Zoë Papaikonomou is a journalist, researcher, teacher and writer about diversity, equity and inclusion. You have published two great books, one about inclusive journalism and one about inclusive workplaces. In this episode, Zoë shares her vision about inclusive leadership, collective vs individualistic leadership and the art to listen, be open and be vulnerable. Leadership is about creating space for other perspectives, not so much about posing your perspectives on others.

Ayan Biswas is a seasoned manager and leader. He is the Regional Hub manager in East Africa for Akvo, an international NGO providing data services and technical solutions for development. Ayan shares an inspiring story about his leadership journey. From India to East Africa, from a steady comfortable position, to a complete new adventure. It is a very personal story of a transition with ups and downs. Ayan explains that leadership can be summarized in 3 key indicators: Creating Clarity, Inspiring Others and finally Unconstraining Others.

Onno Hamburger is a thought leader on Happiness at Work and Leadership development. In this episode, Onno elaborates on the definition and meaning of happiness at work. Why it is important for you and for organizations to explicitly reflect frequently and create a work context that enables you to flourish. We also dream a bit and look into the future. What would be the impact on sustainable development if many change-makers and leaders invest actively in happiness at work?

Karin is the Senior Policy Advisor of the Taskforce Women’s Rights and Gender Equality at the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs.   She worked in various places in the world, mainly in Eastern Africa. But also in Vietnam for example. She has been involved in the work for the Dutch government, the United Nations, various NGOs and you had your own enterprise. Always striving for gender equality, sexual reproductive health and rights. This interview is all about trusting your inner voice, taking opportunities, curiosity, and the importance of working with great managers and teams in an international work environment.  Hope this inspires you to follow your inner voice and be your authentic self.

The introduction of the Change Makers Podcast. In this intro, Maaike shares her river of life. She explains why leadership and happiness at work are so important to drive change and create sustainable impact.