Doers Defined Podcast

How do you find yourself at the center of not one, but two of the most iconic IPOs in recent history — Uber and the biggest global tech listing of 2024, Talabat? You lead with vision, build culture from the ground up, and never lose sight of the people who make it all possible.In this episode of Doers Defined, I sit down with Susanne Elias-Stulemeijer — a powerhouse in global communications, leadership, and innovation.Susanne has been at the helm of some of the world’s most influential tech companies — from her trailblazing role as Uber’s first EMEA Comms Lead, to senior leadership at Delivery Hero, and most recently as VP of Communications, Public Affairs & Sustainability at talabat. There, she built high-performing teams across the Middle East and North Africa and played a pivotal role in the company’s record-breaking IPO - the biggest global tech IPO of 2024.Born in the Netherlands, raised across Algeria and India, and now based in Dubai, Susanne brings a truly global lens to her work. She’s a builder, a culture shaper, and a passionate advocate for people-first leadership — all while raising three children and redefining what it means to lead with authenticity.This conversation is a deep dive into leading through change, building teams that thrive, and communicating with clarity in moments that matter. It’s a masterclass in bold, human-centered leadership — and a powerful reminder that success starts with how you show up for your people.

In her own words, Carol Koech is a dreamer, an executor, and an enabler—and in this deeply inspiring episode, she lives up to every one of those titles.Born in rural Kenya without access to electricity, Carol’s childhood was marked by challenges that could have easily defined her limits. Instead, they ignited a fire within her. Today, she’s dedicating her life to solving the very problem she once lived—energy access. Her rise to top executive roles at global giants like Schneider Electric, GE, and Unilever is not just a corporate success story—it’s a beacon for anyone who has ever wondered if their beginning could define their end.We dive into the pivotal moments that shaped Carol’s journey:•Her childhood without power and how it fuels her mission today•What it means to “light possibility” for children just like her•How she identifies when an opportunity is truly meant for her•The power of taking bold, uncomfortable risks—and why resilience often grows from adversity•How she’s learned to fly the plane while fixing it•Her personal encounters with self-doubt and imposter syndrome—and how she redefines them as growth momentsWe also explore the future: how the AI revolution is reshaping electrification in Africa, why energy access must be seen as a tool of productivity, and what she looks for when identifying standout talent.This episode is a reason to believe—that where you start doesn’t limit where you can go. That the very things we wish hadn’t happened might just be the fuel for our greatness.Tune in, and be reminded that your story, no matter how it starts, can light the way forward.

How often do you think about innovation in government services?In this powerful episode on Doers Defined, we sit down with Alexia Hefti — a Swiss-Canadian lawyer, digital governance pioneer, and global strategist based in the UAE — who is radically reimagining how governments serve people in the 21st century.From growing up in Hong Kong to advising heads of state across Africa, the Middle East, and the Caribbean, Alexia’s journey is anything but typical. She co-founded Deloitte Canada’s Blockchain Tax practice, served on the board of a Nasdaq-listed blockchain firm, and now leads eGovern, a bold venture using AI and blockchain to bring speed, transparency, and trust to government services.As the Special Representative of the Government of Bermuda, Alexia is also building economic bridges and shaping diplomatic alliances in some of the most dynamic regions of the world.In this episode, Alexia shares the formative experiences that shaped her global outlook, the leadership lessons she’s learned navigating complex political and economic landscapes, and her bold vision for the future of governance in emerging markets.This isn’t just a conversation about technology — it’s about power, purpose, and the people driving change behind the scenes.If you're curious about how innovation can unlock opportunity, strengthen diplomacy, and transform the way we govern — this is the episode for you.

In this unmissable episode of Doers Defined, we sit down with Wanjira Mathai—a global sustainability powerhouse, TIME 100 honoree, and Managing Director for Africa and Global Partnerships at WRI.Wanjira opens up about growing up with the legend—her mother, Nobel Laureate Wangari Maathai—and whether she felt pressure to carry on the legacy or forge her own path. She shares a raw and deeply personal take on leadership, influence, and the responsibility that comes with being a voice for change.We dive deep into Africa’s most urgent environmental challenges—from climate change and land degradation to the delicate balance between economic growth and conservation. Wanjira challenges us to ask: Are African governments and the private sector doing enough? Or are they dragging their feet?She reveals why women and youth are the game-changers in sustainability, the power of grassroots movements, and why Africa must lead its own climate solutions rather than be dictated to by international organizations.In a powerful close, Wanjira leaves us with a call to action—urging young Africans to rise, innovate, and become the next generation of climate leaders. She reminds us of her mother’s iconic words:“It’s the little things that citizens do that will make the difference.”This episode is a masterclass in leadership, resilience, and the fight for a sustainable future. 🌍

In this episode of the Doers Defined Podcast, we sit down with Perry Boyle, an extraordinary leader whose journey spans decades of influence in finance, philanthropy, and social impact. A financial powerhouse who personally raised $3 billion to launch the U.S. hedge fund Point72, working alongside the legendary Steve Cohen, owner of the New York Mets. Perry has left a remarkable legacy in investment banking, hedge funds, and as the founder of MITS Capital, an international defense venture capital firm and accelerator.But Perry’s story is about more than just financial success. As Chairman of The BOMA Project for six years, Perry has helped women, youth, and displaced persons in Africa’s drylands escape extreme poverty and adapt to climate challenges. His work embodies the belief that purpose and profit can coexist.In our candid conversation, we explore:✅ Resilience and Independence: How Perry’s unusual upbringing taught him responsibility and independence from an early age.✅ Fundraising Mastery: Insights into how Perry raised billions of dollars in capital and the traits that make him a fundraising powerhouse.✅ Navigating Ethical Challenges: Lessons learned during his time at SAC Capital and insights on leading with integrity.✅ Empowerment in Africa: Perry’s work with The BOMA Project and what it has taught him about sustainable development and poverty alleviation.✅ Shaping the Future: The inspiration behind MITS Capital and its mission to connect NATO and U.S. with Ukraine’s defense innovations.It was truly an honor to host one of the smartest minds and most inspiring leaders.🎧 Tune in to hear Perry’s reflections on leadership, ethics, and legacy, and learn how he’s redefining success by leaving a lasting impact.#DoersDefined #PerryBoyle #Leadership #SocialImpact #Podcast

In this episode of Doers Defined, we’re joined by Rosanne Whalley, CEO of AHL Ventures and a trailblazer in African private equity and venture capital. With over 15 years of experience, Rosanne shares her journey leading one of Africa’s most impactful family offices, driving investments that tackle social and environmental challenges at scale. The conversation delves into the intricacies of family office management, showcasing how AHL Ventures, founded by the Adolf H. Lundin Charitable Foundation, has evolved into an evergreen fund with over USD $100 million in assets under management. 🌍 Highlights from the conversation: ✅ Demystifying family offices—what they are and their role in Africa’s investment landscape. ✅ How Rosanne aligns financial goals with meaningful impact. ✅ The investment philosophies that power AHL Ventures evergreen fund. ✅ Emerging trends shaping the future of family office management. ✅ Actionable insights for making family office models accessible to more Africans. Whether you’re curious about the dynamics of family offices or seeking inspiration to drive impactful investments, this episode is packed with wisdom from one of Africa’s foremost leaders in sustainable finance. 🎙️Tune in to learn how Rosanne is transforming lives and industries across Africa. 🔗 Connect with Rosanne Whalley LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rosanne-whalley-57067833/ AHL Ventures: https://www.ahlventurepartners.com

In this episode, we sit with Kanini Mutooni, a powerhouse in the world of venture philanthropy and impact investing. As Regional Managing Director, Africa, at Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation, Kanini has been a driving force behind empowering early-stage entrepreneurs creating meaningful global impact.With leadership roles spanning organizations like Vodacom Tanzania, FSD Africa, Mastercard Foundation Growth Fund, Global Innovation Fund, Toniic and more, Kanini brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective on Africa’s immense investment potential.In this episode, Kanini dives into:✅ The art of fundraising in challenging environments.✅ What sets Africa apart as an investment destination.✅ Common misconceptions international investors have about the continent.✅ How to balance financial returns with social impact.✅ Insider advice for new investors exploring Africa.🎙️ Tune in for invaluable lessons, bold ideas, and practical tips from one of Africa’s leading voices in investment. This is the episode that could redefine how you see opportunity in Africa!🔗Connect with Kanini MutooniLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaninimutooni/#DoersDefined #ImpactInvesting #KaniniMutooni #Podcast #SocialImpact

In this episode, we sit down with Romain Diaz, founder and general partner at Satgana, a venture capital firm dedicated to sustainable and climate-driven innovation. Romain discusses Satgana's mission to show that investing in the planet can deliver both financial and social gains. Building Satgana’s €8 million fund was a challenging journey that required a strong team and unwavering commitment, but Romain emphasizes the importance of trust and integrity, reflecting his philosophy: “Do what you say, say what you do.”Romain shares insights into the specific challenges faced by African founders, Satgana’s unique approach to sourcing investments, and the essential qualities he looks for in resilient founders. He highlights the need for startups to focus on customer impact over VC attention, as well as the importance of creating clearer exit pathways in Africa’s market. For Romain, climate tech is not only about reducing carbon but also preserving biodiversity, minimizing plastic waste, and enabling climate adaptation. Through Satgana, he aims to drive change with a founder-first approach that balances competition with kindness—proving that a sustainable future is both possible and profitable.Connect more with Romain DiazLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/romaindiaz/Satgana: https://www.satgana.com#doersdefined #emergingmarkets #podcast #socialimpact #satgana

Jo Opot is a visionary capital allocator and founding director of Gather Ventures, a gender and climate smart fund focused on investing in ventures that both create climate resilience and drive asset creation for women and girls in Africa. She is dedicated to reshaping the landscape of investment by empowering women and fostering gender equity in business. With a steadfast commitment to uplifting female entrepreneurs, Jo channels her expertise and resources into ventures that elevate women's voices, promote diversity, and drive inclusive growth. She is passionate about breaking down the barriers women face in accessing capital, believing that diverse leadership is key to driving innovation and lasting success. Her work not only creates opportunities but also serves as an inspiring example of how strategic investments can ignite meaningful social change.In this episode of the Doers Defined Podcast, Elsie Mbugua speaks with Jo Opot on;·        the privilege of running a venture fund committed to gender and climate ·        the role of impact investing in emerging market ecosystems·        issues that make it difficult for women to access capital ·        metrics she uses to determine investability·        where she looks for founders to invest inListen to the full episode and tap into the wisdom of a female capital allocator with a unique lens and understanding of African cultural contexts that play a role in capital allocation. #BeInspiredConnect with Jo OpotLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jo-opot/Gather Ventures: https://www.gatherventures.org/team

In this episode, Ken Njoroge, the dynamic force behind Cellulant and founder of boutique investment firm PANI, unlocks the secrets of his success in the tech world. His brainchild, Cellulant, has evolved into a global payments powerhouse, reshaping digital transactions across 35 countries in Africa. In this episode of the Doers Defined Podcast, Elsie Mbugua speaks with Ken about his inspiring journey as an entrepreneur, the critical elements of success in fundraising, his style of leadership in moments of crisis, his advice to budding entrepreneurs looking to build a sustainable and leading business in Africa and the importance of African capital to catalyze the African tech ecosystem.Listen to the full episode and tap into the wisdom of an entrepreneur who has been there, done it and succeeded against all odds. Ken is now inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs. #BeInspiredConnect with Ken Njoroge: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ken-njoroge-48bb46/