Founder Voices (Episode 9): Jasmine Cannon-Ikurusi – Building Equity Through Social Impact
In this inspiring episode of Founder Voices, I sit down with Jasmine Connon-Ikurusi—social entrepreneur, strategist, and global advocate for equity and inclusion.
As Founder & CEO of The Sapphire Employability and Wellbeing Academy, Jasmine has led initiatives that have supported over 12,000 people across the UK, Africa, and beyond—empowering young people, women, and marginalised communities through employability training, wellbeing programmes, and community development.
Her work bridges governance, diversity and inclusion, and international advocacy, with speaking engagements at UN summits, global conferences, and grassroots initiatives alike. Jasmine’s journey proves that leadership rooted in justice and compassion can transform systems and create opportunities on a global scale.
This conversation, recorded on Wednesday, 20 August 2025, explores Jasmine’s journey as a changemaker, the realities of building a social enterprise that spans continents, and her vision for a future where equity drives innovation and community growth.
🎧 Listen to the full episode to hear about:
How Jasmine built The Sapphire Employability and Wellbeing Academy into a multi-country social enterprise
The role of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in shaping sustainable communities
Lessons from working with governments, NGOs, and grassroots organisations across the globe
Strategies for securing funding and building partnerships that deliver real impact
Why empowering youth and women is central to driving systemic change
Whether you’re a social entrepreneur, policy leader, or advocate for change, Jasmine’s insights will leave you inspired to rethink what inclusive leadership can achieve.
A video version of the podcast:
Founder Voices: A Platform Amplifying Underserved Entrepreneurs
Sponsorship Opportunity | 2025–2026
About Founder Voices
Founder Voices is a podcast and storytelling platform powered by Cottage Factory, spotlighting grassroots founders, builders, and changemakers often overlooked by mainstream media.
Through honest, reflective conversations, we explore their journeys, challenges, and bold visions — helping early-stage ventures feel seen, supported, and inspired.
💬 “Real, relatable and necessary. This is the kind of content our ecosystem needs more of.” – Listener feedback
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Early-stage founders, social entrepreneurs, and creatives
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