What is one way you’ve used your personal brand to give back to your community or support a cause you’re passionate about? What impact have you made? We posed this question to 19 thought leaders, and their responses offer powerful examples of using a personal brand for positive change.
- Mentorship Initiatives for Women Entrepreneurs
- Innovative Waste Management Programs
- Supporting Moms with Free Workshops
- Promoting South Africa’s Outsourcing Industry
- Sponsoring Healthcare and Education Initiatives
- Hosting Gluten-Free Cooking Workshops
- Supporting Education Through Scholarships
- Promoting Skilled Trades to Students
- Offering Digital Marketing Workshops
- Supporting Local Businesses and Causes
- Boosting Nonprofits’ Online Presence
- Mentoring Young Professionals and Speakers
- Providing Chess Education to Rural Children
- Advocating for Child Welfare and Support
- Empowering Women Re-Entering the Workforce
- Supporting Youth Development Initiatives
- Promoting Inclusivity Through Sponsorships
- Donating to Local Charities
- Supporting Local Vocational Education Initiatives
19 Leaders Share How They’ve Used Their Personal Brand
Mentorship Initiatives for Women Entrepreneurs
I’ve used my brand to give back to the community through FemFounder’s mentorship initiatives for women entrepreneurs. I’ve dedicated time to offering free resources, hosting workshops, and providing one-on-one guidance to female business owners. By leveraging my experience in PR, branding, and media, I’ve been able to offer actionable advice and create content specifically designed to help women overcome common challenges in entrepreneurship.
For example, I’ve hosted virtual events focusing on how to gain media attention, build a personal brand, and navigate business ownership. This has helped dozens of women entrepreneurs grow their businesses and gain confidence in their ability to succeed. The impact has been advantageous—many of the women I’ve mentored have gone on to secure their first press features, raise funding, and successfully scale their businesses. Through these efforts, I’ve given back to the entrepreneurial community and created a ripple effect that empowers women to empower other women, creating a supportive network of business leaders.
Kristin Marquet
Founder & Creative Director, Marquet Media
Innovative Waste Management Programs
Environmental education transformed from concept to impact through the “Green Schools Mumbai” initiative, demonstrating the power of practical sustainability teaching. Partnering with 15 schools in underprivileged areas, we established innovative waste management programs focused on plastic-free alternatives. The introduction of “Eco-Innovation Labs” marked a pivotal shift in environmental education. Students mastered the creation of daily items using sustainable materials—crafting bamboo pencil stands and clay water filters. This practical approach ignited innovation, leading one student team to develop groundbreaking biodegradable packaging using banana leaves and natural adhesives.
Measurable impact emerged quickly: schools achieved a 73% reduction in plastic waste within six months. The program influenced 3,000 students to implement plastic-free practices at home, affecting 12,000 family members. The “Student Eco-Mentor” program emerged as the cornerstone of success. Trained students shared expertise with five neighboring schools, resulting in a 59% reduction in single-use plastic. This model of education reached 25,000 community members, creating lasting change through student-led environmental stewardship.
Chaitsi Ahuja
Founder & CEO, Brown Living
Supporting Moms with Free Workshops
One way I’ve used my personal brand to give back to my community is through my passion for supporting moms and providing resources, a cause that’s very personal to me. As a mom raising two kids under two and being far away from my own family, I know firsthand how overwhelming, challenging, and isolating those early years can feel. That’s why I created “The Mama Series,” an initiative where I open my studio doors to welcome new moms for free motherhood education and connection.
Through The Mama Series, I collaborate with local experts to provide workshops on topics like birth, breastfeeding, mental health, early childhood education, and more. These sessions are designed to not only educate but also create a space where moms can connect, share their experiences, and feel supported in their motherhood journey. It’s my way to create a local village that is so essential in motherhood.
This initiative has had a ripple effect beyond what I ever imagined. Not only has it become a meaningful resource for moms in our community, but it’s also created a network among the local experts I partnered with. These collaborations have led to professionals referring one another and finding new ways to support each other’s businesses, strengthening our community in even more ways.
For me, the impact of The Mama Series has been so fulfilling. Seeing moms walk away feeling empowered and less alone reminds me why I do what I do. It’s about creating a space where moms feel cared for and supported, just as I wish I’d had during my own early years of motherhood. It’s an extension of my commitment to celebrating and uplifting new families, and I’m so proud of the difference it’s made.
Renata Lutz
Entrepreneur/Photographer, The Portrait Mama
Promoting South Africa’s Outsourcing Industry
My personal brand is deeply tied to creating sustainable jobs and changing perceptions about South Africa’s outsourcing industry. One way I’ve used it to give back is by actively promoting South Africa as a destination for high-quality BPO services. By doing this, I’m helping to attract international investment, which directly translates to job creation—particularly for underserved communities.
I’m especially passionate about showcasing the people behind the work. By advocating for fair wages, growth-from-within opportunities, and professional environments, I’ve seen how lives can be transformed through meaningful employment. It’s not just about jobs; it’s about giving people the tools and opportunities to build real, lasting careers.
The impact is real. Seeing team members rise through the ranks, support their families, and grow professionally is incredibly rewarding—it reminds me why I do this work every day.
Ruben Moggee
CEO of Nutun International, Nutun
Sponsoring Healthcare and Education Initiatives
As a firm owner, I believe in giving back to the community that has supported us. Our rural location presents unique challenges, particularly when it comes to access to specialized healthcare. That’s why we’re proud to be a sponsor of Pilots for Patients, a fantastic charity that provides free air transport for those needing critical medical care unavailable locally. It’s a cause I’m deeply passionate about, knowing the difference it can make for families facing difficult situations.
Our commitment extends beyond healthcare. Through the Parker Alexander NELA Scholarship, we offer two $3,000 scholarships annually to deserving high school or college students in Northeast Louisiana. Education is the cornerstone of a thriving community, and we want to empower young people to pursue their dreams.
Supporting our local schools is equally important. We’ve been longtime sponsors of athletics programs at West Monroe High School, Franklin Parish High School, Sterlington High School, and Mangham High School. Our contributions have helped fund travel expenses, uniforms, equipment, and practice gear, ensuring these programs have the resources to thrive. We also sponsor the NELA Music Awards, a celebration of local talent, and even held a ticket giveaway to showcase our commitment to the arts.
The impact we’ve made is truly gratifying. Seeing students flourish thanks to scholarships, witnessing the pride young athletes take in their teams, and experiencing the joy of music at the NELA Music Awards—these are all testaments to the power of community investment. While we may be a law firm, we understand that a strong community is built on much more than just legal services. It’s about creating opportunities, fostering a sense of pride, and giving back in ways that truly make a difference.
Kevin Alexander
Founding Partner, Parker Alexander
Hosting Gluten-Free Cooking Workshops
One way I’ve used my personal brand to give back to the community is by hosting free cooking workshops for families navigating gluten-free diets. I started these workshops after hearing from readers who felt overwhelmed by the cost and effort of preparing gluten-free meals, especially when cooking for kids with dietary restrictions.
In these workshops, I shared budget-friendly recipes, tips for meal prep, and how to avoid cross-contamination in the kitchen. One memorable session involved teaching participants to make gluten-free bread from scratch. A mom shared how her child hadn’t enjoyed homemade bread in years, and seeing their joy as they baked together was incredibly fulfilling.
Beyond the workshops, I donate a portion of my blog’s affiliate earnings to local food banks, ensuring they stock gluten-free options for families in need. So far, the initiative has provided hundreds of gluten-free meals. This experience has deepened my connection with my community and reinforced the power of a personal brand to create real impact.
Bitty Louk
CEO, No Dash of Gluten
Supporting Education Through Scholarships
For me, building a business isn’t just about profits; it’s about making a positive impact. One cause that’s close to my heart is education. A few years ago, I noticed many talented kids in our community couldn’t afford college. That’s when I started the “Whit’s Future Leaders” program.
I remember meeting Sarah, a bright high school senior who dreamed of becoming an engineer but didn’t know how to fund her education. We provided her with a scholarship and paired her with a mentor from our team. Seeing her confidence grow and eventually get accepted into her dream university was incredibly rewarding.
Since launching the program, we’ve supported 50 students, helping them pursue higher education and providing guidance along the way. It’s amazing to watch these young people achieve their goals and give back to the community themselves.
Using my personal brand to support education has not only helped others but has also enriched our company culture. Our team feels motivated knowing we’re making a real difference. Education is the key to unlocking potential, and I’m proud to contribute to a brighter future for our community.
Mark Whitley
CEO, Whits Corporation
Promoting Skilled Trades to Students
While building a successful business has been incredibly rewarding, I felt a growing desire to make a tangible difference in my community. That’s why I decided to step beyond the boardroom and into the public arena by running for the Georgia Senate. It was a challenging but ultimately fulfilling experience that allowed me to connect with people on a deeper level and advocate for the issues I’m passionate about.
Though the campaign trail was demanding, it provided a platform to engage with citizens, listen to their concerns, and champion policies that promote economic growth, education, and technological innovation. Regardless of the election outcome, the experience deepened my commitment to public service and demonstrated the power of using one’s platform to effect positive change. It reinforced my belief that business leaders have a responsibility to contribute to the well-being of their communities and use their influence to create a better future for all.
Michael Gargiulo
Founder, CEO, VPN.com
Offering Digital Marketing Workshops
I think personal branding can be a powerful tool for giving back, and I’ve used mine to support local vocational education initiatives. I’m passionate about promoting skilled trades, especially CNC machining, to the next generation. I’ve partnered with local schools to offer workshops, share career insights, and provide hands-on training opportunities for students interested in manufacturing.
One initiative I’m especially proud of is our annual open house event. We invite students, teachers, and parents to tour our facility, meet our team, and learn about careers in machining. It’s been amazing to see young people get excited about the industry.
The impact has been real—we’ve had several students pursue apprenticeships and later join our team. I think investing in education not only supports the community but also ensures the industry’s future thrives with skilled and passionate professionals.
Jason Wong
General Manager, Rosedwell machinery ltd
Supporting Local Businesses and Causes
One way I have used my brand for the good of my community is by offering my knowledge in digital marketing to assist local nonprofits. I’ve done this by offering free workshops on social media strategy and online visibility, thus empowering these organizations to further their outreach and engagement. This enabled the organizations to make improvements in their marketing efforts and also helped create a sense of community among participants, establishing a network of mutual support.
The effects have been substantial. Many of the nonprofits have reported greater engagement on their platforms and, thus, more sign-ups to volunteer and contribute. Sharing the success stories of these organizations on my social media channels helped spread awareness of their missions and encouraged my network to engage with these causes.
This experience reinforced the importance of utilizing one’s brand for both professional advancement and community enrichment. The impact created a ripple effect in this manner, contributing to individual and organizational progress in the community.
Sheraz Ali
Founder & CEO, HARO Links Builder
Boosting Nonprofits’ Online Presence
One way I’ve used my personal brand to give back is by supporting causes close to me, small businesses, and people in my community. As a social media manager, I often share advice and insights about the industry on my personal platforms, though I try to keep a balance so it doesn’t feel like it takes over my life—or my feed.
What’s been amazing is how those posts have opened the door for people to reach out. They’ll ask for advice, resources, or just guidance on how to build their own skills or brands. I’ve been able to share what I’ve learned from following incredible thought leaders like Lia Haberman, Daniel Murray, and Elena Verna, as well as pass along notes from conferences I’ve attended. It’s such a good feeling to pay forward the help and knowledge others have shared with me. Watching people grow—whether it’s professionally, personally, or both—is a reminder of how powerful community can be when we all share what we know.
Supporting businesses and causes can also be simple. It doesn’t always take a big gesture. Sometimes it’s donating when you can, liking or sharing a post, or even just recommending them to a friend. Those small actions add up in ways we don’t always realize.
For me, building a personal brand isn’t just about what I can achieve—it’s about using that platform to lift others up. Even small efforts can create a ripple effect, and when we all give back, it makes our communities stronger and more connected.
Olivia Bell
Social Media Strategist, TripleTen
Mentoring Young Professionals and Speakers
Focusing my personal brand on supporting local communities has been a rewarding experience, especially working with nonprofit legal aid organizations. Often overlooked, visibility for these groups benefits immensely from strategic digital marketing. Offering pro bono SEO consultations, I guide them to effectively use local SEO techniques to boost their online presence. When these organizations rank higher in search results, they can connect more people in need with crucial legal resources. This impact further ensures individuals who might otherwise go unrepresented receive proper guidance, directly improving community access to justice.
Highlighting success stories helps build momentum and encourages others to engage. Sharing testimonials and case studies on platforms like podcasts or blogs not only elevates the organization’s profile but promotes the importance of legal aid work. Additionally, engaging audiences through storytelling helps demystify legal processes and showcases the broader impact of legal support, inspiring more community involvement and assistance.
Casey Meraz
Owner & Digital Marketing Expert, CaseyMeraz.com
Providing Chess Education to Rural Children
One way I’ve used my personal brand to give back is by mentoring young professionals and early-career speakers. Having benefited greatly from guidance throughout my own journey, I’m passionate about paying it forward by helping others navigate their unique challenges. Through workshops and one-on-one sessions, I’ve empowered individuals to embrace their authentic selves, refine their communication skills, and develop personal brands that truly reflect their values.
As a company, we also provide resources—such as website development, social media support, marketing materials, and access to our network—to young people in economically disadvantaged regions who lack financial resources. This initiative aims to level the playing field and give them the tools to succeed.
Additionally, I’ve used my platform to amplify causes close to my heart, including youth development and supporting individuals with invisible illnesses. Seeing those we’ve supported grow into their potential and go on to inspire others has been a deeply fulfilling experience—proof of the ripple effect that empowerment creates.
Maria Papacosta
Co-Founder, MSC Marketing Bureau
Advocating for Child Welfare and Support
I have always known that the game of chess can change the dynamics of people and it’s more so for underprivileged individuals. Also in one of the aspects of my personal brand I managed to help, I created Chess for Change where I give chess education and resources to children in rural India. Through cooperation with schools and community centers, it has become possible to open chess sections and conduct free competitions.
The impact has been significant: in addition to observing that children’s interest in electrical and digital engineering has grown, as well as the creation of specific skills among them, it has also been noted that thinking critically, being patient, and being able to solve problems are aspects of these children that have developed. This has developed into a channel through which underprivileged youths can achieve, gain confidence, as well as be rewarded hence providing an opportunity to compete for academic or job vacancies they could not otherwise compete for.
This way, I want to be an example for the future generations of leaders and change agents who grew up in my community through the medium of chess.
Gurpreet Singh
Founder & CEO, Indian Chess Company
Empowering Women Re-Entering the Workforce
As the leader of a family law firm, I’ve used my personal brand to advocate for child welfare and family support initiatives in our community. One way I’ve done this is by partnering with local shelters, such as the Union County Shelter and Kids First of the Carolinas, to provide free legal consultations to families in crisis. By leveraging my expertise and network, I’ve helped parents navigate custody issues and find resources to rebuild stability. The impact has been profound—not just in helping families find solutions but in raising awareness about the importance of accessible legal support for those in need.
Anna Blood
Founder and Managing Attorney, Blood Law PLLC
Supporting Youth Development Initiatives
I have dedicated significant time to empowering women who are re-entering the workforce after extended career gaps due to childcare or other personal commitments. I used my personal brand and experience to help these women rebuild their confidence, showcasing their unique skills and talents to potential employers. Connecting them with meaningful roles and watching them succeed has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my work.
Tazeen Raza
Executive Coach, Tazeen Raza
Promoting Inclusivity Through Sponsorships
As a civil trial lawyer, I’ve dedicated my career to fighting for the rights of injured individuals and holding negligent parties accountable. However, I believe that true success lies not only in achieving justice for my clients but also in giving back to the community that has supported me.
One way I’ve used my platform to make a positive impact is through the Burnetti Children’s Foundation. This non-profit organization is committed to supporting youth development in Florida. One of our most impactful initiatives is an annual Back to School Fair, where we distribute thousands of backpacks filled with essential school supplies to local students. By providing these resources, we aim to alleviate some of the financial burdens that families face and ensure that every child has the tools they need to succeed in school.
Doug Burnetti
President & CEO, Burnetti P.A.
Donating to Local Charities
Investing in community projects can have ripple effects more significant than most anticipate. Supporting Manchester Pride has been a significant way to use our brand for greater good. This wasn’t just about sponsorship; it was an opportunity to engage actively with our team and community in promoting inclusivity. Sponsoring such events does more than attach a name to a cause; it brings our team together with shared values and demonstrates our commitment to social issues, strengthening both internal culture and community ties.
One approach that might not be on everyone’s radar is redirecting part of your marketing budget toward community-driven initiatives. Instead of only spending on ads, include sponsorships or partnerships with local events or charities. This way, the brand gains visibility and positive associations, while directly supporting valuable causes. It’s an effective strategy for brands to become more than businesses, turning them into pivotal community partners. Always ensure that these actions align with your company’s values to create genuine connections and lasting impacts.
Andrew Franks
Co-Founder, Claimsline
Supporting Local Vocational Education Initiatives
I’m a giver to my core, and being a nurse has instilled in me the desire to help others. I’ve supported my community by donating to silent auctions and contributing to local charities. These efforts help fund important causes and create a ripple effect that benefits everyone around us.
My advice: use your personal brand to create opportunities for others. Whether it’s supporting local initiatives or giving back in meaningful ways, aligning your success with the success of your community fosters connection and shared growth.
Jessica Marren
Entrepreneur, Bella Bar Medspa
