She made a powerful discovery that would change her life!

Ghita Zniber, venture capitalist and co-founder of Kalys Ventures realised that her true passion wasn't leading her own entrepreneurial journey but supporting others in theirs.

In this insightful episode 122 of Meaningful Work, Meaningful Life, Ghita shares her journey from a diverse educational background to becoming a key player in the African startup ecosystem.

She delves into her mission to support entrepreneurs, particularly in Africa, and the personal values that guide her in both life and work. 

Tune in to this episode to learn more about Ghita’s unique path to becoming a key player in the African startup ecosystem, how she’s helping startups to create meaningful impact and her advice for entrepreneurs to successfully pitch their businesses to investors.

More info about the podcast 
• Website: https://www.francinebeleyi.com/podcast/ 
• Watch on Youtube https://bit.ly/3LKwUT1 

Connect with Francine Beleyi, the host
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francinebeleyi/ 
• Website: https://www.francinebeleyi.com/ 

 Connect with Ghita Zniber, the guest
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ghita-zniber-351a5290/

• Website: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kalys-ventures/

 

 Related resources
🎁Free download: The Ultimate Guide to Building Trust, Profit & Making an Impact https://nucleusofchange.com/buildingtrust/

 

#AfricanStartups #VentureCapital #Entrepreneurship #femalefounders

She took a bold leap when she realised: “If on paper everything is right and I’m still unhappy, something’s wrong.”

Today, that leap has turned her vision into reality.

Aravinda Seshadri graduated from Stanford Law School and became a partner at a boutique law firm. On the surface, her career seemed perfect. But she knew something was missing.

She craved more than just success—she wanted to make a meaningful impact. Aravinda believes that legal support shouldn’t be a luxury for startups, especially those founded by underrepresented and marginalized entrepreneurs.

In episode 121 of Meaningful Work, Meaningful Life, Aravinda Seshadri, Founding Partner of Venturous Counsel, shares her inspiring journey from Stanford to creating a unique law firm dedicated to supporting diverse founders in the tech industry.

We dive deep into her passion for social justice, the importance of diversity in startups, and practical advice for navigating the legal landscape as an entrepreneur.

Tune in to get inspired by Aravinda's story!

 

More info about the podcast 
• Website: https://www.francinebeleyi.com/podcast/ 
• Watch on Youtube https://bit.ly/3LKwUT1 

Connect with Francine Beleyi, the host
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francinebeleyi/ 
• Website: https://www.francinebeleyi.com/ 

 Connect with Aravinda Seshadri, the guest
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aravindas/

• Website: https://www.venturouscounsel.com/

 

Related resources
🎁Free download: The Ultimate Guide to Building Trust, Profit & Making an Impact https://nucleusofchange.com/buildingtrust/

Keywords: Aravinda Seshadri, Venturous Counsel, underrepresented founders, legal support, diversity in tech, startup law, venture capital, networking tips, intellectual property protection, mission-driven work.

#DiverseFounders #StartupLaw #VentureCapital #LegalAdvice

This is what’s missing in how we approach solving the world’s biggest challenges: A shift from individualism to something bigger—collaboration.

 

In this #120 episode of "Meaningful Work, Meaningful Life," I had the honour of speaking with Karim Sy, a serial entrepreneur and founder of Jokkolabs. With roots in Mali, Lebanon, and Senegal, Karim has spent his career fostering entrepreneurship and technological innovation across Africa.

 

Join us as we explore Karim's fascinating journey, his mission to drive social change through open-source technology, and his vision for a collaborative future in Africa's entrepreneurial ecosystem.

More info about the podcast 
• Website: https://www.francinebeleyi.com/podcast/ 
• Watch on Youtube https://bit.ly/3LKwUT1 

Connect with Francine Beleyi, the host
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francinebeleyi/ 
• Website: https://www.francinebeleyi.com/ 

Connect with Karim Sy, the guest

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karimsy/
• Website: https://www.linkedin.com/company/jokkolabs/

What if the key to overcoming your greatest challenges isn’t your circumstances, but the stories you tell yourself? 🎙️

 

In episode 119 of Meaningful Work, Meaningful Life, I had the incredible opportunity to speak with Dr. Constance Scharff, a global leader in mental health research and the founder of The Human Resilience Project.

We dive into her groundbreaking research on resilience within indigenous communities, the transformative power of storytelling, and the link between climate change and mental health.

Tune in to learn about the profound impact of narratives on personal growth and healing.

More info about the podcast 

• Website: https://www.francinebeleyi.com/podcast/ 
• Watch on Youtube https://bit.ly/3LKwUT1 

Connect with Francine Beleyi, the host

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francinebeleyi/ 
• Website: https://www.francinebeleyi.com/ 

 Connect with Dr. Constance Scharff, the guest

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cscharff
• Website: https://www.constancescharff.com/

 

 Related resources
🎁Free download: The Ultimate Guide to Building Trust, Profit & Making an Impact https://nucleusofchange.com/buildingtrust/

How do you move from building a career to embracing your life’s true calling?

In episode 118 of Meaningful Work, Meaningful Life, I have an inspiring conversation with Olatokunbo Ige, a former international human rights lawyer turned social entrepreneur.

With over four decades of global experience, Olatokunbo reveals her powerful transition from the United Nations to founding initiatives like Livingstones Ecovillage and UTRADER.

Her journey is a testament to resilience, faith, and a deep commitment to community empowerment and sustainable development.

Join us as we uncover how Olatokunbo is pioneering meaningful, lasting change across Africa and beyond.

More info about the podcast 
• Website: https://www.francinebeleyi.com/podcast/ 
• Watch on Youtube https://bit.ly/3LKwUT1 

Connect with Francine Beleyi, the host
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francinebeleyi/ 
• Website: https://www.francinebeleyi.com/ 

 Connect with Olatokunbo Ige, the guest
• LinkedIn: https://tg.linkedin.com/in/olatokunbo-ige-b476b239  

• Website: https://thelivingstonesfamily.com/ecovillage/

 

 Related resources
🎁Free Download: The Ultimate Guide to Building Trust, Profit & Making an Impact https://nucleusofchange.com/buildingtrust/

In this episode 117 of “Meaningful Work, Meaningful Life,” we explore the incredible journey of Matt Parfitt, Founder and CEO of Grace Enterprises.

Matt shares his transition from primary school teacher to social entrepreneur, detailing how his faith-driven mission has led to the creation of several successful social enterprises.

These businesses provide meaningful employment to individuals facing significant barriers, such as homelessness and addiction, while promoting sustainable and ethical business practices.

 

More info about the podcast 
• Website: https://www.francinebeleyi.com/podcast/ 
• Watch on Youtube https://bit.ly/3LKwUT1 

 

Connect with Francine Beleyi, the host
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francinebeleyi/ 
• Website: https://www.francinebeleyi.com/ 

 

 Connect with Matt Parfitt,  the guest
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattparfitt/
• Website: http://www.graceenterprises.co.uk

 

 Related resources
🎁Free download: The Ultimate Guide to Building Trust, Profit & Making an Impact https://nucleusofchange.com/buildingtrust/

When people think of virtual assistants, they rarely think of African talent

In this episode 116 of Meaningful Work, Meaningful Life, we sit down with Erefa Coker, the founder of IMÒ Interns, a groundbreaking platform that connects businesses worldwide with skilled, remote interns from Africa.

With a background in HR and a passion for creating economic opportunities, Erefa shares her journey, the challenges she’s faced, and her mission to empower young African talent.

We dive into how she built trust with international clients, the impact of remote work, and her vision for the future of global employment.

 

More info about the podcast 
• Website: https://www.francinebeleyi.com/podcast/ 
• Watch on Youtube https://bit.ly/3LKwUT1 

Connect with Francine Beleyi, the host
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francinebeleyi/ 
• Website: https://www.francinebeleyi.com/ 

 Connect with Erefa Cocker, the guest
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erefa-fynecontry-coker/
• Website: https://www.imointerns.app/

 Related resources
🎁Free download: The Ultimate Guide to Building Trust, Profit & Making an Impact https://nucleusofchange.com/buildingtrust/

In this episode 115 of “Meaningful Work, Meaningful Life,” we kick off our season 10 “Leaders on a Mission” series with Christopher Marquis, Sinyi Professor at the University of Cambridge Judge School of Business and author of the book “The Profiteers: How Business Privatises Profits and Socialises Costs.”

Chris exposes the strategies companies use to shift environmental and societal costs while maximising profits for shareholders. He also highlights pioneering companies that are actively creating positive impacts, offering a roadmap for transformation.

Chris shares his personal journey, his inspiration from students, and insights into corporate sustainable responsibility.

If you're passionate about corporate sustainability, curious about how businesses can be a force for good or seeking inspiration to align your work with your values, this episode is a must-listen.

Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review of the podcast if you liked this episode.

 

More info about the podcast 
• Website: https://www.francinebeleyi.com/podcast/ 
• Watch on Youtube https://bit.ly/3LKwUT1 

 Connect with Francine Beleyi, the host
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francinebeleyi/ 
• Website: https://www.francinebeleyi.com/ 

 Connect with Chris Marquis, the guest
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-marquis/
• Website: https://chrismarquis.com/

 Related resources
• Book: The Profiteers: How Business Privatizes Profits and Socializes Costs by  Christopher Marquis

🎁Free Download: The Ultimate Guide to Building Trust, Profit & Making an Impact https://nucleusofchange.com/buildingtrust/

I’m excited to have you join me for Season 10 of the Meaningful Work, Meaningful Life podcast! "Leaders on a Mission"

We’ll be delving into the personal journeys, impactful work, and visionary leadership of extraordinary individuals who are making a real difference in the world.

Throughout this season, you’ll hear from leaders who are driving social change, empowering underserved communities, and challenging the way we think about business, innovation, and leadership. 

Each episode brings a unique perspective, with stories that will inspire you to take action and align your work with a deeper sense of purpose.

Without giving too much away, I can promise you this: each episode is packed with insights, wisdom, and actionable advice from leaders who are not just talking about change—they’re making it happen.

🔸 So, whether you’re an entrepreneur, a leader, or someone searching for your true path, there’s something in this season for everyone. 

🔸 Make sure you subscribe on your favourite podcast platform and here on Youtube, so you don't miss any episode, and get ready to be inspired! I can’t wait for you to hear these incredible stories. 

 

Links 
🎧Tune in every Tuesday for a new episode of the Meaningful Work, Meaningful Life podcast on Apple podcast, Spotify or any of your favourite podcast platforms  

🔗 The show notes of the episode and the Youtube video are at https://www.francinebeleyi.com/podcast  
✔️ Free download: The Ultimate Guide to Building Trust, Profit & Making an Impact https://nucleusofchange.com/buildingtrust/
✔️ Connect with Francine Beleyi on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/francinebeleyi/ 

#MWMLpodcast #MeaningfulWork #PurposedrivenLeaders #LeadersonaMission 

When considering employee advocacy or brand ambassador programs, organisations often assume:

⛔ It’s just employees sharing marketing on social media 

⛔ It’s not relevant for managers and executives  

⛔ It’s about continuously praising the company

⛔Tightly controlling the messaging of employee advocates is the key to success.

⛔ It’s only for sales and marketing staff 

However, my guests in season 9 of my podcast Meaningful Work, Meaningful Life shared insights dispelling these myths and revealing the true potential of employee advocacy:

✅ Success requires share-worthy content and a culture where people enjoy working. (episode #104 Bradley Keenan)

✅ Allow people to proudly share what they're passionate about in your organisation (episode #105 Jessica Pharm)

✅ Executives should lead by example in sharing first online (episode #106 Michael Sørensen) 

✅Invest in managers' abilities to form authentic relationships with their collaborators. (episode #109 Kristin Bell)

✅ Hire smart people who align with your values and support their wellbeing. People need to feel at home when working with you. (episode #108 Yao Azumah)

✅ Encourage self-belief and compassionate leadership. Stop, look and listen (episode #107 @Harpal Dhatt)

✅ Balance profits and human rights through human-centered technology. (episode #111 Fatima Roumate)

✅Coach managers to help employees navigate their careers and feel they belong. (episode #110 Antonia Bartels)

Done right, an employee advocacy program simply empowers people for a mutually beneficial partnership built on trust and care. 

The old command-and-control mindsets misunderstand this potential. 

But now you see the power of an authentic approach. 

🎁Are you ready to learn how to start or strengthen your own employee advocacy journey? 
Reach out https://www.francinebeleyi.com/call/  

 

More info about the podcast 
• Website: https://www.francinebeleyi.com/podcast/ 
• Watch on Youtube https://bit.ly/3LKwUT1 

 Connect with Francine Beleyi, the host.
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francinebeleyi/ 
• Website: https://www.francinebeleyi.com/ 

 Related resources.
• Take the free Personal Branding for Impact (PBI) test www.francinebeleyi.com/pbitest
• Download Whitepaper - Redesigning a Thriving Post-Pandemic Organization: How to Retain Your Talent & Turn Them into Your Biggest Advocates https://www.francinebeleyi.com/talentretention/

 

I appreciate all who joined me on this journey of exploring meaningful work and meaningful life.

See you in season 10!

 

 

Before closing out season 9 of Meaningful Work, Meaningful Life podcast, I revisit a key question I love asking my guests: If I gave you 1 billion pounds today, what would you do?

I ask this because it reveals our true motivations.

How often do we ask ourselves what we'd really want if money were no object?

 

This is how my guests this season answered. Their responses may surprise and motivate you!

Let’s Tune in

More info about the podcast

• Website: https://www.francinebeleyi.com/podcast/
• Watch on Youtube https://bit.ly/3LKwUT1

 Connect with Francine Beleyi, the host.

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francinebeleyi/
• Website: https://www.francinebeleyi.com/

 Related resources.

• Take the free Personal Branding for Impact (PBI) test francinebeleyi.com/pbitest
• Download Whitepaper - Redesigning a Thriving Post-Pandemic Organization: How to Retain Your Talent & Turn Them into Your Biggest Advocates https://www.francinebeleyi.com/talentretention/