Meet Amanda Kiessel: A Catalyst for Change in Social Entrepreneurship
In the ever-evolving landscape of social entrepreneurship, Amanda Kiessel stands out as a beacon of innovation and dedication. Her journey, marked by a profound commitment to fostering global change, has not only shaped her career but also the lives of countless individuals and organizations worldwide. Amanda Kiesel's journey in the realm of social enterprise offers a wealth of insights and inspiration for those passionate about creating sustainable change. Here are the key takeaways from her story:
A Journey Rooted in Purpose
Amanda's story begins in the serene farmlands of northern Michigan, where her upbringing instilled in her a deep appreciation for community and sustainability. This foundation paved the way for her academic pursuits on the East and West Coasts, culminating in a PhD. Her professional journey took a significant turn in Asia, where she spent two transformative years in Thailand before making a long-term commitment to Sri Lanka.
Initially planning to stay for just eight months, Amanda's work in Sri Lanka extended to 18 years, during which she navigated the complexities of post-conflict recovery and natural disasters. These experiences provided her with invaluable insights into the international aid sector and ignited her passion for sustainable, long-term change.
The Birth of Good Market
Amanda's vision for a more connected and sustainable world led to the creation of Good Market, a platform designed to unite global changemakers. What began as a local initiative in Sri Lanka quickly gained momentum, evolving into a global network of over 3,200 organizations. Good Market's success underscores the growing demand for a platform that prioritizes people and the planet over profit.
Amanda's definition of social enterprises extends beyond traditional business models to include nonprofits and volunteer groups. This inclusive approach has led to the establishment of shared principles that emphasize purpose, revenue models, and structural protections for their missions, broadening the scope and impact of social entrepreneurship. Whether through her work with Good Market or her involvement in various networks, she highlights the importance of collaboration and shared goals in achieving sustainable change.
Challenging the Status Quo
Amanda is not one to shy away from critiquing existing systems. She highlights the limitations of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), arguing that they fail to address the root causes of systemic issues. Her critique extends to the prevailing economic model, which prioritizes profit maximization for shareholders, perpetuating inequalities. Despite these challenges, Amanda remains optimistic about the growing recognition of the need for a new narrative—one that emphasizes collaboration and systemic change.
The Power of Community and Self-Care
Amanda underscores the importance of community and support systems for social entrepreneurs. She advocates for finding passion in one's work, building connections, and ensuring that funding aligns with the organization's mission. Self-care, she emphasizes, is crucial to prevent burnout and maintain the energy needed to drive change.
Her personal strategies for recharging include spending time in nature, engaging in physical activity, and connecting with others in the social enterprise space. Amanda's love for people and the planet fuels her work, coupled with a sense of urgency to address global challenges. This urgency, she believes, can be transformed into excitement for the potential to redesign systems and create a better future.
Envisioning a New Future for Business
Amanda envisions social enterprise as the future of business, advocating for a shift in narrative away from profit maximization towards a model that values people and the planet. She imagines a world where businesses are held accountable for their impact and where procurement practices favor socially responsible organizations. This transformation in storytelling and norms is deemed essential for establishing a sustainable economy that prioritizes collective well-being.
Conclusion
Through her insights and experiences, Amanda Kiessel offers valuable guidance for both current and aspiring change-makers. Her work serves as a testament to the power of community, passion, and systemic change within the social enterprise sector, inspiring a new generation to reimagine the future of business.
You can watch or simply listen to the full episode with Amanda here: https://www.trishabaileyphd.com/ep-53
Apple Podcast, Spotify, Youtube, Your Fav Player, Overcast
Connect with Amanda
