Picture the scene: a vibrant cultural marketplace. From Tunisia, to Kenya to Pakistan, stalls are draped in their national flag and stall-holders are wearing their national dress, brimming with pride at the opportunity to showcase their history and their culture. Then your eye catches a group of people awkwardly huddled in front of five … Continue reading Cultural (lack of) confidence
Author: Martha Mackenzie
I am trying to build a better world for children. I am currently leading UNICEF's global humanitarian advocacy and communication strategy. Before this, I led UK poverty campaigns and government relations at Save the Children. I share thoughts on good leadership and how to deliver social change. I'm an optimist, who believes in people and the power of love (combined with an effective strategy, of course).
The seven Cs for a successful campaign
Day two of Future Leaders Connect began with a fascinating discussion on successful influencing, with Matthew Elliott, Chief Executive of Vote Leave; Kajal Odera, UK Director of Change.org; and Lord Wilson, former Cabinet Secretary. From the very public to the very private, they were hugely candid in their reflections on what works. My day job is … Continue reading The seven Cs for a successful campaign
The art of listening
I’ve written quite a lot in this blog about the importance of putting other voices first – be it the voices that are usually marginalised; the people you are campaigning alongside; or your team and the people you’re seeking to grow and develop. But this approach must go hand in hand with a genuine commitment … Continue reading The art of listening
Powerful leadership at Stonewall
The British Council have asked us to consider: What is the most powerful example of leadership you have seen in your own country? In answering the question, I have written an ode to a leader I've never met, but who's impact I have admired from afar. I am inspired by Ruth Hunt and her leadership … Continue reading Powerful leadership at Stonewall
Essential leadership characteristics
We have been asked to identify: What are the three leadership characteristics which will be essential in your country in the near future? I have cheated, and picked four characteristics I believe are essential. Leaders must have both a passion and commitment for delivering a better world. To be a good leader, you should be motivated … Continue reading Essential leadership characteristics
Three big policy challenges
My take on the question: What are the key future challenges that policy leadership in your country will need to respond to? The fourth industrial revolution. There is no doubt that we are in the midst of a technology revolution. Driven by new technology and our increasingly digital world, the pace of global change is … Continue reading Three big policy challenges
Children’s rights as human rights
Ahead of the Future Leaders Connect programme, we were asked to consider the following question: It’s 70 years since the universal declaration of human rights was proclaimed by the United Nations, but are our human rights better protected today than in 1948? It is a good question, with no easy answer. While there is plenty to … Continue reading Children’s rights as human rights
