Jessica Anderen, CEO of the IKEA Foundation: Driving Global Change through Sustainable Livelihoods, Renewable Energy, and Value-Based Partnerships for a Better Future

Do One Better with Alberto Lidji in Philanthropy, Sustainability and Social Entrepreneurship

In this episode, Jessica Anderen, CEO of the IKEA Foundation, provides an in-depth look at the Foundation's commitment to addressing the most pressing global challenges, particularly poverty and climate change.

She reflects on her journey within the IKEA ecosystem, from her extensive background in the corporate world to her current leadership role at the Foundation, highlighting the continuity in values that has driven her work over the years.

The IKEA Foundation, established by IKEA's founder Ingvar Kamprad 15 years ago, has evolved from a small organization into a significant philanthropic entity, now distributing around 400 million euros annually.

The Foundation focuses on sustainable livelihoods and environmental protection, recognizing the intrinsic link between climate change and poverty. The organization’s mission is aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and its strategy is built on a foundation of strong values and a commitment to creating lasting systemic change.

Jessica emphasizes the importance of being on the ground and listening to the people directly affected by these global challenges. Her global experience, having lived and worked in various regions such as China, Bangladesh, and India, has given her unique insights into the local impacts of climate change and poverty.

This perspective informs the Foundation's approach, which prioritizes partnerships with local organizations that are deeply embedded in their communities and capable of driving sustainable change.

A key aspect of the IKEA Foundation’s work is in the energy sector, particularly in accelerating the shift to renewable energy. Jessica shares an inspiring example from their partnership with the SELCO Foundation in India, which aims to provide sustainable solar energy solutions to healthcare facilities, significantly improving access to care for millions of people. This project illustrates the Foundation's broader strategy of supporting initiatives that offer practical, scalable solutions to global challenges.

Jessica also discusses the Foundation's approach to developing its new strategic cycle, which will take them to 2030, a pivotal year for the SDGs. The strategy is being co-created with partners across different regions, ensuring that it is responsive to the needs on the ground and capable of delivering meaningful impact. Jessica stresses the importance of accountability, both within the Foundation and among its partners, and the need for clear, pragmatic communication to drive action.

Her leadership is characterized by a blend of urgency and optimism, informed by her corporate background, which she leverages to bring a results-oriented mindset to the philanthropic sector. She advocates for simplicity and inclusivity in language and approach, ensuring that their work is accessible and actionable for everyone involved.

Jessica believes that by staying true to their values, continuously learning, and fostering intense collaboration across sectors, the IKEA Foundation can create meaningful, lasting change that benefits people and the planet for generations to come.

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