Immersed in her privileged life in apartheid South Africa, Ronni Kahn never imagined she would become a leader in the fight against food waste and hunger. She went from one bold leap to the next—leaving a kibbutz in Israel to start from scratch in a new country, then building a successful business only to leave it to start a nonprofit. In this episode, Ronni shares the pivotal moments and challenges that led her to find her true calling, the importance of taking risks, and the powerful impact of small acts of kindness.

Ronni Kahn is a South African-born Australian social entrepreneur, passionate activist, and the founder of OzHarvest, Australia’s leading food rescue charity. In 2020, she co-authored her memoir, A Repurposed Life, which was nominated for an ABIA award for Biography Book of the Year.

In this episode, Ilana and Ronni will discuss:

- Ronni's upbringing in apartheid South Africa

- The values of resilience from her parents

- Adapting from a kibbutz in Israel to life in Australia

- The value of experimentation for entrepreneurs

- Going from zero to a successful event planning business

- The food waste revelation that led to OzHarvest

- Overcoming doubts and finding purpose

- The jump from business to nonprofit

- Why you must seize opportunities

- The value of small acts of kindness

- Taking risks and following your passion

- And other topics…

Ronni Kahn is the founder and Visionary In Residence at OzHarvest, Australia’s leading food rescue charity. After witnessing significant food waste in her successful events management business, she founded the organization in 2004 to combat hunger and reduce waste. A passionate advocate and activist, she has earned numerous awards, including being named Australia’s Local Hero in 2010. She has also been appointed Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) and named in Boss Magazine's Top 21 True Leaders. In 2020, she co-authored her memoir, A Repurposed Life, which was nominated for an ABIA award for Biography Book of the Year.

Connect with Ronni:

Ronni’s Website: https://ronnikahn.com/

Ronni’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronni-kahn/

Ronni’s Email: ronni@ronnikahn.com

Resources Mentioned:

Ronni’s Book, A Repurposed Life: https://www.amazon.com/Repurposed-Life-Ronni-Kahn/dp/1911632949

Write to Ilana: ilana@leapacademy.com

Ending Hunger: How This Accidental Activist Found Her Passion | Ronni Kahn | E37