inclusion in their value chain for some time. With the emerging social impact regulations, including Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) coming into action in Europe – we talk about how Diageo has been preparing for it and why regulation doesn’t need to be all about risk and compliance.

Don’t miss this engaging conversation about innovation, inclusion, and the future of sustainable business practices.

Links:

Amanda Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-smith-99776b1b/

Diageo: https://www.diageo.com/en/our-business

Diageo, Inclusive Business Approach: https://www.diageo.com/en/esg/diversity-equity-and-inclusion/inclusive-community

Diageo and CARE International Partnership, Investing in water and empowering women through WASH in Kenya: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=luVVK1vLX5w

Task Force on Taskforce on Inequality and Social-related Financial Disclosures: https://www.tisfd.org

Oxford University, Leading Sustainable Corporations: https://www.sbs.ox.ac.uk/programmes/executive-education/online-programmes/oxford-leading-sustainable-corporations-programme

WaterAid: Integrating gender equality into community water, sanitation and hygiene projects – guidance notes: https://washmatters.wateraid.org/publications/integrating-gender-equality-into-community-water-sanitation-and-hygiene-projects

Wash4Work, CEO Water Mandate: WASH benefits accounting framework: https://ceowatermandate.org/publications/WASH-Framework-Summary.pdf

Diageo (2023), Human Rights, Global Policies: https://media.diageo.com/diageo-corporate-media/media/p1pnrolk/dia1857_a4_policies_global_human_rights_2023-update-v4.pdf

The Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) - Directive (EU) 2024/1760: https://www.corporate-sustainability-due-diligence-directive.com

And if you liked this, do take a look at: Business Fights Poverty, Global Goals Summit 2024, Driving ESG Innovation in the New Regulatory Context with Meta

https://businessfightspoverty.org/session/driving-esg-innovation-in-the-new-regulatory-context-with-meta/

Is sustainability now a choice between compliance and innovation for business? During a time of regulation, (CSRD, CSDDD to name just two), ESG scepticism and increasing societal pressures.

In this episode of Social Impact Pioneers, we talk with Dr. Mary Johnstone-Louis, Senior Fellow at the Saïd Business School, University of Oxford, and Co-Director of Oxford’s Sustainable Business Programme. Dr. Johnstone-Louis brings a wealth of experience from her work across five continents, focusing on corporate responsibility and sustainability in various contexts.

We dive into the crucial conversation around sustainability as a choice between compliance and innovation. Dr. Johnstone-Louis argues that businesses must view sustainability not just as a regulatory requirement but as a transformative opportunity for innovation and growth. She emphasises the importance of interdisciplinary approaches that incorporate science, politics, and strategy, especially as sustainability becomes more mainstream.

Our discussion also touches on the pivotal role of academia in shaping sustainable practices and educating future leaders. Dr. Johnstone-Louis believes that researchers can drive meaningful change by challenging conventional business norms and inspiring new perspectives on corporate governance and ethics.

Listeners will gain insights into the enablers and blockers in the sustainability landscape, from emerging trends to potential threats. Dr. Johnstone-Louis highlights the need for businesses to move beyond mere compliance to create value through innovative solutions that benefit society and the environment.

As we explore Dr. Johnstone-Louis's journey and her contributions to the evolving discourse on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria, we emphasise that effective sustainability practices are essential for long-term success. This episode is a must-listen for business leaders, academics, and anyone passionate about the intersection of business and sustainability.

Join us as we learn from one of the leading voices in corporate ethics and governance, and discover how you can be part of the solution for a more sustainable future.

Links:

Mary Johnstone-Louis: https://www.sbs.ox.ac.uk/about-us/people/mary-johnstone-louis

KPMG, 2024 Sustainability Organization Survey: https://kpmg.com/us/en/articles/2024/sustainability-organization-survey.html

IBM, How to create business value with embedded sustainability: https://www.ibm.com/thought-leadership/institute-business-value/en-us/report/sustainability-business-value

Colin Mayer, publications: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colin_Mayer

FT, Forget COP26 boasts — decarbonising takes thousands of tiny, boring steps: https://www.ft.com/content/1bca616e-3398-4599-8019-8cd688364d9e

Oxford University, Net Zero, Tracking Progress: https://netzeroclimate.org/innovation-for-net-zero/progress-tracking/

SME Climate Hub: https://smeclimatehub.org

Business Fights Poverty Global Goals Summit: https://businessfightspoverty.org/global-goals-summits

Business Fights Poverty workshop with Meta: DRIVING ESG INNOVATION IN THE NEW REGULATORY CONTEXT: https://businessfightspoverty.org/session/driving-esg-innovation-in-the-new-regulatory-context-with-meta/