Building a Better World: How Community Drives Social Change

With passion and purpose, Brenda Darden Wilkerson, President & CEO of AnitaB.org, took centre-stage at PRAXIS11 – to deliver an inspiring keynote address titled “Power of Community Building and its Role in Making the World a Better Place”. Her message? The essence of community building lies in harnessing collective strength to drive social change and create a more inclusive, empowered world.

Wilkerson kicked off her address by sharing her personal philosophy: “My goal in work and life is to make life better.” She emphasised that one of the most effective strategies to achieve this is by building strong communities. “Community building is more than just assembling people,” she remarked. “It’s about creating a bond, a shared purpose, and a sense of belonging that transcends boundaries.” This sense of unity and connection, she explained, is what fuels positive social transformations and empowers individuals to contribute meaningfully.

‘Connection’ is Key: The Heart of Community Building

At the core of community building is connection – a concept Wilkerson believes to be a “collective bond and a fundamental aspect of our humanity.” Communities, she explained, provide an environment where people can collaborate, support each other, and work toward shared goals. Highlighting the power of unity, Wilkerson stated that when individuals come together, they form a collective force – capable of overcoming challenges and solving complex problems. “There is strength in unity,” she said passionately. “Communities foster resilience in adversity and encourage inclusivity, ensuring that everyone has a voice.”

Wilkerson shared inspiring examples of impactful communities, including the Self-Employed Women Association (SEWA) and the Society for Promoting Employment of Women (SPEW); and she noted how these organisations have uplifted thousands of women, creating a support system that empowers them to achieve economic independence.

Her own drive to make a difference was the creation of “Computer Science for All,” a groundbreaking initiative. Incidentally, Chicago was the first city to adopt Computer Science as a core subject in schools. “It’s about breaking barriers and creating opportunities for everyone,” she reflected, adding that this initiative continues to shape the future of education and technology.

Technology’s Role in Expanding Community Impact

Wilkerson then touched on the transformative role of technology in expanding the reach of communities. Digital platforms, she explained, have allowed communities to transcend geographic boundaries, enabling individuals to connect and collaborate globally. “Technology gives us the power to drive change across borders,” she said, noting how communities now collaborate across industries and countries to tackle complex issues and find innovative solutions.

She highlighted how AnitaB.org, the organisation she leads, has harnessed the power of digital platforms to build a global community for women in technology. AnitaB.org provides – resources, networking opportunities, and advocacy to empower women and help them thrive in their careers. “Community creates a collective force, and together we can achieve feats that transcend our individual capabilities,” Wilkerson emphasised.

Finding Purpose & Embracing Change

During a lively Q&A session with Ashish Babu, Chief Marketing & Communications Officer, Tata Consultancy Services, Wilkerson shared her journey of finding her purpose. Originally set to become a doctor, she changed course to pursue her passion for technology and education. “Sometimes, your purpose finds you,” she remarked.

The big elephant in the room is ‘AI’ said Ashish and enquired if she had any message here? “We must be vigilant to ensure technology serves humanity,” she advised.

Her closing advice to PR professionals was both inspiring and practical: “Live the life you are given, and some of it will add to your purpose.” With these words, she left the audience energised and ready – to build communities that create lasting, positive change.

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Shree Lahiri

Shree is the Senior Editor at Reputation Today and hopes to move from one focus area to another in the editions that will be released this year. Having worked in Corporate Communications teams, she has experience of advertising, public relations, investor and employee communications, after which she moved to the other side – journalism. She enjoys writing and believes the power of the pen is indeed mighty. Covering the entertainment beat and the media business, she has been involved in a wide range of activities that have thrown open storytelling opportunities.

She can be reached at: @shree_la on twitter