Ferny Bengali
Co-President, Sherpaneer Corporation
📍Vienna, VA USA
Pledge 1% is celebrating its 10th Anniversary this year. What can companies do (or do more of) to have a positive social impact in the next 10 years?
Companies can maximize their social impact over the next decade by integrating sustainability, equity, and ethical business practices*into their core operations. Key actions include:
1. Reduce carbon footprints, invest in renewable energy, and adopt circular economy principles.
2. Prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in hiring, leadership, and company culture.
3. Uphold fair wages, humane working conditions, and responsible sourcing.
4. Support education, workforce development, and local economic growth.
5. Develop products and services that address critical societal challenges like climate resilience, financial inclusion, and healthcare access.
6. Maintain ethical governance, share impact reports, and engage stakeholders in decision-making.
What’s the legacy you hope to leave for future generations?
I want to leave a legacy of breaking barriers, empowering communities, and fostering inclusive, forward-thinking business practices. By challenging the status quo, investing in underrepresented voices, and promoting fair, innovative approaches to business, I hope to create lasting opportunities for future generations to thrive.
If you could choose one word to define your leadership style, what would it be and why?
Candor - because I value honesty, direct communication, and transparency in decision-making. Fostering a culture of trust by addressing challenges head-on, providing clear feedback, and encouraging open dialogue is an approach that not only drives accountability but also empowers teams to innovate and collaborate more effectively.
If you could give one piece of advice to the next generation of women leaders, what would it be?
My advice to future generations of women leaders is: Build the ladder to lift others. When you see a problem, create a solution—people will follow. Leadership is about paving the way for others while driving meaningful change.
When you see a problem, create a solution—people will follow.
Looking ahead, what are you most excited about—whether in your professional journey or personal life?
Looking ahead, I’m most excited about the opportunity to watch my kids grow and become responsible adults. It’s such a rewarding journey, and I’m grateful for the time I’m getting to spend with them. I’m also excited about reaching a point where I have the time and means to help others—there’s a lot of fulfillment in giving back. And of course, I’m eager to explore the world through travel, experiencing new places and cultures along the way.
