Why the World Needs the Next Generation of Social Impact Leaders

By 2050, the world will look very different depending on the choices young people make today. Headlines warn us about climate collapse, inequality, political instability and AI disruption. It is easy to feel overwhelmed.

But here is the truth: you can do something about it. Your career is the single most powerful lever you have to change the future. If more graduates chose social impact careers, the world would be a radically better place.

At 180 Degrees Consulting, our mission is to develop the next generation of social impact leaders. We have already helped over 50,000 students worldwide turn ambition into action through hands-on projects, global networks and structured career pathways.

‍Rethinking careers

‍Too many people end up in jobs that feel meaningless. This is not only an economic problem but also a crisis of meaning. Doing good feels good, and research proves it.

The question to ask is not “What is my passion?” but “How can I contribute most?” Sometimes that means choosing a career path that others might overlook, but one where your impact is far greater than the next person who could fill the role.

Social impact is not one narrow path. Working in social impact does not mean only joining an NGO.

There are many routes:

• Shaping policy in government or international institutions.

• Driving change from within corporations through sustainability and responsibility.                                                    

• Building a career in consulting focused on social impact and development.              

• Launching ventures as a social entrepreneur.                                                            

• Mobilising communities through advocacy and campaigns.                                   

• Volunteering alongside another career.

What matters most is not the lane you choose but how you use your skills to make a difference. That means challenging yourself to look beyond the obvious options that everyone around you might be chasing. Consider how to maximise your value over a “replacement player”. How much more impact could you have in one role compared to the next person who might do it? That is where your biggest contribution lies.

What makes a social impact leader?

‍From our work with students around the world, we see six ingredients that matter:

1. Experience with NGOs, charities and social enterprises
2. Skills in leadership, analysis and communication
3. Advice from mentors who have walked the path
4. Opportunities to access impactful roles
5. A strong global network of peers
6. Inspiration that sustains long-term commitment

In 2024, 180DC students delivered over 1 million hours of consulting for socially conscious organisations while building these exact skills. According to our latest impact report, 80 percent of participants finish our projects more confident, better equipped and more motivated to pursue careers with purpose.

The power of community

‍No one can solve global challenges alone. You need people who inspire you, challenge your ideas and remind you that you are not alone. That is what the 180DC community provides. With more than 10,000 students and alumni across 35 countries, we are proof that the next generation is already rising to the challenge. From London to New Delhi, Sydney to São Paulo, students are using their skills to make the world better.

You can get involved today:

1. Join a 180DC branch - Get hands-on consulting experience supporting charities and social enterprises.
2. Become a mentor - If you are an alumnus or professional, share your knowledge with the next wave of changemakers.
3. Apply to the Global Leadership Team (GLT) - Shape 180DC’s work around the world and help steer the growth of a global community of impact leaders.

The leaders of your generation will decide whether this century becomes a story of decline or renewal. At 180DC, we believe in your potential and we have built the platform to help you unlock it. Join us, and you will gain the skills, experience and community to turn ambition into impact. The future is being written now. The world is waiting for the next generation of leaders to step forward.

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If you do not step up, who will?

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Chris Garner,

CEO, 180 Degrees Consulting