Layla Ramirez
Director, DEIB, Justworks
📍New York, NY
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 purpose into their core business strategy. Leading with values means embedding social responsibility into decision-making, from product development to supply chains. Rather than one-time contributions, businesses should focus on sustained, long-term impact—leveraging their unique expertise, resources, and networks. Committing a percentage of one’s equity, time, profit, or product through initiatives like Pledge 1% is a great way to ensure impact grows alongside business success.
What’s the legacy you hope to leave for future generations?
I hope to leave a legacy of a world where opportunity and talent are equally distributed—where everyone, regardless of background, has the resources and support to realize their full potential. True progress happens when barriers are removed and people are empowered to contribute their skills, ideas, and passions to society.
This means fostering access to education, mentorship, and economic opportunity, ensuring that those who choose to pursue their dreams have the means to do so. It’s about creating systems that uplift rather than exclude, where success isn’t determined by circumstance but by determination and ability.
If future generations inherit a world where talent is recognized and nurtured everywhere, not just in privileged spaces, we will have built a more thriving society.
If you could choose one word to define your leadership style, what would it be and why?
Inclusive. Because true leadership is about creating an environment where every voice is heard, valued, and empowered. Having experienced the power of inclusive leadership firsthand, I am convinced that it is the key to navigating change, unlocking potential, and driving sustained success.
An inclusive approach fosters diverse perspectives, fuels innovation, and strengthens teams by ensuring that everyone feels a sense of belonging and purpose. It’s not just about giving people a seat at the table—it’s about making sure they have a voice in shaping the future.
By prioritizing inclusivity, leaders cultivate trust, resilience, and a shared commitment to excellence. In a rapidly evolving world, the ability to bring out the best in people—regardless of background or experience—is what sets great leaders apart.
If you could give one piece of advice to the next generation of women leaders, what would it be?
Trust yourself and do the things your future self will thank you for. Every decision is an opportunity to shape the leader you aspire to become—lean into it with confidence. Growth comes from stepping outside your comfort zone, embracing challenges, and owning your voice. The path won’t always be easy, but by investing in yourself and your vision, you’ll create a future where you thrive and inspire others to do the same.
Trust yourself and do the things your future self will thank you for.
Looking ahead, what are you most excited about—whether in your professional journey or personal life?
I’m most excited about continuing to do meaningful, values-aligned work at a company that truly walks the talk. It’s incredibly fulfilling to be part of an organization that prioritizes impact, and I look forward to deepening that commitment through collaboration—both internally and externally—to drive real progress in inclusion and social impact.
On a personal level, I’m thrilled to support my husband as he embarks on his journey of acquiring a small business. Seeing his vision come to life and helping him and his team leverage Justworks to build a strong foundation is something I genuinely look forward to.
This season is full of opportunities to create, contribute, and uplift others, and I’m energized by the potential to make a lasting difference in both my professional and personal life.
