Decades after Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) emerged, a compelling new identity is stepping firmly into the spotlight – the social impact leader.
They’re driven by the life-changing impact of deeply personal moment in time, a series of belief moments, or an unshakable conviction that change is needed to combat the risks facing society.
What is a social impact leader?
A social impact leader is a visionary, progressive and person-centred professional who believes change is necessary, and possible.
In fact, it’s this undercurrent of optimism that matters. To apply a quote from Karni Liddell, an Australian Paralympic swimmer and former World Record holder, social impact leaders believe “one person can make a difference.” (watch her TEDx Talk here).
Karni, who has a neuromuscular condition, was our ambassador for the 2022 Brisbane Disability Expo. We’ve been inspired by her story because she’s fuelled by hope that all people can live their best lives regardless of their challenges.
In fact, hope is a common theme we’ve identified when working with social impact leaders from diverse backgrounds, industries and sectors.
You’ll find people identifying as a social impact leader at CSR and community development organisations, charities, NFPs and NGOs, professional services firms, corporates, education institutions, social enterprises, government agencies, religious organisations, investment firms and foundations.
What else do social impact leaders have in common?
In addition to hope, optimism and personal conviction, we’ve also found social impact leaders…
- Think globally and locally, aligning their vision and passion with frameworks like the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
- Don’t expect government, or “someone else,” to lead change.
- Believe new systems are needed to transform lives. For example, a paper by the University of Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership argues we need “rewire the economy.”
- Look forward, not back. Social progress, change and greater equality and diversity is better for everyone.
- Actively explore how business of all types can deliver positive social outcomes, carefully balancing profit and purpose.
It’s a long list of attributes, and there’s plenty we’ve not included for the sake of brevity.
So, what about you? Are you a social impact leader? What long-term, sustainable change is on your radar? Like a good journalist, we’re all ears and this story is only just beginning.
Written by: Mark Jones and David Jack.
Ready to increase your social impact?
At ImpactInstitute, we partner with clients to support, resource and enable their impact journey. Contact us if you’d like to discuss how your organisation can become impact-driven.