E4S13 Decolonization and Social Change Careers
The Social Change Career Podcast
Release Date: 10/25/2024
The Social Change Career Podcast
In this episode, Craig Zelizer talks with , a Dutch social entrepreneur, storyteller, and founder of multiple global movements including Dance for Life, , and . 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...
info_outlineThe Social Change Career Podcast
In this episode, Dr. Craig Zelizer speaks with , 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...
info_outlineThe Social Change Career Podcast
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...
info_outlineThe Social Change Career Podcast
In this episode of the Social Change Career Podcast, Dr. Craig Zelizer sits down with the inspiring . As a visionary leader and founder of impactful organizations like . and and serving as an , Yura shares their compelling journey of weaving together art, activism, and collective liberation to create lasting social impact. Why You Should Listen: Art as Activism: Discover how Yura's work with Liberate Inc. uses the arts to advance racial, social, and climate justice. Learn about their groundbreaking initiatives that empower BIPOC creatives through grants, education, and organizing efforts. ...
info_outlineThe Social Change Career Podcast
Join us for Season 14, Episode 4 of the Social Change Career Podcast, featuring , a global leader working at the intersection of environmental policy, peacebuilding, and youth leadership. Natalia shares her multifaceted career at the intersection of water, peace, and sustainability. She highlights the importance of a long-term vision, nurturing relationships, and pursuing further education, such as her involvement in the . Whether you're just starting your career or looking to pivot into a field focused on making a difference, particulary in sustainability and impact, this is a...
info_outlineThe Social Change Career Podcast
Take a listen to Season 14, Episode 3 of the Social Change Career Podcast featuring an AI super connector designed to help people navigate their careers, build meaningful connections, and find opportunities in impact sectors. Why Listen? Learn how AI can support impact professionals in challenging times. Explore the role of AI-driven career networking in fostering real human connections. Gain insights into how Boardy facilitates double opt-in networking to help professionals find aligned collaborations. Hear about the rise of AI in impact careers and how professionals can adapt. ...
info_outlineThe Social Change Career Podcast
Take a listen to Season 14, Episode 2 of the featuring , a leading nonprofit fundraising consultant with extensive experience mobilizing resources for African NGOs, international organizations, and social enterprises. Why Tune In? Learn practical strategies for resource mobilization and financial sustainability for African NGOs. Explore how local nonprofits can strengthen fundraising capacity to access global funding and thrive. Gain insights into donor cycles, grant writing, and business development tailored for the Global South. Learn the skills needed to build a career connected to...
info_outlineThe Social Change Career Podcast
Join us for Season 14, Episode 1 of the Social Change Career Podcast which features , an accomplished impact investor and business leader, who shares insights on creating purpose-driven ventures that tackle global challenges while delivering financial returns. Whether you're an aspiring changemaker or a seasoned professional looking to align your career with your values, this conversation offers practical advice and fresh perspectives. Why Take a Listen? Discover strategies for navigating and growing in the evolving field of impact careers. Learn practical advice on aligning your values...
info_outlineThe Social Change Career Podcast
This episode of the Social Change Career Podcast features a powerful conversation with , a leader in atrocity prevention and human rights advocacy. As the final episode of 2024, this discussion dives deep into careers at the intersection of peacebuilding, advocacy, and strategic change-making. Mike brings years of expertise, having worked across the U.S., Rwanda, South Sudan, and other conflict zones. He has supported civil society organizations with strategic planning, program development, and policy advocacy. Currently, Mike teaches mass atrocity prevention at Georgetown...
info_outlineThe Social Change Career Podcast
This episode of the Social Change Career Podcast dives into the world of climate and sustainability careers with , co-founder and CEO of . ClimateBase is a global platform connecting people to impactful jobs, resources, and a community of climate professionals. Evan shares his journey from entrepreneur to climate advocate, offers practical advice for breaking into the sector, and discusses how ClimateBase empowers individuals to build purpose-driven careers. Note, Climatebase ran a small sponsored post in PCDN's Newsletter and Linkedin Channels to help recruit for their cohort seven of...
info_outlineEpisode 4, Season 13 of the Social Change Career Podcast features, Mara Tissera Luna, a leading expert in child protection, forced migration, and gender-based violence, discusses how decolonization is reshaping social change careers. With over 15 years of experience, Mara shares practical insights into building a meaningful career in international development, advocating for more equitable and inclusive approaches.
Why Take a Listen:
- Learn how decolonization can transform your approach to social change and international cooperation.
- Gain insights from Mara’s global career journey, working across continents on child rights and forced migration.
- Discover valuable tips on starting and growing a consulting career, from setting consulting rates to managing international projects.
Key Resources:
- Mara Tissera Luna on LinkedIn – Connect with Mara.
- Georgetown University’s Collaborative on Global Children's Issues – Learn more about her fellowship.
- Central European University (CEU) is a globally recognized institution known for its focus on social justice, human rights, policy and has over 50 academic programs, attracting students and scholars from around the world.
- Mara Tissera Luna’s Website – Discover more about Mara's work, upcoming courses and podcast as well as and publications.
- Paulo Freire’s Pedagogy of the Oppressed – An essential resource for understanding decolonial thought and education.
To stay updated with more career resources, stories, and opportunities in the social impact space, sign up for the free PCDN Weekly Impact Newsletter, offering the world’s best curated jobs, funding, and learning opportunities.
Listen to the episode on PCDN.global or any major podcast platform. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and share if you find it valuable!
Bio:
Mara Tissera Luna is an independent consultant and social anthropologist specializing in child protection, forced migration, and gender-based violence. She has worked with 16 universities, NGOs, and international agencies across 14 countries, using decolonial frameworks to advocate for social justice. Currently based in California, Mara is a fellow at Georgetown University’s Collaborative on Global Children’s Issues. She holds a Masters Degree from Central European University, a certificate in Afro-Latin American Studies from Harvard University and a BA from the University of Buenos Aires.
Listen to the episode on PCDN.Global. or any major podcast platform. Don't forget to check out the 160+ other episodes of the Social Change Career Podcast for more insights from global changemakers!
Timestamp of the Episode
0:00 - Introduction to Decolonization and Social Change Careers
1:30 - Understanding the Current Focus of Work
5:04 - Key Insights on Building a Career in Social Change
12:16 - The Importance of Specialized Knowledge
14:27 - Applying a Decolonial Lens to Research
17:10 - The Role of Historical Context in Social Change
25:05 - Navigating the Challenges of Consulting Careers
32:22 - Strategies for Effective Networking
57:55 - Embracing Different Viewpoints in International Cooperation
1:09:15 - Resources and Recommendations for Continuous Learning
1:12:02 - Engaging with the Audience and Opportunities for Connection
1:14:06 - Concluding Thoughts and Future Directions