Inspire Someone Today
E131| Go Beyond | Vanessa D'Souza
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Episode notes
Vanessa D'Souza's journey from a high-flying career in banking to leading SNEHA is nothing short of inspirational. Imagine working in the corporate world, only to have your perspective shifted by a stark encounter with urban malnutrition just a stone's throw from your office. Vanessa's story is a powerful reminder of how personal experiences can redefine our paths and drive us toward impactful social change. She shares how her independent upbringing in Mumbai cultivated a deep sense of responsibility, which later fueled her passion for empowering communities and championing sustainable change.
Our conversation with Vanessa taps into the heart of community empowerment, especially those facing challenges like domestic violence and malnutrition. We explore how the right tools and resources can transform individuals into catalysts of change within their communities, fostering resilience and self-sufficiency even after NGOs have moved on. Vanessa shares stories of how community role models, including sensitive men, play a pivotal role in this transformation, advocating for a collaborative approach that listens and adapts to the needs of those they aim to uplift.
This episode also dives deep into the nuances of leadership and innovation in the social sector. We reflect on the invaluable lessons Vanessa learned transitioning from corporate to community-focused work, emphasizing the importance of empathy, adaptability, and humility. From managing risks to experimenting with new strategies like a WhatsApp chatbot for democratizing knowledge, Vanessa offers insights into leading with a community-first mindset. Her reflections on setting boundaries and learning from setbacks provide a compelling narrative for anyone looking to make a meaningful impact, reminding us that true leadership is about listening and learning from every experience and interaction.
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