Social Impact Pioneers

Business Fights Poverty
  • 5.0 (3)
  • BUSINESS
Social Impact Pioneers

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.

  1. How social work combats poverty with Peter Buturo

    19 HR. AGO

    How social work combats poverty with Peter Buturo

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

    24 min
  2. Measuring impact and impact per dollar with Gilad Tanay

    JAN 16

    Measuring impact and impact per dollar with Gilad Tanay

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

    41 min
  3. Blockchain, food and supplychains with Antoinette and Sander

    JAN 9

    Blockchain, food and supplychains with Antoinette and Sander

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

    39 min
  4. Transformative Partnerships with Taryn from Cargill and Chris from CARE

    12/16/2024

    Transformative Partnerships with Taryn from Cargill and Chris from CARE

    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

    26 min
  5. David Nicholson,Mercy Corps and Thomas Beloe UNDP talk human centred climate action

    12/04/2024

    David Nicholson,Mercy Corps and Thomas Beloe UNDP talk human centred climate action

    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

    10 min
  6. Climate change, human rights, and modern slavery with Chiara and Sizakelle

    11/26/2024

    Climate change, human rights, and modern slavery with Chiara and Sizakelle

    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

    13 min
  7. Women's Health & Climate Justice at COP29 in Baku with Niona Nakuya and Terry Owino

    11/24/2024

    Women's Health & Climate Justice at COP29 in Baku with Niona Nakuya and Terry Owino

    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

    22 min
  8. Simon Crittle & Kazi Jawad Hossain on COP 29 and Tackling Poverty

    11/20/2024

    Simon Crittle & Kazi Jawad Hossain on COP 29 and Tackling Poverty

    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

    12 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Business Fights Poverty
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2025
  • Episodes
    198
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved
  • Show Website
    Social Impact Pioneers

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