03/17/2025
In December we welcomed a dynamic global cohort to The Berkeley Changemaker® Program—an immersive experience designed to help leaders drive meaningful change.
We caught up with two participants, Indy Purushothaman and Maria Alvarez , to hear about their biggest takeaways and how they’re applying what they learned.
💡 One word to describe the experience?
Maria: Inspiring
Indy: Intriguing
📌 Applying the learning in real time
Maria: “It’s been important for me to remember the importance of negotiation. Working in the non-profit sector, the term “negotiation” can have a negative connotation – but it’s not negative!”
Indy: “When providing feedback to colleagues, I’m looking to share a bit more nuance of my experience of the situation rather than being blunt about it. In addition, I am working to create a safe environment that encourages others to come to me, in order for me to understand what is important to them.
🔹 Advice for future changemakers?
Maria: “Learning can come in many ways: an experience, a reflection, an honest conversation, a setback, a book, a class. Cultivate an open mind and open heart.”
Indy: “Keep an open mind to new ideas, be able to release unwarranted ideas or stereotypes in order to learn and adapt new thinking and ideas.
Get insights from Indy and Maria→https://executive.berkeley.edu/thought-leadership/blog/advancing-change-good-all-are-you-changemaker