Embarking on a Journey of Impact: Reflecting the first week of my Social Sabbatical with SAP in São Paulo
As I sit down to reflect on the whirlwind of the past week, I am overwhelmed with a sense of gratitude and excitement. I find myself amidst an extraordinary opportunity — a social sabbatical with SAP, working alongside 11 other consultants from various corners of the globe. Our mission? To lend our expertise to a noble cause, supporting a non-governmental organization (NGO) in the vibrant city of São Paulo, Brazil.
Joined by my talented colleagues Heather from the UK and Saminder from Canada, our trio is committed to making a difference in this bustling metropolis. Our focus? Collaborating with Impact Hub São Paulo, an integral part of a global network spanning over 65 countries, dedicated to driving inclusive and sustainable innovation. This dynamic organization, founded by Pablo Handl and Henrique Bussacos, has been pioneering impactful initiatives since its inception in 2007.
Our first week in São Paulo has been nothing short of transformative. Together with Laura, Carlos and Pablo from ImpactHub and Lu our project assistan, we delved into the intricacies of our statement of work, laying the groundwork for the weeks ahead. From the initial kickoff at Civi-Co to visits at Aya Earth Partners Hub and the InovaUSP at the University of São Paulo, each encounter has left an indelible mark on my heart.
However, it was the Kickoff Event of Salto that truly resonated with me, supporting black women entrepreneurs — a poignant reminder of the resilience and tenacity of the human spirit. In the face of adversity, these women have carved out paths of success, inspiring us all to strive for greater heights.
As we gear up for the next three weeks, my anticipation knows no bounds. Tonight, we immerse ourselves in the rhythmic beats of Samba, embracing the rich tapestry of Brazilian culture. Yet, beyond the pulsating rhythms and vibrant colors lies a deeper connection — the opportunity to learn and grow from the people of Impact Hub, the entrepreneurs we serve, and my esteemed SAP colleagues.
Impact Hub São Paulo’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurial communities for impact at scale is truly commendable. With over 25,000 Impact Makers driving positive change worldwide, their reach knows no bounds. From incubation and acceleration programs to strategic collaborations and ecosystem building, Impact Hub stands as a beacon of hope in an ever-changing world.
Our journey ahead is not without its challenges. Impact Hub seeks to leverage its vast community database, transitioning into a virtual space that fosters greater connectivity and collaboration. Together with SAP, our task is clear: to analyze possible business models, identify monetization strategies, and pave the way for scalable solutions.
But amidst the complexities lies an opportunity — to harness the power of technology and innovation in service of a greater good. As we navigate the weeks ahead, I am reminded of the profound impact we can achieve when we come together with a shared purpose.
In closing, I am filled with an overwhelming sense of gratitude — for the opportunity to serve, to learn, and to grow. Together, we embark on a journey of impact — one that transcends borders and empowers communities to thrive.
Here’s to the next three weeks of collaboration, growth, and discovery. Here’s to making a difference, one step at a time.
Obrigado, São Paulo. Let the journey continue.
