Every year, we consult with the leading voices in social impact, purpose, and sustainability and ask that they share their predictions for what lies ahead in 2025. From technological advancements and evolving corporate responsibilities to a new U.S. presidential administration and cut-backs in DEI investments, these experts share their perspectives on the future of purposeful work.

We invited Justina Nixon-Saintil, Chief Impact Officer at IBM; Martin Whittaker, CEO of JUST Capital; Caryl Stern, Managing Director at LionTree; and Jennifer Lawson, CEO of Keep America Beautiful, to share their predictions for 2025. Each brings a unique perspective shaped by their experience in social impact, corporate responsibility, and sustainability. Together, they explore the challenges and opportunities ahead, including how purpose-driven organizations can create meaningful change in the new year.

Listen for insights on:

• AI’s transformative potential to improve education, community engagement, and nonprofit work
• Why it’s urgent that businesses move beyond superficial commitments
• Disability inclusion as a critical aspect of DEI
• How collective action can help address environmental issues

Resources + Links:

• Justina Nixon-Saintil’s LinkedIn
• Justina Nixon-Saintil’s Purpose 360 Podcast Episode
• Martin Whittaker’s LinkedIn
• Martin Whittaker’s Purpose 360 Podcast Episode
• Caryl Stern’s LinkedIn
• Caryl Stern’s Purpose 360 Podcast Episode
• Jennifer Lawson’s LinkedIn
• Jennifer Lawson’s Purpose 360 Podcast Episode

• (00:00 ) - Welcome to Purpose 360


• (00:13 ) - 2025 Purpose Predictions


• (01:02 ) - Justina Nixon-Saintil


• (02:36 ) - AI and Purpose


• (05:59 ) - Advice


• (07:49 ) - Important Social Issues


• (10:08 ) - Last Word


• (11:06 ) - Martin Whittaker


• (11:20 ) - Social Issues in a Trump Administration


• (13:35 ) - Advice


• (15:14 ) - Going Backward?


• (17:47 ) - Engagement


• (19:49 ) - Last Word


• (21:32 ) - Caryl Stern


• (22:48 ) - People with Disabilities


• (24:30 ) - Advice


• (27:03 ) - Challenges


• (28:28 ) - Last Word


• (29:58 ) - Jenny Lawson


• (31:35 ) - Opportunities


• (32:54 ) - Advice


• (34:07 ) - Hands-On Volunteerism


• (35:16 ) - Important Social Issues


• (36:26 ) - Roles in a Trump Administration


• (37:20 ) - Last Word


• (38:17 ) - Wrap Up