Who We Are and What Drives Us
Today we face attacks on human rights, the unprecedented consequences of the climate crisis, and the rise of autocracies and illiberal ideologies that fracture the international order. These challenges are compounded by declining multilateral cooperation, weakened security governance, and discredited international accountability. This layered crisis creates an unpredictable environment that clouds our ability to see tomorrow’s opportunities.
Progress & Change Partnerships was founded to change this course of events—you & us, together:
Progress & Change Partnerships was founded to change this course of events—you & us, together:
- Through our Strategy Lab, we work alongside you to design (transition) strategies.
- Through our Action Lab, we develop impactful outreach and advocacy campaigns to amplify your influence.
- Through our Research Lab, we identify and track opportunities for you to further your mission.
Compassion & Humility
Our work is guided by compassion and humility. We hold ourselves accountable to these values in everything we do. Beyond living them, we seek to nurture compassionate communities through our causes and partners. These values strengthen us, inspire new solutions, and help drive the progress we pursue.
Ambition & Sensibility
Founded in 2023, Progress & Change Partnerships was created to reshape solutions to today’s crises by supporting non-profits, governmental and international institutions, and — when relevant — the private sector. Our ambition pushes us to meet high standards and achieve real impact. Our sensibility ensures we pursue change that is sustainable and improves lives.
Collaboration & Amplification
Collaboration is at the heart of our work. With our experience and expertise, we amplify the efforts of our partners and stand with them, as committed as they are to their cause. Everything we do is carefully tailored to a shared journey — you & us, together.
A Conversation with our President
In this compelling podcast conversation, Dave Schoof speaks with Florian Irminger about his journey from high-visibility political leadership to behind-the-scenes human rights advocacy, and what he calls the "Global Realignment" we're all navigating. This episode explores how leaders can pivot from old ways of working to meet unprecedented challenges, why admitting "I don't know" is becoming essential leadership, and how human rights work is at the leading edge of what we all need to learn to thrive in this new world.
Dave speaks to Florian's inspiration by something Robert F. Kennedy said in 1964 during the height of the Civil Rights Movement: “Progress is the nice word we like to use, but change is its motivator and change has its enemies.” These words speak to our current moment that comfortable approaches aren't enough when the foundations themselves are shifting.
Key Takeaways
Key Takeaways
- The Power of the Pivot: Sometimes stepping back from visibility creates more authentic impact
- Admitting "I Don't Know": In times of uncertainty, vulnerability becomes a leadership strength
- From Answers to Questions: Moving from classical music to jazz - improvising and listening rather than following old scripts
- The Global Realignment: We're all navigating similar challenges across different sectors
- Personal Navigation: Finding practices (like saxophone for breathing, classic literature for perspective) to maintain balance in chaos
- Future Hope: Humanity has overcome difficult moments before and is equipped to do so again
