Skip to content

HOME
GUESTS
INTERVIEW CATEGORIES
RESOURCES
BLOGS
- Suzanne F. Stevens blog
- What’s new?
ABOUT
Log in
Log Out
Close Search Form Open Search Form

Share on Facebook Tweet (Share on Twitter) Share on Linkedin Share on Google+ Pin it (Share on Pinterest)

Interview by Country

The YouMeWe Amplified Podcast has interviewed changemakers and conscious-contributors in twenty countries.

Select a country flag to reveal a directory of interviews.

Canada

Ethiopia

eSwatini

Kenya

Lesotho

Malawi

Morocco

Namibia

Rwanda

south africa flag

South Africa

Tanzania

Uganda

united kingdom flag

United Kingdom

united states flag

United States

Zimbabwe

Interview Topics

Advocacy
Charity
Social responsibility
Education
Nonprofit
Philanthropic
Politics
Social enterprise
Volunteerism

Archives 2010 to present

Archives 2010 to present

youmewemovement

As I pause today, a mix of gratitude and sadness f

As I pause today, a mix of gratitude and sadness fills me. I think of those who fought, sacrificed, and gave their lives for our values and freedoms—and yet, wars still rage. Conflicts around land, beliefs, and identities persist. And now, rights that should be fundamental—like sexual and reproductive health and freedoms—are under threat, stripped away in parts of our world. We lose sight of unity and shared purpose, divided by the very differences that could strengthen our collective humanity.

Reflecting on this, I felt an urge to regain control amidst the chaos. So, I cleaned. Not just tidied—but purged. Files, cupboards, years of memorabilia... Each item dusted off a memory, an opportunity, a reminder of the privilege I’ve enjoyed. And yet, I recognize that so many others haven’t been as fortunate, often marginalized by race, religion, culture, or gender—barriers that some of us have never faced.

Through this exercise, three realizations resonated:

1️⃣ Privilege is a gift and a responsibility. Conscious leaders have opportunities to create space for others. Those of us who can walk through open doors have a duty to hold them open for others.

2️⃣ Control the controllable. Cleaning my space wasn’t just physical—it was cathartic. In a world that feels out of control, focusing on what’s within our reach can restore a sense of purpose and clarity.

3️⃣ True freedom is found in authenticity. To honor those who fought for our rights, we must protect the right of every individual to be fully themselves, to express their truth, and to embrace the freedom to live without fear of prejudice or judgment.

As leaders, we have the power to shape a legacy where respect for one another’s choices, identities, and experiences creates a ripple of change. 🌊
This Remembrance Day, let’s commit to ensuring that the sacrifices of the past empower everyone’s future. Let’s work to break down the barriers that divide us and amplify the voices that unite us.

Ready to make waves? Let’s connect and keep the conversation going on how we, as hashtag#consciousleaders, can contribute to a world where everyone’s authenticity is respected and celebrated. #socialimpact #womenentrepreneurs

I don’t have a daughter. I’m not American. But

I don’t have a daughter. I’m not American. But I don’t need a daughter, or a shared nationality, to feel compassion for women everywhere—across races, ages, religions, cultures, and identities. When I read Paul Ladipo post, I couldn’t help but think of the many Black African women who helped shape who I am today.

Spending two years traveling through Africa, interviewing women IMPACT leaders in politics, business, advocacy, and nonprofit work, taught me invaluable lessons. These women showed me—both a Westerner and a Canadian—how to lead inclusively, build businesses that uplift the marginalized, and contribute meaningfully to society. Their inspiration transformed how I lead, how I contribute, and how I show up in the world.

So, when I read Paul’s post, my resolve was only strengthened. Sitting on the sidelines is not an option. Now is the time for each of us to lean in, raise our voices, and be a part of the change.

Here are three things you can do right now:
1. Amplify Voices: Share, promote, and celebrate the work of women and other marginalized communities striving to make a positive impact. Whether you’re an advocate, entrepreneur, or ally, your support can create ripples that strengthen their reach and influence.

2. Educate and Engage: Engage in real conversations about race, gender, and rights in your circles and communities. By understanding each other’s experiences, we can start to bridge gaps and shift mindsets. It’s uncomfortable, yes, but necessary.

3.Take Care of Yourself: Activism is a marathon, not a sprint. Carve out time to recharge, reflect, and reconnect with why this work matters. Our strength is sustained by caring for our own well-being so we can continue showing up.

As VP Kamala Harris said, "It is not time to raise your hands, but roll up your sleeves."

I will continue to amplify women’s voices and stand for social change. And I will not go quietly into that good night until all women are treated equally and those in power understand that denying rights only reveals a fear of the power we truly hold.
#conscousleadership, #socialimpact #impactleaders #impactpreneurs #womenleaders #womensupportingwomen #womenempowerment #women

The secret ingredient to empowerment? Purpose-driv

The teacher becomes the student. As Wave-Makers

The teacher becomes the student.

As Wave-Makers and social impact leaders, we’re here to lift others. But how often do we pause to consider that the people we help might need to offer something in return—not for our sake, but for theirs?

This week, the importance of dignity took on a new meaning for me. My 90-year-old neighbor, having just lost her son, found herself facing deep loss, confusion, and an uncertain future. After expressing my condolences, I stepped in—organizing meals, clearing her son’s apartment, coordinating with doctors and lawyers...

On day two, she tried to give me a gift as thanks. I declined. By day three, she insisted, handing me a small token from her birthplace in Germany. It struck me that accepting this gift wasn’t about me at all; it was about her (I don't even know if she is aware of how much I like beer!).

In the midst of chaos, this was one thing she could control. This was her way to maintain a sense of dignity and purpose.

As conscious leaders, the question isn’t just about what we can give but also how we receive. Allowing others the opportunity to reciprocate—even in small ways—gives them a sense of power, a chance to feel needed, and ultimately, dignified.

So, as you make waves of change, remember this: Accept what those you serve may offer, however small. In doing so, you’re giving them back a piece of their own strength.

Are you creating space for others to give back? Let’s empower with reciprocity.
#SocialImpact, #WaveMakers, #consciousleadership #socialenterpreneurs #weculture #youmewemovement

Did you know that October is not only #WomensHisto

Did you know that October is not only #WomensHistoryMonth in Canada, but it’s also:

Small Business Month

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

National Disability Employment Awareness Month

Autism Awareness Month

Dyslexia Awareness Month

Yet, amidst all this vital awareness, Women’s History Month in Canada seems to have slipped through the cracks. I’ve heard mention of every other cause in the media, but the celebration of the incredible contributions of Canadian women? Crickets.

Why is that?

This year’s theme is "Through Her Lens: Celebrating the Diversity of Women"—spotlighting the unique perspectives of Indigenous women, 2SLGBTQI+ communities, women with disabilities, newcomers, and more. It’s a moment to reflect on their struggles, triumphs, and the impact they’ve made in shaping a more inclusive Canada. But without recognition, how do we fully honor this diversity?

This silence is concerning, especially when we know that parity still doesn’t exist in Canada. And the silence surrounding Women’s History Month only underscores how much more work we need to do.

As a Wave-Maker, I’ve been celebrating Women’s History Month in my way—by interviewing extraordinary women who aren’t just talking about change but are living it, catalyzing sustainable social solutions in their communities. These women are making waves. 🌊🌊🌊

So, who’s your Canadian woman making a difference?

Who inspires you, your community, or your business? Let’s shine a spotlight on the women transforming Canada today. Add their names below so we can celebrate them!

#WomensHistoryMonth #CelebrateWomen #CanadianWomen #WaveMakers #SocialImpact #DiversityMatters #WomenEmpowerment #youmewe

There are few things I love more than this! When

Have you ever thought about what your parents taug

Ever feel like you’re on a mission to make waves

Does their body language scream ‘leader’ or ‘liar’?
Conscious leaders know that communication is more than just words (because let’s face it, political debates often say nothing). What truly speaks volumes is body language. By observing the non-verbal cues of US presidential nominees during the debate, we can learn a lot about who we’d want to follow—or even emulate as leaders.
Body language cues from each candidate offer insights into their leadership style. These observations hold lessons for Conscious Leaders aiming to inspire, influence, and drive action. Let’s break it down:
Donald Trump:
1. The Power Pose Perch – Standing wide, elbows out, and chest puffed up like he owns the room. Lesson: Confidence is key, but overdoing it creates barriers. Balance presence with approachability.
2. The Pinch-and-Point Parade – His go-to thumb-to-index-finger gesture, often evolving into a point. Lesson: Precision reinforces authority, but overuse can be abrasive.
3. The Leaning Tower of Trump – Forward-leaning into the mic, hammering a point home—subtlety not included. Lesson: Leaning in emphasizes a point, but leaders must also lean back and listen.
4. The Shrug of Shrugs – A quick raise of the shoulders when cornered, as if to say, "What can I tell ya?" Lesson: Shrugging off challenges sends the wrong message. Own your positions with confidence.
5. The Chopping Block Chop – A swift, downward hand chop to slice through conversation or cut off an opponent. Lesson: Sharp gestures can signal urgency, but overuse makes you appear dismissive or aggressive.
Kamala Harris:
1. The Raised Eyebrow Remix – One eyebrow slightly up, a hint of skepticism with sass. Lesson: Use sparingly to communicate awareness without seeming overly critical.
2. The Tilt-and-Talk Tactic – Tilting her head while speaking, signaling empathy and understanding. Lesson: A tilted head connects on a human level but, for women, be cautious—limit use to avoid looking like you’re seeking permission.

How well do you know your body language 1 - 10? Best engagement technique?

Gain access to 25% savings on the launch of the course "The Authentic Voice: Present Purposefully & Persuasively." https://youmeweampl

How is your follow-through? We talk a lot about a

How is your follow-through?

We talk a lot about authenticity, alignment, and purpose—but let’s get real for a second. How often do we actually follow through on what we promise, not only to others but to ourselves?

Recently, I wrapped up a coaching series that focused on reaching a client’s full potential. As excited as I am about her transformational journey, I was honestly taken aback by one thing she said.

For over a decade, she had been seeking a coach—filling out intake forms, sending emails, following up after a speakers' offers, only to be met with... crickets. No follow-through. Ten years. Can you imagine?

When she finally found me through a conference, she almost hesitated—after all, follow-through had been a foreign concept in her experience. But guess what? I showed up, and we did the work together.

Here’s what she said:

"It was one of the single best things I’ve ever done for myself. Suzanne walked me through uncertainty, helped me correct my path, and guided me toward something better than I could’ve imagined."

Why am I sharing this?

Because my client could have been living a more fulfilled life years ago.

Follow-through is everything. It’s not just about what you say you’ll do. It’s about showing up. Showing up for your clients, your team, your mission—but most importantly, for yourself.

So, how is your follow-through? Are you walking your talk? Are you committed to seeing it through, even when life throws curveballs?

Your authenticity isn’t just in the grand gestures—it’s in the details, in the follow-up, and in the consistency of your actions.

Ready to reach your full potential and follow through? I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s make it happen. If you want to transform your life and live your potential, DM me, and I promise to send you the assessment that started my client's transformational journey.

#AmplifyYourVoice #ConsciousLeadership #WomenLeaders #SocialImpact #FollowThrough #founder #nonprofit #womenentrepreneurs

🌊 I'm Suzanne F. Stevens, your Wave-Maker at the YouMeWe Social Impact Group, empowering a WE Culture through conscious leadership development

Do this this long weekend! Ever had one of those

Do this this long weekend!

Ever had one of those moments when life just shows up—unannounced, bringing a delightful surprise? Maybe you run into an old friend, a distant family member, or a colleague you haven't seen in years. These encounters aren't mere coincidences; they're invitations. Invitations to connect, to listen, and to grow.

If life shows up, embrace it. Pause. Take a breath. Stop doing what you were about to do. You're called to this moment. Dive IN! Because those seemingly random moments are often where magic happens. It's in these spontaneous connections that we find inspiration, rekindle old dreams, and spark new ones. This is where conscious leadership starts—by being present, open, and ready to embrace what life has to offer.
Making your contributions count isn’t about rigid plans and predictable outcomes. It’s about staying adaptable, being real, and allowing yourself to be moved by the unexpected. That’s where true growth lies. In the laughter with a friend, the shared stories with a colleague, or the wisdom from a family member you haven't seen in ages.
These moments are gifts—unwrapping them with curiosity and an open heart is what sets impactful leaders apart. So, the next time life shows up, don’t shy away. Embrace it fully, because your next big wave of change might just be waiting in that unexpected hello.
Your journey to impact is paved with these beautiful surprises. Ready to embrace it?
#ConsciousLeadership #SocialImpact #WomenEntrepreneurs #EmbraceLife #AmplifyYourWave #Founders

Authenticity isn't just a buzzword—it's the curr

Authenticity isn't just a buzzword—it's the currency of leadership, the very essence of what it means to amplify your voice and impact. I, a Canadian no less, found myself, once again, captivated by another night of the Democratic National Convention.

I was swept away by the powerful oratory, the raw authenticity, and the inspiration (Oh, Obamas, you never disappoint). But what struck me most was this: the possibility of electing a woman who defies every conventional norm.

An American born to Indian and Jamaican immigrants, raised by her mother in a working-class family and yet rose to become a former district attorney. A woman with no biological children who chose to put her profession first. Married to a man who left his own successful practice to support his wife’s vision—oh, how I can relate to that! VP Kamala Harris is a woman who is part of a blended family and unapologetically her joyous self!

Watching the convention, it dawned on me: this could do more for women than Michelle Obama's sleeveless dresses ever did (although, I don’t take away from Michelle’s trend-setting! It was impressive.)

As a woman who knew I couldn’t—and didn’t want to—do it all, who chose not to have children, I realized that VP Kamala Harris' election would propel intersectional women forward in a way few other moments could.

Yes, she must perform—no question there. And the world will watch her every move. But let's strip all that away for a moment.

The sheer act of placing a qualified woman in the highest office, with all her beautiful uniqueness, sends a resounding message: society is finally ready to embrace the bold and conscious leadership of an intersectional woman who puts citizens first rather than settling for an unhinged alternative.

Sometimes, the universe aligns with the right opponent to create a pathway for tolerance.

So, to my American colleagues, friends, and citizens—this is your moment to change the narrative. Vote. Because the story you write today will catalyze the conscious leadership of tomorrow.

If you want to amplify your authentic voice, register here for my hybrid course launch and save – 25% https://youmeweamplified.com/register

Ever feel like your impact is soaring while your b

Ever feel like your impact is soaring while your bank account is plummeting?

You’re passionately driving your social impact, watching your mission take flight, and then—bam!

It can happen to all of us. I was so busy donating to higher education for women, fighting violence against women, amplifying the voices of IMPACT leaders (podcast.youmewe.ca), and speaking at women’s events for free; sound familiar?

Then you realize the numbers aren’t adding up. We get so caught up in the cause that we sometimes compromise our cash flow, leaving us scrambling to sustain both our impact and our livelihood.

The struggle is real, but it doesn’t have to be the reality. Balancing purpose and profit is not just possible; it’s essential. With the right resources, strategies, and community, you can fuel your entrepreneurial spirit and social impact initiatives without sacrificing one for the other.

There are countless tools and resources out there designed to help you grow your business and your impact. Don’t let passion alone drive your decisions—empower them with knowledge and support.

Let’s ensure your mission thrives without you burning out. Ready to balance impact and income? Explore resources here. https://youmeweamplified.com/signup #IMPACTLeaders #SocialImpact #nonprofit #womenentrepreneur #socialenterprise #funding #consciousleaders #consciousleadership

I found you some $$ ⏰ Time is the currency we t

I found you some $$
⏰ Time is the currency we treasure most, yet it’s the one thing people often expect for free.

But let's cut through the noise—because your time is precious, and so is mine.

You’re ready to grow your business, amplify your social impact, and make your mark. But where’s the funding to fuel that vision?
Here’s the deal: securing funding doesn’t have to be a time-sink or a mystery. Let me share who has capital and will invest in you to save you time in the search.

Whether scaling a business or driving social change, time is money; both are too valuable to waste. I personally used 8, but I love 11.

https://youmeweamplified.com/signup

#womenentrepreneurs #socialimpact #consciousleaders #socialentrepreneurs #ChangeMakers #money #pitch

Stop Being Nice. I recently read a post on Linked

Stop Being Nice.

I recently read a post on LinkedIn that took me aback. One woman said that she often gets associated with being 'nice' and 'kind,' and one of the respondents commented, " That's why you're my people because you're nice."

I've always had a problem with the concept of "nice." It's something we do to be accepted. It stems from conditioning. Often, quiet people are perceived as "nice," as if by making room for others to speak, we are nice. Stop being nice. Because nice is "being agreeable, fine, or subtle." Where "kind" is friendly, generous, and considerate in nature.

Let's be real: niceness is overrated. It’s a mask we wear to fit in, to avoid ruffling feathers. But what impact do we truly have when we’re merely nice? When we dilute our voices to make others comfortable, we do a disservice to ourselves and the causes we champion.

Authenticity isn't about being palatable; it's about being powerful. It’s about speaking your truth, standing firm in your convictions, and leading with courage. As women leaders and entrepreneurs aiming to make a social impact, we don’t need to be nice—we need to be real, raw, and resolute.

Conscious leadership is about embracing your authentic voice and creating room for others to embrace theirs. It means being kind, yes, but also being bold, daring, and unapologetically YOU!

If you're ready to stop being nice and lean into your authentic voice, visit

https://youmewe.ca/persuasive-presentations-course/ for a special course launch pricing.

Join a community of entrepreneurs and nonprofits who want to Inspire, Influence, and Drive Social Impact with Proven Global Strategies in a Hybrid Program. Let's make a difference, not just a good impression.

#consciousleaders #impactleaders #socialimpact #stopbeingnice #smallbusiness #women #womenentrepreneurs #nonprofitleaders #socialentrepreneurs

Am I the only one who gets shivers? As I'm sittin

Am I the only one who gets shivers?

As I'm sitting here, working away, I have the Olympics opening ceremonies on. Paris has done something never done before, taking the opening ceremonies out of the confinement of the stadium to the banks of the Seine.

The Olympics are a magnificent spectacle of connection and collaboration. Athletes from around the world unite, showcasing their sheer grit and determination. In this arena, weapons don't exist—only fair play (one would hope) and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

This global gathering reminds us of the power of unity. Despite our differences, we can come together, inspire one another, and achieve greatness. It’s a powerful testament to what we can accomplish when we collaborate and lift each other up.

Isn’t that what we strive for in our own lives and businesses?

To connect, to collaborate, and to inspire? The Olympic Games are a beautiful reminder of the impact we can make when we work together with a shared purpose.

So, as I watch these incredible athletes and the spectacle of the ceremonies, I feel more motivated than ever to continue our mission. Let’s embrace the Olympic spirit in our daily lives, pushing boundaries, fostering connections, and making a hashtag#SocialImpact.

Who’s with me?
#Olympics #connection #inspiration #IMPACTLeaders #consciousleadership #youmewe #smallbusiness #nonprofit #womenentrepreneurs #womenleaders

Hey there, Impact Leaders (entrepreneurs, nonprofi

One of the core characteristics of a #consciouslea

One of the core characteristics of a #consciousleader is removing your ego from a decision. I don't know if President Joe Biden completely removed his ego, but what he did do was choose to move aside to increase the chances for the Democratic party. As leaders, what can we take away from this?
Imagine what we could achieve if we consistently prioritized the greater good over personal glory. Biden’s decision, whether driven by ego or not, underscores powerful leadership lessons:
1. Sometimes stepping back is the boldest move forward.
2. It takes strength to make tough decisions that may not be popular, but are necessary. Courage is admitting that a different path might serve the greater goal better. This isn’t about surrender; it’s about strategic retreat for the betterment of all.
3. True impact, true leadership, is about recognizing when our presence is a hindrance rather than a help. It’s about making choices that amplify the collective good, even if it means putting our own aspirations on hold, or in the President’s case, in retirement.
Let’s challenge ourselves to lead with conscious intention, to assess each decision with the lens of impact rather than ego. Let’s make waves, because the ripple effects could transform our teams, our organizations, and ultimately, our world.
How will you apply these lessons of conscious leadership today? Let's make our contributions count. 💪✨ #Leadership #ConsciousLeadership #YouMeWe #makeyourcontributioncount #entrepreneurs #impactleaders #womenentrepreneurs #nonprofits

Ready to Challenge the Status Quo? Ever wonder w

🌟💬 "Thank you. Now you try it. Really. Thank

🌟💬 "Thank you. Now you try it. Really. Thank you!" Simple, right? Then why do we often react to a compliment as if we’re back in a schoolyard, sneaking glances at our first crush, all blushing and bashful? 🙈

A couple of weeks ago, I was with a group of women, and every time someone complimented someone else, there was awkwardness followed by a longggg explanation of what was being observed.

We experience this all the time. Whether it’s our hair, our outfit, or our ideas (less the last one)—when praise comes our way, too many of us launch into a monologue, minimizing our role in our own awesomeness. "Oh, it’s just in my genes," or "I got this from a friend," or “I was just building on John’s idea,” we demur as if we had nothing to do with it.

Listen up, you smart, styling, seriously savvy soul: just say THANK YOU. Stand tall, shoulders back, no apologies or foot-shuffling needed. Own it. You deserve every bit of recognition. 🌟

And while we're changing the culture of compliments, let’s make a pact. Let's stop telling little girls they're "pretty." Dive deeper. Discover something uniquely wonderful about her. Because guess what? I was once told, "Suzanne can’t ride on her looks forever." Good news, I didn’t have to. hashtag#YouMeWe hashtag#Empowerment hashtag#OwnIt
#impactleaders #consciousness #consciousleadership #womenentrepreneurs #women

Load More Follow on Instagram

Resouces

Women Driving Social Impact Community
YouMeWe Foundation
Join the YouMeWe Movement
Work with Suzanne
YouMeWe Resource Centre
YouMeWe Infusions
YouMeWe the Book
YouMeWe Store

Main Navigation

HOME
GUESTS
INTERVIEW CATEGORIES
RESOURCES
BLOGS
- Suzanne F. Stevens blog
- What’s new?
ABOUT
Log in
Log Out

interview topics

Advocacy
Charity
Social responsibility
Education
Nonprofit
Philanthropic
Politics
Social enterprise
Volunteerism

LET'S CONNECT

Copyright ©2011-2024 YouMeWe Amplified (formerly WisdomExchangeTv) | YouMeWe Social Impact Group Inc. All rights reserved.

DISCLAIMER: The views expressed are the interviewees' and bloggers' and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the YouMeWe Social Impact Group Inc., YouMeWe Amplified (formerly WisdomExchangeTv) producers or host, or the advertisers.