Embarking on a Journey of Impact: My Social Sabbatical Experience with SAP in São Paulo

Simon Poll
SAP Social Sabbatical
2 min readApr 10, 2024
“My” city for the weeks to come (picture by https://instagram.com/hikaique)

As I prepare to embark on a transformative journey with SAP’s Social Sabbatical program, I find myself filled with a mixture of excitement, anticipation, and a hint of nervousness. The prospect of traveling from Germany to São Paulo to support the impactful work of Impact Hub São Paulo is both exhilarating and humbling. This opportunity to contribute my skills and expertise as a pro-bono consultant alongside my colleagues Heather and Saminder is a unique privilege, and I am eager to dive into the experience headfirst.

One of the most intriguing aspects of this endeavor is the chance to work with an organization dedicated to driving social and racial justice, economic development, and environmental sustainability. Impact Hub São Paulo’s commitment to building a regenerative economy where business and profit serve people and the planet resonates deeply with me. Their vision of fostering meaningful connections, driving innovative solutions, and creating a radically better world aligns perfectly with SAP’s ethos of using technology for social good.

As I prepare for my journey, I am filled with curiosity about the work we will be undertaking and the impact we can make during our four weeks together. The prospect of collaborating with like-minded individuals from diverse backgrounds, both within SAP and at Impact Hub São Paulo, fills me with a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose. Despite not having met my colleagues in person before, I am confident that our collective passion and expertise will enable us to collaborate effectively and drive meaningful change.

Moreover, the opportunity to immerse myself in the vibrant culture of São Paulo is an added bonus. From exploring the bustling streets to savoring the rich culinary delights, I am excited to experience everything this dynamic city has to offer. I look forward to forging new connections, learning from the local community, and gaining a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing São Paulo and beyond.

As I countdown the days until my departure on April 11th, I am filled with a sense of purpose and determination. I am ready to embrace the unknown, challenge myself to think creatively, and contribute to positive social impact in whatever way I can. With each passing day, my excitement grows, and I eagerly anticipate the adventures that lie ahead in São Paulo.

Join me on this journey of impact as I document my experiences, insights, and reflections throughout my social sabbatical with SAP. Together, let’s explore the power of collaboration, innovation, and empathy in driving positive change for people and the planet.

Stay tuned for more updates from São Paulo!

Warm regards, Simon

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