In this powerful episode, Abi Mellor sits down with Eleanor Harrison, CEO of the Fairtrade Foundation, who shares her remarkable journey from a childhood shaped by justice and community activism to leading one of the UK's most trusted ethical brands.
Eleanor reveals how early experiences of her mother's fearless advocacy instilled values that would guide her through diverse roles across the sector from international development, to social impact - ultimately landing her "dream job" at 45.
Eleanor shares how early volunteering shaped her worldview and skillset and that taking a variety of roles allowed her to build a leadership ‘toolbox’ over time. She reflects on why finding a role where you can truly thrive is as much about the organisation being right for you, as you being right for it.
Abi and her guest explore a formative experience that may have sparked Eleanor’s deep belief in the importance of fairness and standing up for what’s right. She offers practical reflections on creating a culture where everyone can flourish.
Eleanor makes a compelling case for why business-as-usual for the international food system simply isn’t good enough, and challenges all of us to think differently about fairness, sustainability, and the true cost of what we consume.
She speaks about what keeps her glass not just half full, but brimming - even in the face of global inequality - and how leading with purpose isn’t just a choice but something that’s in her DNA.
Brain food from this episode:
The enduring power of cultural anthropologist Margaret Mead’s words. For example: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
The book recommended in this episode: How to Build a Feminist Son by Sonora Jha -on raising boys with empathy, equity, and emotional intelligence.
Something to chew on: Less than 5% of the 2 or 3 pence you spend on a teabag reaches the farmer - and much of the world’s tea is sold below the cost of production.
About the Fairtrade Foundation
The Fairtrade Foundation is part of a global Fairtrade system. It works to change the terms of trade through its certification, campaigns, policy work, and business partnerships. This includes working to secure fairer prices, safer working conditions, and more power in the hands of farmers and workers.
Find out more about the charity:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FairtradeFoundation/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fairtradeuk/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-fairtrade-foundation
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Fairtradefoundation
Enjoyed this conversation?
Subscribe to Leading Lights to catch the next episode, and please consider rating and reviewing to help others find the podcast.
Are you a Head of Brand, Marketing or Creative at a charity? Join the MOREVER Meetup – an informal space to share ideas and connect with other women doing creative work in the charity sector.
Leading Lights is brought to you by MOREVER – an independent creative agency for charities and changemakers.www.morever.co.uk
