Talent Stable’s Post

Rising Dough: Pascaline Sigoro's Journey to Sustainable Success Cheryz Sugar World is a Kenyan-based sol-proprietorship business that deals with the baking of cakes. Pascaline Sigoro the owner of the business, bakes her cakes from her home in Rongai and distributes them to her customers. "My main customers are mostly from referrals from people who have tasted my cake," Pascaline shared with a hint of pride, acknowledging the power of word-of-mouth in growing her business. Despite her business success, Pascaline faced a challenge that many entrepreneurs grapple with, staying informed and relevant in the ever-changing world. She recognized the need to align her business with the global goals, specifically the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to not only elevate her bakery but also contribute positively to the world. She joined the Spearheading Women SME program, a collaborative effort by Invest in Africa (IIA) and the World University Service of Canada (WUSC) that aimed to empower women entrepreneurs with knowledge and tools to embrace Environmental Social Governance (ESG) sustainability practices in their businesses. Read More: https://bit.ly/3SPnmZu Pascaline Mwanthi World University Service of Canada (WUSC - EUMC) Taka Taka Ni Mali Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA) Kenya Association of Manufacturers #ESG #womenempowerment #skillsdevelopment

On my way back home to the beautiful Wirral Peninsula from the London office, I’m diving into "How to Create a Sustainable Food Industry: A Practical Guide to Perfect Food" from Melissa Barrett, Massimo Marino, Francesca Brkic, and Carlo Alberto Pratesi. I'm midway through yet but I already see this book as an easy-to-understand guide for anyone in the food sector trying to figure out how to bring sustainable practices into their business. I think it is suitable for professionals across agriculture, processing, and beverages who know that making a shift towards sustainability is crucial but might not know where to start or how to step it up. Also, for companies just starting on the sustainability journey, it lays out a strong foundation. And for those already on the path, it brings new ideas and insights to sharpen their approach. i dont know if you agree, but one of the big questions right now is how we make choices that meet consumers’ call for ethical, traceable products while also cutting down on environmental impact. I believe this book tackles that, and it may be a valuable resource for people to create a culture that values sustainability all the way from farm to table. If you’re serious about making a difference in food sustainability, it’s definitely worth a read. Let me know if you want a copy, I might be able to get a few extra copies for friends! 😉

🌟 Just visited Ben & Jerry's, and I'm inspired by their impact approach! I have read and studied Ben and Jerry's business case and impact approach, but I visited the company for the first time. Here are some points to share about my visit 👇🏼 🟢 This company isn't just about delicious ice cream; it's a powerhouse of innovation and social impact. 🟢 Ben & Jerry's has revolutionized the food industry with its unique business model, combining high-quality products with a solid commitment to social justice. 🟢 Its annual revenue exceeds $1 billion, showing that doing good can be profitable, too (Yes, earning good money is no problem; please take note if you call yourself a social company). 🟢 Pioneered the use of Fairtrade ingredients, ensuring farmers receive fair compensation. 🟢 Their "Caring Dairy" program promotes sustainable farming practices, benefiting over 250 farms. 🟢 Additionally, their activism campaigns raise awareness on crucial issues like climate change. And much more... Ben & Jerry's exemplifies how businesses can innovate, impact, and have good profit and purpose. 🍦✨ #Innovation #SocialImpact #BusinessStrategy #BenAndJerrys #Sustainability #Fairtrade #Leadership #Inspiration #CorporateResponsibility

Do you understand your supply chain? (Or is it just something in a distant?) Dimeji Olufodun, is a 4th generation cocoa farmer from Nigeria. Now he lives in Edinburgh. And I am proud to call him my friend. 😊 Dimeji, was Nigeria’s first official Sustainability Manager for cocoa. He’s trained 3000 farmers in regenerative agriculture under the Rainforest Alliance. He now helps businesses with their supply chains. Just like he did for Unilever’s fork to plate program. But why should you care? Because sustainability affect us all—starting with the chocolate we love. Dimeji's story is inspiring. Watch the full interview on YouTube. Link in comments. ♻️ SHARE to spread the word. P.S: Did you notice the price of chocolate rising? P.P.S Connect with Dimeji for all things supply chain and regenerative agriculture related.

🌳 Celebrating Think Partnership Ltd as a Partner in Emiel’s Food Forest! 🌳 In today’s world, organizations are increasingly challenged to future-proof their businesses by staying competitive, attracting talent, and demonstrating real progress in environmental and social responsibility. Think Partnership, co-founded by Gavin Tweedie and Ray Black, makes this journey achievable. They empower companies to bring their sustainable growth intentions to life. Gavin, who co-founded Net Zero Nation in 2021 alongside our founding director, Tabitha Jayne, and our Food Forest Champion, James Napier, has been instrumental in providing SMEs and supply chain owners with the resources needed to begin their Net Zero journey, accelerating sustainable change across industries. Over the last three years, Gavin, Ray, and their affiliate partners have worked with over 150 SMEs, guiding them to create credible and clearly defined pathways to Net Zero. Through this work, they’ve helped these companies realize the business advantages and opportunities that come from embedding sustainability at the heart of their operations. Gavin shares, “I’ve been passionate food forest in Scotland since Tabitha first shared the vision for this project, so I’m thrilled that Think Partnership is now part of it. "Sustainable business growth means taking a long-term focus and creating collaborative partnerships to drive innovation that’s both socially and environmentally responsible. "That’s exactly what we’re doing with Emiel’s Food Forest!” Are you interested in joining us on this journey? Reach out to explore how you can be part of Emiel’s Food Forest! #foodforest #naturebasedsolutions #netzero Image: A number of trees in the ground at the food forest with the tree planter's jackets hung up along the fence

This scientist-turned-entrepreneur is revolutionizing food systems—with a taste for the unconventional. How does she do it? Meet Marieke Vanthoor-Koopmans 🌳🍒🍲🧩, founder of Boslekker. With a PhD in Marine Biotechnology, two more scientific degrees, and years of experience building sustainable food systems in Mexico (where two of her kids were born—making them Mexican), Marieke’s journey is as diverse as the food forests she champions. Her passion for sustainability runs deep—she hates food waste so much, she’s been known to eat spoiled food rather than throw it away. Marieke’s latest venture, Boslekker, is all about turning food forest harvests into long-lasting, delicious products. Food forests are one of the most sustainable ways to produce food, enriching soils and promoting biodiversity while providing fruits, nuts, herbs, and vegetables. Her entrepreneurial spark first showed up as a kid, when she earned 300 guilders in a single day by selling second-hand goods at a King’s Day market. Today, she’s taking that same drive to turn sustainable harvests into shelf-stable products that are as good for the planet as they are for the taste buds. Women are key to the future of our planet. That’s why I’ll be sharing more stories of women like Marieke every Thursday for #womeninimpact

Can we make money while bettering food production and supply? Join the conversation: "Sustainable Harvests, Sustainable Returns: A Panel of Investors Betting on the Future of Food." May 9th, from 1:45 to 2:30 pm - I'll be sharing the stage with distinguished panelists including Andrew D Ive from Big Idea Ventures, Fengru L. of Turtletree, Rob Leclerc, PhD from AgFunder, David Welch of Synthesis Capital, J. Andrew Jones from Miami University, and Dan Pomerantz of RebelGrown. Our panel will dive into the pivotal role of sustainable investments in shaping the future of food production and supply. We'll explore how embracing sustainability drives the ethical and environmental agendas and offers substantial economic returns. Gain insights into the latest trends, challenges, and strategies in funding sustainable food ventures, emphasizing how investors can contribute to a resilient and sustainable food system while achieving financial success. Whether you're an investor interested in the agri-food sector, a startup looking for guidance, or simply passionate about the intersection of sustainability and economic growth, this session will provide valuable perspectives on making impactful investments that matter. Join us for a compelling exploration of how strategic investments are transforming the food industry for a better future.#SynBioBeta2024

Building a sustainable future is possible today. 🌍 During my participation on Forbes France's programme Les Entreprises à succès, presented by Alexia Borg, I shared my vision that economic performance must go hand in hand with positive impact. At Bonduelle, we are convinced that it is possible to transform the food industry while preserving the planet. It's not just a question of short-term results, but of building, with our agricultural partners, a sustainable and regenerative economic model. We have taken a significant first step with 80% of our activities certified #BCorp, and our aim is to go to 100% by 2025. It's a strong commitment, but also an exciting challenge that guides our actions every day. Our long-term vision combines efficiency, performance and respect for the environment. Together, we are creating a committed community, ready to take on tomorrow's challenges and shape a more responsible future. To find out more about our projects and our approach, I invite you to discover the video exchange. 🎥➡️ #BonduelleBcorp2024 #BCORP #ImpactPositif

🌍 ESG in Action: Danone’s Social Impact through Community Engagement 🌍 At Danone, social responsibility is more than just a buzzword – it’s a driving force behind their global operations. From supporting smallholder farmers to promoting sustainable agriculture, Danone’s initiatives are reshaping communities for the better. Their partnerships with local communities ensure fair trade practices while helping farmers improve their yields and livelihoods. By prioritizing health, nutrition, and sustainability, Danone is setting the standard for how businesses can drive positive change. Curious about how they’re doing it? Let’s dive into their incredible impact! #ESG #Sustainability #FairTrade #CorporateSocialResponsibility #CommunityEngagement

Our time at Fruit Attraction has presented us with a great team building opportunity. Its also has highlighted and reinforced a few things for me: - While there are companies doing truly extraordinary things as far as reorienting primary food production on to a more sustainable path, one gets the sense that we are really only scratching the surface. - There remain too many organisations seemingly oblivious, flippant or openly cynical about any need for self-reflection and change. - The sustainability/regenerative/resilience agenda remains a tough sell - short term economics trumps the longer-term and reflective thinking required to open the potential to take this on in a meaningful way. However, there are flames of hope being lit. Hopefully we can fan these. Here are are a few that have been reinforced for me over the past few days: Flame #1. There is a growing acceptance of the limits of a compliance led approach to driving this agenda. Solutions that are "beyond compliance" are required. Flame #2: There is a deepening realisation that it's what happens at farm-level that is key - and I'm talking specifically about the farmers - the decision-makers. How THEY think, plan and act will determine if we ultimately move the needle on the resilience of our food systems. Flame #3 Related to this is the realisation that, if farmers aren't somehow brought positively and willingly on this journey, no amount of grandstand strategies and target setting etc. from retailers, NGO's and the like will make a jot of difference (the same goes for ag-tech by the way) Flame #4: In light of the above , it is bottom-up approaches that are gaining more traction and more appreciation in some key commodity chains. I have insight into the adoption of SHERPA, Confronting Climate Change and #carbonheroes , but we're not alone in this space. Solutions that are designed first and foremost as management/strategic resources FOR FARMERS to support/assist them to successfully navigate this agenda are a necessary condition to achieving the required change at scale. We return from Madrid under no illusions of the scale of the challenge (or, more positively, the scale of the opportunity), and deeply encouraged and affirmed about the path we are on as a business. Hand on the tiller...no flinching...no turning back!