The Social Change Career Podcast

Episode 2 of Season 15 dives into the fast-evolving world of social impact careers in emerging markets with Ann-Elise Francis—venture builder, impact investor, and innovator at Rippleworks. Hosted by Craig Zelizer, this conversation tracks Ann-Elise’s unique career journey from global studies and teaching in Bangkok to hands-on work scaling ventures across Africa and Latin America. Listen for practical insights on growing inclusive businesses, advancing financial inclusion, supporting women entrepreneurs, and navigating the realities of impact-driven work across complex environments. Why Take a Listen: Scaling Impact Ventures in Challenging Markets: Follow Ann-Elise’s trajectory from education to driving growth at Turaco, AZA Finance, and other ventures. See how she expanded micro-insurance and financial services for low-income communities and SMEs across Africa and Latin America. Funding & Inclusion—The Field Perspective: Candid discussion on the realities of startup funding, impact investing, and the hurdles women founders encounter in African markets. Ann-Elise shares her observations from angel investing and advice for those evaluating impact opportunities. Ecosystem Building for Sustainable Change: Concrete approaches for tackling operational challenges, building partnerships, and determining when external investment makes sense. Ann-Elise covers what locally led innovation demands for scale—and how capacity building fits in. Insider View on Rippleworks: Get a look into how Rippleworks works with ventures at critical growth moments, offering operational support and funding across sectors and geographies. Resource Section & Links Some key resource mentioned in the episode Rippleworks Foundation – Support for scaling social impact ventures, operational expertise, funding opportunities, and curated jobs. Women Who Build Africa – Network, events, and connections for women founders and tech entrepreneurs across Africa. Nairobi Business Angel Network (NaiBAN) – Angel investing group focused on African startups. Astia Angels – Investor community supporting women-led companies. Devex – Global development news and resources. TechCabal – Insights and reporting on Africa’s tech sector.   Bio Ann-Elise is an impact-driven leader, venture builder, and investor passionate about advancing financial inclusion and economic empowerment. With over a decade of experience scaling ventures and high-impact initiatives across Africa and Latin America, she specializes in operational strategy, market expansion, and investment readiness, helping ventures thrive in complex, emerging markets. She has led growth, partnerships, and operations across financial services, health, and climate resilience, with a proven track record of securing multi-million-dollar investments and structuring high-value collaborations that drive sustainable impact. Currently, Ann-Elise serves as Portfolio Sourcing Manager at Rippleworks Foundation, where she identifies and supports social ventures globally poised for scale. Previously, she was Head of Growth at Turaco, expanding inclusive insurance to over 1 million low-income customers. She also co-founded LendHer Capital, an impact fund supporting African women entrepreneurs. A 2023 Acumen Fund Fellow, she has also held key roles at AZA Finance, KadAfrica, SHONA, and Bpeace, driving SME growth and building high-impact ecosystems through strategic capital and partnerships.   🎧 Take a listen Check out almost 200 episodes of the Social Change Career Podcast for more stories from global changemakers: https://pcdn.global/listen 💡 Ready to go further? Join the PCDN Career Campus for job opportunities, community, sector-expert workshops, and exclusive learning—all for about the cost of a cup of coffee: https://pcdnglobal.beehiiv.com/c/career-campus More PCDN Resources 📬 Subscribe to the PCDN Career Digest Curated global jobs, funding, and resources for social impact careers https://pcdn.global/subscribe 🎙️ Listen to More Episodes Conversations with over 180 changemakers in 30+ countries https://pcdn.global/listen 🤖 Subscribe to the AI for Impact Newsletter Tools, jobs, and insights at the intersection of AI and social good https://impactai.beehiiv.com

Episode 1 of Season 15 features a conversation with  Kajsa Hendrickson, innovation and sustainability expert, partnership architect for People and Planet, and a dynamic bridge builder working across government, academia, nonprofits, and the private sector. Host Craig Zelizer explores Kajsa’s inspiring journey from international conflict studies to sustainability leadership, sharing honest advice and actionable steps for anyone interested in building a meaningful, resilient career in sustainability and social impact. Why Take a Listen & What You’ll Discover: Kajsa’s Global Career Rooted in Impact and Adaptability: Discover how Kajsa’s time abroad—including living through political upheaval in Thailand—ignited her passion for the edges where peace, conflict, and environmental sustainability intersect. Kajsa reflects on her academic background (BA in Global Politics, Washington State University; MA in Peace and Justice, Kroc School at University of San Diego), her decade of diverse experience, and why adaptability and proactive learning are career essentials. Grad School, Skills, and Navigating Sector Transitions: Kajsa gives real-world guidance on deciding whether graduate school is right for you—how to evaluate programs, leverage alumni networks, and combine academic experience with project management, stakeholder engagement, and fundraising chops. She shares highlights from roles with the Tennessee Valley Authority, Southern Company, Schneider Electric, and the Center for Sustainable Energy, plus advice for those navigating sector transitions. Sustainability Jobs, AI Disruption & Staying Sane: Get an inside look at the future of sustainability jobs, the disruptive influence of AI, and why skills like project management and stakeholder relations matter more than ever. Kajsa offers strategies for building resilience and sustaining hope while working for social and environmental justice—even amidst daunting challenges. Ready for real insights from a working sustainability leader? Check out resources mentioned in the show such as PCDN.Global sustainability podcasts like Volts and Bloomberg Green, and Kajsa’s LinkedIn for career tips. Don’t forget to explore over 200 episodes of Social Change Career Podcast for even more honest conversations with impact innovators from around the world—and subscribe and rate the show to help us reach more changemakers! Take a listen Check out almost 200 episodes of the Social Change Career Podcast for more stories from global changemakers: https://pcdn.global/listen 💡 Ready to go further? Join the PCDN Career Campus for job opportunities, community, sector-expert workshops, and exclusive learning—all for about the cost of a cup of coffee: https://pcdnglobal.beehiiv.com/c/career-campus More PCDN Resources 📬 Subscribe to the PCDN Career Digest Curated global jobs, funding, and resources for social impact careers https://pcdn.global/subscribe 🤖 Subscribe to the AI for Impact Newsletter Tools, jobs, and insights at the intersection of AI and social good https://impactai.beehiiv.com  

  Why take a listen? If you’re serious about building a high-impact career at the intersection of public-private partnerships, diplomacy, and sustainable development—or just curious about what it takes to make real change happen—this episode is for you. Dr. Craig Zelizer sits down with Marcela Ochoa Bernal, a global leader with deep experience in shaping policy, building international partnerships, and delivering impact that lasts. From playing “bankers” as a child in Colombia to influencing sustainable development strategies across borders, Marcela’s story is both inspiring and practical for anyone considering their next steps in social impact. What you’ll learn Systems Change in Action How Marcela has worked across government, NGOs, and the private sector to shape systems for good—leading programs that drive impact at both local and international levels. Funding Demystified Her insider’s perspective on how development funding really works, from Geneva boardrooms to grassroots communities, and what it takes to make resources deliver results for people. Sustainable Impact & Real Challenges Candid reflections on keeping projects alive beyond funding cycles—and why resilience, education, and mindset are as important as money. Global Career Insights From Universidad Externado de Colombia to Seoul National University, Marcela’s career path offers lessons in building bilateral and multilateral partnerships, winning competitive fellowships, and navigating international education. Building a Resilient Career (and Staying Sane) Marcela shares how she sustains hope and energy by staying connected to community, purpose, and the power of networks. About Marcela Ochoa Bernal Marcela Ochoa Bernal is a Colombian leader in diplomacy, development, and systems change. With a career spanning government service, nonprofit leadership, and multilateral cooperation, she has focused on designing and implementing programs that connect policy with people. She studied law at Universidad Externado de Colombia and completed graduate studies at Seoul National University, supported by prestigious international fellowships. Her work has included leadership roles with the British Embassy in Colombia, engagement with bilateral and multilateral partners, and advising on sustainable development, education, and inclusive growth. Marcela has also collaborated with initiatives such as Corporación Antioquia Presente, ProAntioquia, and has contributed to global policy through the OECD Development Assistance Committee (DAC). Her approach combines rigorous policy knowledge with grassroots understanding, making her a bridge-builder across systems and cultures. Resources & Links Mentioned Marcela Ochoa Bernal on LinkedIn PCDN.global Social Change Career Podcast — Nearly 200 Episodes British Embassy in Colombia Chevening Scholarships Fulbright Program Rhodes Scholarship DAAD – German Academic Exchange Service Knight-Hennessy Scholars at Stanford ProFellow KOICA (Korea International Cooperation Agency) JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency) Universidad del Norte Corporación Antioquia Presente ProAntioquia OECD Development Assistance Committee (DAC) PCDN Career Campus — Join for daily access to jobs, community, and learning English No Speak Pues Campaign (Medellín – via ProAntioquia collaboration) 🎧 Take a listen Check out almost 200 episodes of the Social Change Career Podcast for more stories from global changemakers: https://pcdn.global/listen 💡 Ready to go further? Join the PCDN Career Campus for job opportunities, community, sector-expert workshops, and exclusive learning—all for about the cost of a cup of coffee: https://pcdnglobal.beehiiv.com/c/career-campus More PCDN Resources 📬 Subscribe to the PCDN Career Digest Curated global jobs, funding, and resources for social impact careers https://pcdn.global/subscribe 🎙️ Listen to More Episodes Conversations with over 180 changemakers in 30+ countries https://pcdn.global/listen 🤖 Subscribe to the AI for Impact Newsletter Tools, jobs, and insights at the intersection of AI and social good https://impactai.beehiiv.com  

Season 14, Episode 12 of the Social Change Career Podcast spotlights Natalia Uribe—architect, artist, and founder of Urban World Matters. From her creative roots in Medellín to delivering transformative urban projects on four continents, Natalia’s career is a story of purpose, resilience, and a commitment to empowering local communities and youth in the built environment. Why take a listen? Natalia shares honest reflections, practical tools, and visionary thinking for anyone passionate about cities and social change. If you care about creating better urban spaces, influencing local action on a global scale, or forging a more meaningful career—this episode is packed with fresh ideas and real-world advice. What you'll learn: From Medellín to the World: How Natalia turned her drive for freedom and creativity into an international career, blending arts, architecture, and systems thinking to tackle urban challenges in over 25 countries. Making Participation Real: Concrete examples of genuine community engagement, including her Journey Lab approach that empowers youth and neighborhood actors to co-create solutions that last. Urban World Matters in Action: Get the inside scoop on her ambitious platform’s work—like their youth labs, global engagement programs, and how you can plug in as a partner, expert, or supporter. Careers & Resources: Natalia breaks down the different global career paths in urban action—architecture, policy, planning, placemaking—and shares plenty of resources for learning and networking. Resources in the episode: Connect with Natalia Uribe on LinkedIn Urban World Matters PCDN.global World Economic Forum The World Bank UN-Habitat UNDP (United Nations Development Programme) ISOCARP (International Society of City and Regional Planners) The DNA of Cities podcast Senseable Cities podcast Whether you’re working in cities, dreaming of a global impact career, or want to see what’s possible when design and social action meet, this episode brings stories and insights you’ll want to carry forward. About Natalia Uribe Natalia Uribe is an architect, artist, and urbanist with over 20 years of international experience. She specialises in cities, with advanced studies from the London School of Economics (LSE). Her work spans regional strategies, urban regeneration, and small-scale interventions across the Middle East, Asia, Latin America, and Europe, covering more than 25 countries. Her career bridges design, social ecosystems, and environmental sustainability. She has led multidisciplinary teams at globally recognised organisations including Benoy, Gillespies, and AFK, where she delivered award-winning masterplans and urban design projects in collaboration with NGOs, public institutions, and private sector clients. In 2023, she founded Urban World Matters, a global platform where design, local action, and global impact investment converge to improve quality of life and protect life on Earth. Rooted in the Sustainable Development Goals, UWM champions local leadership and youth engagement through initiatives like the Future Urban Crafters and Journey Lab programs—opening access to sustainable urban services in underserved communities and empowering youth to address local challenges. Under Natalia’s leadership, Urban World Matters aims to open 100 Youth Labs by 2030, connecting grassroots action with a global network of experts and redefining how cities evolve into sustainable ecosystems. Based in London, Natalia leads with a global mindset and is committed to mentoring emerging leaders in sustainable urbanism.   PCDN Resources Subscribe to the PCDN Career Digest Curated global jobs, funding, and resources for social impact careers https://pcdn.global/subscribe Listen to More Episodes Conversations with over 180 changemakers in 30+ countries https://pcdn.global/listen Subscribe to the AI for Impact Newsletter Tools, jobs, and insights at the intersection of AI and social good https://impactai.beehiiv.com

This episode features  Hun Taing, an executive leader, innovator, coach, and Cambodian genocide survivor, sharing her extraordinary journey of building a career at the intersection of justice and healing. Drawing from over 20 years in labor rights, public health, civil rights, and organizational transformation, Hun opens up about personal resilience, the power of humanizing conflict, and practical strategies for meaningful impact in turbulent times. Why Take a Listen  Hun’s story as a Cambodian genocide survivor and refugee—and how her lived experiences instilled a lifelong dedication to equity and healing. Actionable insights on entering and advancing in social change careers, including labor organizing, conflict transformation, DEI, and public service. Navigating challenges to equity and inclusion in today’s climate, and strategies for advocating sustainable change in bureaucratic systems. Hun’s career trajectory from activism and the labor movement (SEIU, ACLU) to systems-level inclusion and leadership consulting via Training for Transformation. The transformative role of mindfulness, art, and community-based programs (like healing gardens for refugee elders) in building resilient organizations and individuals. Advice for selecting values-aligned advanced education and tips for job seekers managing uncertainty in competitive markets. Resources on healing, art, and reconciliation, including Hun’s master’s thesis and research in Cambodia. Practical encouragement for working within, on, or around systems, and tools for sustaining yourself and your community in uncertain times. Featured Resources Mentioned in the Podcast Memories of Cambodia (Hun’s Story on YouTube) Training for Transformation, LLC SEIU (Service Employees International Union) ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union) School for International Training (SIT) “The Way Out Is In” podcast (Thich Nhat Hanh/Plum Village) Connect with Hun on LinkedIn   About Hun Taing: Hun Taing (she/her) is passionate about building healthy and effective organizations to lead meaningful change. For more than twenty years, she has served in executive leadership roles, driving organizational transformation in labor rights, environmental justice, civil rights, and public health. She finds fulfillment in coaching social change leaders to identify and transform behavior patterns that are hindering their goals. Her work centers on aligning policy, people, and practice to build inclusive, mission-driven institutions. She is a Chinese-Cambodian genocide survivor and refugee, married to a Black man from Oakland, and raising three children. Joy comes from mindfulness, gardening, and deep connections with people and nature.   PCDN Resources Subscribe to the PCDN Career Digest Curated global jobs, funding, and resources for social impact careers https://pcdn.global/subscribe Listen to More Episodes Conversations with over 180 changemakers in 30+ countries https://pcdn.global/listen Subscribe to the AI for Impact Newsletter Tools, jobs, and insights at the intersection of AI and social good https://impactai.beehiiv.com

This episode of the Social Change Career Podcast features a thoughtful and practical conversation between Craig Zelizer and Brad Smith, founder of Rootstock Philanthropy and the Philanthropy Network. Brad’s entry into fundraising was unplanned—driven by financial necessity—but evolved into a decades-long career advising institutions like MIT, the Portland Museum of Art, Suffolk University, and the Partnership on AI. In this episode, Brad shares hard-earned lessons on how to build a meaningful and sustainable career in philanthropy, even amid burnout, changing donor landscapes, and rising ethical questions. What the episode covers: • How to enter the fundraising world without prior experience • Why early-career professionals should prioritize mentorship and learning environments • Behind-the-scenes lessons from major campaigns at institutions like MIT • How to assess nonprofit culture and avoid burnout • Building authentic donor relationships grounded in ethics and gratitude • Clarifying the roles of fundraising, development, and advancement • The limits of philanthropy without systemic public policy change • How AI and tech are shaping (and challenging) the future of fundraising   Resources and links mentioned in the episode: • Rootstock Philanthropy – Brad’s consultancy focused on campaign strategy, coaching, and organizational growth https://www.rootstockphilanthropy.org • The Philanthropy Network (LinkedIn Group) – A free global community of over 120,000 nonprofit and fundraising professionals https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13605390/ • The Soul of Money by Lynne Twist – A foundational book on aligning money with purpose and humanity https://soulofmoney.org/books/ • Wealth in Families by Charles Collier – A guide to values-based family giving and stewardship https://www.charlescollier.info/book • Winners Take All by Anand Giridharadas – A critique of how elite philanthropy often perpetuates inequality https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781101972670/winnerstakeall • Trust-Based Philanthropy Project – A resource hub for funders and nonprofits advancing equity and transparency https://www.trustbasedphilanthropy.org/ • AFP Global (Association of Fundraising Professionals) – The professional home for fundraisers, offering certifications, trainings, and ethical standards https://afpglobal.org/ • Philanthropy.Network – Brad’s digital platform offering curated content and updates for fundraising leaders https://philanthropy.network • Philanthropy Network Academy – Online learning and cohort-based development for fundraisers and nonprofit professionals https://www.philanthropy.network/academy   About Brad Smith Brad is the founder of Rootstock Philanthropy, a global fundraising and strategy consultancy working with mission-driven organizations. He also leads the Philanthropy Network, a 120,000+ member learning community. His clients include MIT, World Horse Welfare, the Portland Museum of Art, and the Partnership on AI. Whether you're new to fundraising, considering a career shift, or leading within a nonprofit—this episode delivers candid insights and practical tools for building a career with purpose.  PCDN Resources Subscribe to the PCDN Career Digest Curated global jobs, funding, and resources for social impact careers https://pcdn.global/subscribe Listen to More Episodes Conversations with over 180 changemakers in 30+ countries https://pcdn.global/listen Subscribe to the AI for Impact Newsletter Tools, jobs, and insights at the intersection of AI and social good https://impactai.beehiiv.com

This episode of The Social Change Career Podcast features Bethany Hull, a global finance expert with over 15 years of experience across sovereign debt, venture capital, and impact investing. Her career has taken her from rural Missouri to leading projects across Latin America and Asia—working in English, Mandarin, Spanish, and Portuguese. Bethany’s path challenges conventional ideas of what a finance career looks like and shows how language, agility, and purpose can shape meaningful work. Why Take a Listen Learn how a career can evolve through unexpected roles and geographic pivots—and how to stay open to the opportunities that follow. Hear how finance can be used as a tool for inclusive development, not just profit. Understand core finance concepts—venture capital, blended finance, climate investment—without the jargon. Explore emerging sectors like employee ownership and agricultural finance, and where new opportunities are growing. Get concrete advice on selecting graduate programs, building essential financial skills, and navigating careers at the intersection of finance and impact. Resources and Links from the Episode Bethany Hull on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethanyhull/ Bethany’s New: Global Finance Jobs https://globalfinancejobs.beehiiv.com/subscribe ImpactAlpha – News and trends in impact investing https://impactalpha.com/ FT Alphaville – Markets and economics analysis https://www.ft.com/alphaville Bloomberg Odd Lots Podcast https://www.bloomberg.com/odd-lots Ownership Works – Equity and employee ownership models https://www.ownershipworks.org ICMA – Capital market certifications and training https://www.icmagroup.org VC University https://venturecapitaluniversity.com/ Venture Deals Course https://venturedeals Capital Isn’t (Podcast) https://www.capitalisnt.com/ The Salt Path Trilogy (Books by Raynor Winn)   More from PCDN Subscribe to the PCDN Career Digest Curated global jobs, funding, and resources for social impact careers https://pcdn.global/subscribe Listen to More Episodes Conversations with over 180 changemakers in 30+ countries https://pcdn.global/listen Subscribe to the AI for Impact Newsletter Tools, jobs, and insights at the intersection of AI and social good https://impactai.beehiiv.com About Bethany Hull Bethany Hull is an international finance professional with 15+ years of experience across sovereign debt, early-stage venture capital, and impact investing. She has worked throughout Latin America and Asia, leading cross-functional teams and managing complex initiatives in multilingual, multicultural environments. A graduate of The Fletcher School’s Master’s in International Business, she is fluent in Mandarin, Spanish, and Portuguese, and is passionate about using finance and entrepreneurship to support inclusive economic growth.  

In this episode, Craig Zelizer talks with Ilco van der Linde, a Dutch social entrepreneur, storyteller, and founder of multiple global movements including Dance for Life, MasterPeace, and Ocean Love. From organizing some of the largest public festivals in the Netherlands to driving emotional, community-rooted innovation for ocean protection, Ilco shares what it takes to build movements that not only spark change but sustain it. This conversation explores personal and planetary transformation, how movements scale, and why love—and not fear—is often the most powerful catalyst for action. Whether you're leading a social enterprise, working in climate, or figuring out how to live with purpose, this episode offers hard-earned wisdom, strategy, and inspiration. Why take a listen Ocean Love Innovation Awards: What it means to build the most inclusive global initiative to spark solutions for our oceans—open to individuals and teams from any background, anywhere in the world Turning pain into purpose: How Ilco's experience as a diver witnessing coral bleaching and plastic-filled oceans led him to launch a new global platform Sustainable change requires systems thinking: From individual behavior to corporate accountability and government policy, what levers really shift the needle Practical optimism: How to lead without burning out, stay grounded in values, and work in ways that regenerate both the planet and yourself Building social movements with soul: Reflections on 40 years of activism and organizing—from HIV prevention to global peacebuilding to climate Advice for impact careers: Ilco shares tips for launching bold projects, building teams, attracting funding, and learning to live with financial and emotional uncertainty Resources from the podcast Ocean Love Innovation Award Open to applicants worldwide until September 30, 2025. Seeking creative, actionable ideas that protect oceans, rivers, biodiversity, or marine life. More info and to apply: https://oceanlove.news Ocean Love on Instagram For visual stories, campaign updates, and community calls: https://www.instagram.com/oceanlovenews Mandela House, Amsterdam A hub for social change, community, and cultural programming built on the values of Ubuntu. Visitors welcome. Website: https://mandelahuisje.nl Dance for Life Global youth movement using music and dance to promote sexual and reproductive health. https://www.dance4life.com MasterPeace Creative peacebuilding movement in over 50 countries connecting young people through music, art, and dialogue. https://masterpeace.org WaterBear Network Free streaming platform focused on environmental films and documentaries. https://waterbear.com Sea Shepherd Mentioned during the episode as a partner in ocean protection and direct action. https://seashepherd.org Project Drawdown Cited as a source for climate solution frameworks. https://drawdown.org Carbon Collective Example of climate-aligned investing referenced in the conversation. https://www.carboncollective.co Global Alliance for Banking on Values For those interested in ethical banking and investment. https://www.gabv.org More from PCDN Subscribe to the PCDN Career Digest Daily or weekly, human-curated global opportunities—jobs, fellowships, events, funding, and more for social impact professionals. https://pcdn.global/subscribe Listen to the Social Change Career Podcast Over 180 episodes with social entrepreneurs, changemakers, and innovators from 30+ countries. https://pcdn.global/listen Subscribe to the AI for Impact Newsletter Explore ethical AI tools, impact jobs, funding, and stories at the intersection of tech and purpose. https://impactai.beehiiv.com BIO Ilco van der Linde is a Dutch social entrepreneur, storyteller, and movement builder. He is the founder of the Bevrijdingsfestivals (Liberation Day Festivals), which attract over 1 million annual visitors in the Netherlands. He co-founded dance4life, active in 30 countries, and MasterPeace, a global peacebuilding initiative in 50 countries He also founded the Mandela House in Amsterdam, a hub for community and social impact; authored Be a Nelson (Lemniscaat); and writes for The Optimist magazine and National Geographic Travel. His latest initiative, OceanLove, along with the OceanLove Innovation Award, is a global platform mobilizing emotional connection and action to protect the ocean. The work is rooted in one core belief: people protect what they love—and lasting change starts from the heart.  

In this episode, Dr. Craig Zelizer speaks with Dr. Soraya Caro Vargas, a leader in industrial policy, gender equity, and international cooperation. From serving as Colombia’s Vice Minister of Business Development to designing the country’s first industrial policy in two decades, Soraya brings a rich, cross-sectoral perspective on how to build more inclusive and sustainable economies in the Global South. Based in Bogotá, with academic roots in Colombia, Italy, and India, Soraya shares how her experiences in government, academia, and diplomacy have shaped her career—and her deep commitment to bringing policy closer to people and territory. Why Listen Industrial policy in practice: What it takes to design and implement a national policy aligned with energy transition, health, defense, and bioeconomy goals Leadership as a woman in male-dominated fields: How Soraya navigates power, gender dynamics, and systemic barriers while staying grounded in ethics The unexpected PhD journey: Doing a doctorate at Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) as a diplomat’s spouse—and why it's not just about the title, but about building knowledge Why territory matters in policy: “You cannot govern from the desk in Bogotá” — how she helped shift Colombia’s national policy toward more localized and inclusive processes Skills for impact: Communication, negotiation, working across sectors, and how to learn them through practice, not just theory Featured in the Episode UNAD - Universidad Nacional Abierta y a Distancia: Colombia’s National Open University, leading virtual and hybrid education for over 300,000 learners Colombia’s Reindustrialization Policy: A national strategy centered on energy transition, health innovation, bioeconomy, and defense ACOPI - Asociación Colombiana de las Micro, Pequeñas y Medianas Empresas: Represents Colombia's small and medium-sized businesses and played a key role during the FTA negotiations Latin American Women Leaders Network (private initiative): A high-level network of 600+ women shaping policy, enterprise, and academia OECD Work on Informality: Referenced in Soraya’s experience with informality in policy contexts ProColombia: Colombia’s national trade, tourism, and investment promotion agency   More from PCDN Make your inbox amazing with our new Career Digest subscription option—for less than the cost of a cup of coffee per month. Delivered 5–6 days a week, you’ll get over 200 human-curated opportunities every month—including jobs, fellowships, funding options, impact news, socent opps, trainings, remote roles and more. Whether you're just starting or looking to advance, this digest provides the world’s best human-curated impact opportunities to fuel your career. Interested in subscribing for a group or organization? Get in contact. Other Terrific PCDN Resources Social Change Career Podcast: Access over 180 episodes featuring changemakers worldwide. https://pcdn.global/listen AI for Impact Newsletter: Sign up to get jobs, funding, consultancies, tools, tips, and ethical insights around AI + impact. https://impactai.beehiiv.com/ PCDN Free Weekly Impact Newsletter: Explore global social impact jobs, funding, and opportunities. https://pcdn.global/subscribe  

Navigating a career in the ever-changing world of social impact work can be a wild ride, especially now.  In this episode of the Social Change Career Podcast, we talk about how to manage with the crisis caused by the devastating and cruel cuts to USAID and other orgs. This session features four leading impact sector experts  Caroline Ouwerkerk, Spencer Campbell,  Julia Firestone and Craig Zelizer. Whether you're figuring out your next steps or trying to make the most of your current situation, this episode offers insights to help you breathe, plan, and act. Why listen to this episode? Strategic Pivoting: Get down-to-earth advice from dealing with this brutal period, tips for pivoting and finding your next role.   Networking as a Tool: Why Purpose driven networking is key. Mindful Resilience: Pick up simple, practical tips for staying sane in this challenging time. Practical Resources: Tons of resources for upskilling , including how to showcase what makes you unique in the job market. And Much more Meet the Speakers: Caroline Ouwerkerk: Caroline’s passion is helping folks find roles that truly matter through actionable insights and support. LinkedIn Website Spencer Campbell: Spencer's all about connecting job seekers with opportunities that matter even when the job market seems tough. LinkedIn Website Julia Firestone: Julia offers her expertise to help you find a career that fuels your passion and makes a difference in the world. LinkedIn Website Craig Zelizer: Founder of PCDN.Global, three decades tri-sectoral experience in al things impact careers.  LinkedIn Website   Resources and Links: PCDN.global: Your go-to place for all things social change careers. PCDN Job Board: Browse jobs that are making a difference globally. PCDN Career Digest & Career Campus: Sign up for daily updates and join a community passionate about impact. Impact Coach: 30 + Amazing Impact Career Coaches. Make Any Job a Social Impact Job - Caroline’s Workshop: Insights into making your work meaningful no matter the role. Transferable Skills Don’t Exist: Find the Core - Spencer’s Post: Discover how to leverage your unique skills in new ways. Make your inbox amazing with our new Career Digest subscription option for less than the cost a cup of coffee per month.   Like our Weekly Free Newsletter, but with even more value. Delivered 5–6 days a week, you’ll get over 200 human curated opportunities every month—including jobs, fellowships, funding options, impact news, socent opps trainings, remote roles and more. Whether you're just starting or looking to advance, this digest provides the world’s best human-curated impact opportunities to fuel your career. Interested in subscribing for a group or organization. Get in contact. Other PCDN Resources   Social Change Career Podcast: Access over 180 episodes featuring changemakers worldwide. Available at https://pcdn.global/listen or any major podcast platform. Sign up for our Free AI for Impact Newsletter - Get amazing AI for Impact jobs, funding, consultancies, tools, tips and ethical insights. PCDN Free Weekly Impact Newsletter: Explore global social impact jobs, funding, and opportunities. Sign up here Join us at PCDN.global and become part of our Career Campus. It’s the perfect place to get exclusive resources, connect with like-minded pros, and get expert career advice designed just for impact professionals.