vested. Co-designing investment for impact: A personal perspective from panellist, Great.
Yesterday, we shared the some of the main investment criteria we’ve co-designed in vested — which is bringing together young adults with experience of unemployment to shape £300,000 of investment aimed at organisations in London.
We’re now looking for organisations that employ young people directly in good work — work which pays people fairly, offers a career rather than just a job, and which prioritises young people’s mental health.
Today, we want to share a short, personal perspective on the process leading up to that, from Vested panellist, Great Okosun. In the below, Great reflects on their experience of making decisions in the panel. They hint at some broader themes we’re seeing about what shapes confident decision-making in a group with no prior experience in the investment world, which we’ll bring out in more detail in the new year.
A personal perspective on Vested from Great.
My name is Great Okosun, 23-year-old creative — pronouns are They/Them or Hire/Me if you’re a talent manager for an ad agency.
Reflecting on my decision-making during our third session at Vested, where we discussed the types of organisation we were seeking, I can’t help but acknowledge the profound impact such organisations can have.
We delved into how different kinds of organisations could lower key factors behind youth unemployment and combat discrimination. It was eye-opening to see how our choices could directly affect these issues.
As a panellist, my experience has been a mix of nerves and empowerment. Initially anxious about investing a substantial sum alongside strangers, meeting Michael and Chloe early on reassured me. They set the tone for an inclusive, professional, and welcoming environment. The agency and power given to each panellist were remarkable, fostering a sense of responsibility and trust among us.
The diversity within our panel was a significant strength. The blend of experiences ensured that every viewpoint found a balanced counterpoint, enriching our discussions. The materials we engaged with, and guidance from the Trust for London team, gave us invaluable insights into social impact businesses, equipping us to make informed decisions.
Our sessions were inclusive and equitable spaces where everyone’s voice was valued. From learning about each other in the initial session to meeting business founders in the second, every interaction felt meaningful and contributory.
The culmination of these experiences led to a decisive session where we navigated through varying opinions, akin to a passionate debate among ancient senators. Ultimately, the collective decision was made, and while I could detail the specifics, the essence lies on the website for all to explore.
As we conclude round one, I eagerly anticipate the next phase. The learning, the camaraderie, and the responsibility we feel toward aiding unemployed youth have only intensified my enthusiasm for round two. Here’s to the future endeavours and the impact we strive to make.
Stay tuned for more in January 2024, when we’ll share what we’ve been learning about shaping confident decisions in participatory investment, and the benefits we’re seeing for social investors of processes like this.
