Wellbeing Enterprises CIC envisions communities taking charge of their health, with healthcare practitioners referring patients to local, non-clinical solutions to address the root causes of illness.  

Since 2006, Wellbeing EnterprisesCIC has led a transformative movement to address the widening health disparities in European countries like the UK.   

As pioneers in innovative approaches, Wellbeing Entreprises CIC advocates for systemic change, believing that medicine alone cannot remedy these disparities. Their groundbreaking social model of health has been implemented across diverse clinical pathways, from primary to end-of-life care, effectively addressing the social factors contributing to poor health outcomes. At the forefront of their efforts is the training of healthcare professionals in social health approaches, equipping them with the tools and resources to enhance practice and drive positive change. They engage in extensive co-design work with stakeholders to adapt and remodel services for various contexts, ensuring inclusivity and relevance. 

Furthermore, Wellbeing Entreprises CIC actively advocates for greater investment in social models of health, such as social prescribing, and advocate for every patient to receive a holistic social wellbeing assessment as part of their care treatment. Their commitment extends to promoting access to activities that promote the 5 Ways to Wellbeing for older citizens. 

“We envision a future where everyone, regardless of socioeconomic status, has the opportunity to lead a healthy and fulfilling life.” 

Learn more about Mark and Wellbeing Entreprises here 

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Travesia 100 is on a transformative mission to reshape society's perception of aging, led by Ximena. Fueled by demographic shifts and a commitment to inclusivity, they champion labour inclusion for mature workers aged 55 and older, recognizing its profound benefits. 

Despite persistent age-related stereotypes in the workplace, Travesia 100 confronts discrimination head-on, amplifying the voices of older individuals through advocacy and the Greater Voices network. They challenge ageism in media and advertising, fostering a culture of respect and inclusivity. 

Through initiatives like columns, public programs, and social innovation movements, Travesia 100 empowers older adults to embrace their stage of life as agents of change, providing training and tools for digitalization and beyond. 

Their vision extends to fostering collaboration across generations, promoting lifelong learning, healthy lifestyles, and policies that drive meaningful change. Ximena and Travesia 100 are dedicated to creating a world where age is no barrier to realizing one's potential and contributing to humanity. 

Learn more about Ximena and Travesia100 here 

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Waves for Change is at the forefront of a movement to revolutionize mental health support, led by Tim. Motivated by the alarming projections of the global mental health crisis, Tim drives the organization's mission to make mental health interventions more accessible and enjoyable for vulnerable populations. 

Recognizing the pressing need for culturally sensitive interventions, especially in low-middle income countries, Waves for Change has developed a powerful model that combines sport with self regulation activities. By incorporating five active ingredients into their programs, they strive to improve mental health outcomes for children and adolescents. 

Tim's vision extends to integrating sport and physical activity into healthcare and education systems, with a focus on structured after-school programs in deprived areas. He advocates for subsidizing participation in sports and recreation programs as part of mental health promotion efforts, recognizing their significant impact on overall well-being. 

Waves for Change aims to shift societal attitudes towards sports, emphasizing connection over competition. Through their innovative approach, Tim and Waves for Change are driving progress towards a world where mental health support is accessible to all, regardless of socioeconomic status. 

Learn more about Tim and Waves for Change here 

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Ricarda is driven by a mission to redefine work-life balance, particularly for parents, and eradicate the conflict between career advancement and family commitments. With a focus on the corporate sector, she collaborates with employers to transform the perception of maternity leave and parental care from burdens to opportunities for skill enhancement. Her groundbreaking concept, "MaaM" - Maternity as a Masters - encapsulates this transformative approach. 

Recognizing the undervaluation of caregiving roles in today's workplace, Riccarda founded Lifeed to elevate the significance of caregiving skills and mindset. At Lifeed, Riccarda and her team identify, quantify, and activate the additional skills cultivated through caregiving experiences, empowering individuals to leverage these skills across various contexts. By fostering self-efficacy and advocating for holistic care, Lifeed enables individuals to thrive both personally and professionally. 

Riccarda's vision extends beyond the workplace, encompassing a cultural shift that celebrates human identity and recognizes the potential for growth in every life stage. She seeks to redefine the narrative around caregiving, positioning it as a valuable superpower that enriches individuals and society. 

Through Lifeed, Riccarda is driving a paradigm shift towards a more inclusive and supportive work environment, where caregivers are empowered to achieve success and fulfilment in all aspects of their lives. 

Learn more about Riccarda and Lifeed here 

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Through El-Aged Care Initiative Philomena is pioneering transformative approach to elderly care in Nigeria. El-Aged Care Initiative addresses the challenges posed by a rapidly growing aging population, including poverty, limited healthcare access, social isolation, and ageism. Focused on rural areas strained by urban migration, the initiative equips older adults to take charge of their well-being, fostering mentorship and community bonds.

By leveraging existing family and community networks, they promote holistic health through education, self-care practices, and recreational activities. They also work tirelessly to raise awareness about the realities of aging and advocate against ageist stereotypes, such as the harmful association of dementia with witchcraft. 

Philomena envisions sustainable long-term care systems that combat ageist stereotypes and create age-friendly environments, allowing Nigeria’s elderly population to age with dignity in their communities. Through these efforts, the El-Aged Care Initiative seeks to enable fulfilling lives for older adults fostering aspirations and lifelong contribution. 

Learn more about Philomena and El-Aged Care Initiative here 

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Dixon's Friendship Bench initiative aims to revolutionize mental health care delivery, leveraging community health workers and holistic approaches. With extensive research backing, it seamlessly integrates into primary care settings, addressing social determinants and fostering community empowerment. With over 1,400 workers trained and 150,000 patients served, its impact is substantial. Dixon's global vision includes pilots in six countries and collaborations with WHO, while his academic roles advance research through initiatives like AMARI, ensuring evidence-based innovation in mental health care.

Learn more about Dixon and the Friendship Bench here

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Heidi stands at the forefront of pioneering dementia care, championing early diagnosis, prevention, and a focus on individuals' remaining abilities. Through her organization, NOEN, Heidi has meticulously developed a tailored treatment program that prioritizes the unique qualities of everyone, placing them at the centre of their care journey. 

In the face of demographic shifts and a looming shortage of healthcare professionals, Heidi recognizes the urgent need for innovative solutions to meet the escalating demand for dementia care. With a keen understanding of the challenges faced by families dealing with dementia, NOEN is committed to bridging the gap by providing comprehensive and compassionate services. 

Identifying systemic issues such as the lack of innovation and traditional healthcare approaches, NOEN has spearheaded the development of a salutogenic health service. This groundbreaking approach focuses on enhancing factors that support overall health and well-being, tailored specifically for individuals with chronic conditions and cognitive impairment, utilizing technology for standardized delivery. 

Driven by a vision of transformative change, Heidi and NOEN are leading efforts to revolutionize attitudes towards dementia care within the public healthcare sector. Heidi envisions a paradigm shift towards holistic and humanistic values, empowering both patients and their families to navigate the challenges of dementia with dignity and resilience. 

With a steadfast commitment to knowledge-based systems change, Heidi aims to establish a widely accepted salutogenic healthcare approach, ensuring that individuals with dementia receive the compassionate support and respect they rightfully deserve. 

Learn more about Heldi and NEON here 

At Manah Wellness, the mission is clear: To cultivate champions of well-being by empowering individuals and organizations to embark on their mental health journey. 

In a world where mental health often takes a backseat, Manah Wellness confronts the prevalent issue of neglecting mental well-being. They recognize the silent crisis of untreated conditions like anxiety, depression, and stress, which silently erode the fabric of individuals and communities, fostering a culture of silent suffering. 

Understanding the profound consequences of ignoring mental health, Manah Wellness conducts extensive awareness campaigns and destigmatization efforts while improving access to mental health resources. They firmly believe that addressing mental health is not just an individual concern but a societal imperative, as untreated issues affect personal relationships, work productivity, and community cohesion. 

Ashwin, the visionary leader behind Manah Wellness, is a staunch advocate for proactive education and engagement around mental health, starting from a young age. By normalizing conversations about emotions, stress, and self-care, he aims to empower young minds to recognize and express their feelings, laying the foundation for a mentally resilient future. 

Ashwin envisions a society where parents, teachers, and communities actively participate in this educational journey, fostering an environment where mental health is prioritized and valued. Through collective efforts, he believes we can shape a culture that celebrates mental well-being, leading to lasting benefits for individuals and society. 

Learn more about Ashwin and Manah Wellness here 

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FA.VELA is dedicated to tackling inequality by providing equitable access to quality education, with a specific focus ondigital and entrepreneurial skills for marginalized groups, notably women and older adults. 

In a technology-driven era, those without access to digital tools risk being left behind. FA.VELA's mission is to ensure that everyone has the necessary skills to thrive in the digital age, not just in technical proficiency but also in entrepreneurial capabilities essential for success. 

To create a fairer society, it's crucial to provide equal opportunities for all, particularly in the digital realm where women and older adults often face significant barriers. FA.VELA recognizes this disparity and works to bridge the digital divide by offering essential services and connectivity to those who need it most.  

At the heart of FA.VELA's efforts is "Perifa 60+," an eight-month educational program tailored for marginalized older adults, offering digital literacy and  holistic support, including group counselling, cultural events, and city tours, enhancing participants' overall quality of life. 

Joao, the visionary behind FA.VELA, promotes healthy longevity through by providing access to the digital world, to combat feelings of loneliness and hopelessness among older generations, ultimately improving their well-being. 

Through initiatives like "Perifa 60+," FA.VELA is paving the way for a more inclusive and vibrant society, where everyone, regardless of age or background, can harness the benefits of the digital age and contribute to a brighter future. 

Learn more about Joao and FA.VELA here 

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Sérgio Serapião leads a national movement in Brazil, reshaping the narrative surrounding old age and positioning older adults as catalysts for social innovation. 

Despite being the lone demographic group on the rise in Brazil, individuals over 50 often encounter marginalization and bias in both public and private spheres. Sérgio acknowledges the vast potential within this demographic, constituting over 25% of Brazil's populace and projected to reach nearly 40% within 15 years. His mission is to challenge the prevailing youth-centric ethos that sidelines older adults, denying them meaningful opportunities for work and participation in global endeavors. 

Recognizing the imperative for a shift in perception around senior talent, Sérgio advocates for data-driven initiatives to underpin this transformation. Through Labora, he tackles the primary obstacles hindering senior talent from re-entering the workforce with a holistic technological solution. 

Labora's initiatives encompass an online community fostering camaraderie, an extensive e-learning platform offering courses in emerging professions and self-awareness, and an algorithm designed to counter unconscious bias in job placements. Furthermore, Labora assists companies in combatting ageism within their organizational structures, while also introducing adaptable job roles tailored to the preferences of senior talent. 

Sérgio champions the concept of longevity as an asset, celebrating the rich experience and wisdom that accompany older age as invaluable assets for societal advancement. He advocates for a cultural shift where individuals of all ages are esteemed for their distinct contributions, proposing flexible work arrangements aligned with varying life stages and needs. 

In Sérgio's vision, harnessing the diverse skills and perspectives of older adults is instrumental in tackling pressing societal issues, fostering productivity and innovation across generational lines. Through introspection and concerted action, he strives to cultivate a future where individuals of all ages are empowered to contribute meaningfully to a more inclusive and prosperous society.

Learn more about Sergio Serapião and Labora here 

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Beka is on a mission to redefine aging, striving to create a world where older adults can lead vibrant lives well into their 90s through embracing healthy practices and staying active.

In South Africa, rural-to-urban migration often leaves older adults in villages taking on the responsibility of caring for grandchildren. This role, coupled with economic and social challenges, contributes to stress-related illnesses like hypertension. Bekka recognizes that a lack of exercise exacerbates their physical decline, influenced by a prevailing sedentary culture in rural areas. 

To address these issues, Beka's foundation mobilizes women over 50 to form soccer teams within their communities. Through regular training sessions and daily morning jogs, these teams foster physical fitness and foster camaraderie among participants. Bekka encourages involvement by organizing soccer tournaments, sponsored by partnering organizations, offering rewards to participants. Monthly contributions from team members sustain the foundation's operations and establish a support fund. 

Beyond financial support, the soccer teams provide a vital sense of belonging and support, easing the daily burdens experienced by grandmothers. Bekka's initiatives have garnered international attention, notably with the "Grannies International Football Tournament" in March 2023, which brought together teams from Africa, the United States, and Europe. This event catalyzed global interest, leading other countries to establish formal systems for older adult football programs. 

Beka's impact extends to primary schools, where she educates students on the importance of exercise and respect for older adults. Her ultimate vision is to promote happiness and health among older adults worldwide, envisioning a future where football serves as a conduit to improved physical and emotional well-being in later life. 

Learn more about Bekka and Bekka Ntsanwisi Foundation here  

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Cycling Without Age is dedicated to reintegrating nursing home residents, often marginalized from society, into the vibrant tapestry of urban life. Their mission revolves around fostering intergenerational connections and showcasing the joy that comes from shared experiences. 

In a world characterized by bustling urban lifestyles, meaningful interactions between different age groups are often scarce. Many care facilities, isolated from the surrounding community, exacerbate this disconnect, robbing residents of valuable opportunities to engage with individuals from different generations. This lack of understanding perpetuates stereotypes that portray older adults as burdens rather than valuable contributors to society. Conversely, the absence of older adults in daily life deprives younger generations of the wisdom and experiences they bring, hindering the development of empathy and tolerance. 

In Sweden, where a significant percentage of older adults' experience loneliness, Cycling Without Age steps in to combat social isolation by offering opportunities for active citizenship and community engagement. By taking older adults on trishaw rides through city streets, they provide them with the chance to feel the wind in their hair, immerse themselves in nature, and reminisce about their past experiences in familiar surroundings. Through these outings, Cycling Without Age breaks down generational barriers, fostering trust, respect, and social cohesion within society. 

The organization's vision extends to creating inclusive communities where age, background, or mobility limitations do not hinder participation in social life. They advocate for initiatives such as reducing car dependency, promoting active transportation, and encouraging increased local engagement. Furthermore, Cycling Without Age champions the cultivation of new values centred around better mental and physical health, as well as the preservation of biodiversity. 

Beyond merely providing rides, Cycling Without Age is about building connections, nurturing empathy, and striving towards a world where every individual, regardless of age or ability, can actively participate in the rich social fabric of their communities. 

Learn more about Ole Kassow and Cycling without Age here 

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I learned how to apply the business tools I learned and adapt them for the social entrepreneurs of Ashoka, helping them bring their vision and dreams to life to achieve major system change. It has given my life inspiration and purpose for the past 20 years

I find it very rewarding to serve as a thought partner of the Ashoka Globalizer program, where I get to work with talented and passionate teams of social changemakers on projects that have a real potential to make a huge systems-wide impact. I gain as much as, if not more than, I give on these projects!

I strongly believe in the potential for social entrepreneurs to drive sustainable, systemic change around big problems and hope to contribute learnings from my experiences developing strategies for leading consumer brands, as well as work with prior Globalizer Fellows.

Seeing the passion and drive with which the social entrepreneurs create societal impact is truly inspiring. I hope to contribute to their mission with my the skills and experiences I gained from my practical experience as a consultant.

The accelerator program is an intense experience not only for the Fellows but also the Thought Partners – but it is extremely rewarding and inspiring to be able to support and learn from the amazing social entrepreneurs and their teams. I have been participating multiple times over the years now and plan to come back regularly!

As a seasoned thought partner, I enjoy coming back to these accelerators because it deepens my practice as a systems thinker and it is incredibly rewarding to support social entrepreneurs in their change making journey.

The Accelerator program has been incredibly enriching. I've been truly impressed by the level of dedication exhibited by the Fellows as they pursue their goals, as well as by the remarkable achievements they've already made on their journeys. I highly appreciate the structured systems change approach provided by Ashoka, and I intend to integrate it into my own life as I move forward.

I am always amazed with the level of competence and commitment from both the program leaders, coaches and social entrepreneurs. A true inspiration

 The accelerator program does not only offer me insights into the latest megatrends, but also the opportunity to work with some of the most inspiring people on the planet. Their relentless effort to drive systems change is what leaves with me with an immense amount of optimism and gratitude at the end of the day.

Great experience, very motivating! While the daily news generate Social Depression, in reality  there are so many fantastic and creative solutions out there we all could learn from and talk about to inspire others. The Ashoka Globalizer is the best place to meet those great people and solutions! I always feel so lucky and happy to work with the amazing Ashoka Fellows

I have served as a Strategic Thought Partner to the Globalizer for a number of seasons now and it is with great pleasure that I am also a part of the Thought Partner team serving Philomena Anyanwu the founder of El-Aged, Imo State, Nigeria. As a serial social entrepreneur and a septuagenarian it is really good to be able to work with Philomena in supporting elderly, and often poor, people in rural Nigeria. By first starting with the systemic issues that the El-Aged approach touches upon and then moving to the strategic and finally operational we really understand how a relatively small organisation sits in the ecosystem of Imo State and Nigeria as a whole. We see the situation of elderly people not as a problem awaiting charity but as part of the dynamic of a fast developing country with all its struggles and successes. It is this that characterises the Globalizer for what it is – a living tool which supports both the Ashoka Fellow and her organisation as she makes bold moves to deepen, improve and grow her public offering. The potential of the Globalizer seems endless!

Great opportunity to learn from diversity of thoughts and from Ashoka’s flawless, agile way of functioning. We cover so much in so little time yet we have never lost sight of our goal, love the shared commitment which everyone brings. 

Globalizer has been an enriching experience and a profound learning opportunity. Witnessing the remarkable drive and innovative approach of the founder is inspiring. Equally, the breadth of knowledge and expertise of my fellow thought partners is humbling. Ashoka’s robust process challenges us to dive deeper and think as a system. It’s a journey.

Globalizer has been an enriching experience and a profound learning opportunity. Witnessing the remarkable drive and innovative approach of the founder is inspiring. Equally, the breadth of knowledge and expertise of my fellow thought partners is humbling. Ashoka’s robust process challenges us to dive deeper and think as a system. It’s a journey.