What is a Changemaker?

Introduction

Hey, changemakers! Have you ever wondered what truly defines a changemaker in today's world? 

While the term dates back to the 1980s when Ashoka introduced the idea of a changemaker—someone capable of creating large-scale, positive change—it has since evolved to meet the new challenges of our interconnected, diverse, and often inequitable world. 

Ashoka’s vision is about building a global community where "Everyone is a Changemaker," but what does that mean for us as mission-driven leaders today?

Today, more than ever, the world needs your courage, your vision, and your unwavering commitment to equity and justice. You’re already on the frontlines—pushing for change, challenging norms, and lifting up those whose voices often go unheard. 

Being a changemaker means something deeply personal for you: it’s about daring to envision a more inclusive, just world, and then rolling up your sleeves to make that vision a reality. 

It’s about leading with both heart and strategy, embodying transformation within yourself so you can inspire and ignite it in others.

As you read through this guide, know that this journey is not one you’re taking alone. You’re part of a growing community of leaders who are transforming workplaces and society from the inside out. Let’s explore what being a changemaker truly means, and how you can amplify the incredible work you’re already doing.

Defining the Modern Changemaker

Ashoka's original definition of a changemaker remains a powerful concept—empowering people to co-create solutions that improve their societies. 

But being a changemaker today requires more than vision. It means leading with empathy, challenging the status quo, and driving systemic changes within and beyond your organization. 

For leaders focused on DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) and fostering equitable growth, the role is more complex and intertwined with both personal and collective transformation.

As leadership researcher Dr. Lisa H. Nishii points out, true change in organizational cultures happens when leaders understand the nuances of inclusion and model the behaviors they want to see. 

This means being willing to look inward, acknowledge biases, and embody the values of equity and inclusion before attempting to shift the broader culture. 

Leaders who commit to this dual approach—aligning personal growth with the needs of their organizations—are the changemakers of today.

Changemakers must also adapt to an ever-changing world where the demands for equity and inclusivity grow stronger. As organizations grapple with challenges like unconscious bias, microaggressions, and systemic inequality, the role of a changemaker becomes increasingly about bridging gaps between intention and action. 

It’s about fostering environments where employees feel safe, valued, and empowered to contribute to their fullest potential.

Top 10 Traits of a Modern Changemaker

Before diving into the traits, I want to share a bit about where they come from. These qualities aren’t just pulled from theory or textbook examples—they are drawn from my own journey and the experiences I've had working with leaders committed to creating real change. 

They represent the insights I've gained while navigating the complex terrain of leadership, DEI, and organizational culture, as well as the lessons learned from those who’ve been courageous enough to challenge norms and break new ground.

I’ve seen firsthand how these characteristics can transform not only individuals but entire teams and organizations. They are the qualities that have helped me and others stay resilient through setbacks, connect deeply with diverse communities, and lead with authenticity. 

And now, I share them with you—not as a prescription, but as a guide, something to reflect on and adapt to your unique path as a changemaker.

1. Radical Self-Awareness:

A changemaker must start with an understanding of their own strengths, biases, and areas for growth. This self-awareness helps leaders navigate their internal barriers before attempting to drive external change.

2. Empathy-Driven Leadership:

Empathy is central to changemaking. It enables leaders to understand and validate the experiences of others, fostering a culture of inclusion where diverse voices are genuinely heard.

3. Modeling Inclusive Behaviors:

Leaders must demonstrate the inclusive behaviors they wish to cultivate in their teams. This includes active listening, fairness, and embracing diverse perspectives, which are crucial for building trust within an organization.

4. Adaptability and Resilience:

Changemakers are prepared to adapt and remain resilient amid setbacks. Real transformation often involves revising strategies and learning from failures, particularly when addressing deep-rooted inequities.

5. Commitment to Lifelong Learning:

They are committed to continuous learning, staying informed about the latest in DEI practices, and seeking opportunities for personal and professional growth.

6. Vision Alignment with Action:

Changemakers align their values with concrete actions, ensuring that their personal growth translates into real-world impact. This alignment is essential for inspiring trust and credibility among their teams.

7. Courage to Challenge the Status Quo:

They are willing to challenge outdated norms and advocate for new approaches to create a more equitable workplace. This often means taking risks and championing initiatives that others may resist.

8. Facilitators of Inclusive Decision-Making:

Changemakers ensure that decision-making processes include diverse perspectives. This not only leads to better solutions but also fosters a culture of belonging.

9. Ability to Foster Engagement and Motivation:

They create environments that keep teams engaged and motivated by focusing on meaning, autonomy, and opportunities for growth. This is key to maintaining momentum for long-term change efforts.

10. Focus on Systemic Impact:

Changemakers understand that addressing internal transformation is only part of the journey. They work towards systemic change by tackling structural barriers, making their impact felt throughout the organization and beyond.

The Big Picture: Why Changemakers Matter

In today’s world, where the gap between social inequalities and organizational realities continues to grow, the need for changemakers has never been more urgent. 

These leaders play a critical role in shaping workplace cultures that align with values of equity and inclusion, creating environments where every team member has the opportunity to thrive. 

By addressing both their own growth and the broader needs of their organizations, changemakers help bridge this gap and make meaningful progress toward a more inclusive world.

As organizations become more aware of the importance of cultural transformation, changemakers have the chance to lead the way. 

They not only push for policies that support diversity but also foster the kind of deep, interpersonal connections that build inclusive climates. 

Your leadership is the catalyst that sparks this transformation, and your courage lights the path forward.

Conclusion: Embrace Your Role as a Changemaker

Being a changemaker is not about being perfect—it's about being relentlessly committed to making a difference, even when the path gets tough. 

It’s about standing up when it would be easier to stay silent, about believing in the power of every individual to contribute to a world where fairness and opportunity are not just ideals, but lived realities.

Your work as a changemaker matters. 

It matters to the people you uplift, to the communities you support, and to the future you are helping to build. 

You have the power to create a ripple effect of positive change—one conversation, one decision, one act of courage at a time.

So, to all of you reading this: keep pushing, keep challenging, and keep believing in the power of your vision. 

You are not just leading organizations—you’re leading a movement. 

And every time you step into your role as a changemaker, you’re helping to build a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Take a look at this powerful guide to create a culture of growth where everyone thrives!

Are you ready to take the next step in your journey? 

Let’s build this future together. 

Your courage, your leadership, and your unwavering spirit are exactly what the world needs right now. 

Let’s make change, one bold step at a time.

Get Up and Grow! – Raúl T. Pereyra (RTP) raul@rtplearning.com