
Rise Up holds its immersive Leadership and Advocacy Accelerator training programs in multiple countries throughout the year. At our most recent Accelerator in California, we were fortunate to be joined by our friend and funding partner Olivia Scott, Corporate Responsibility Manager, Cummins Powers Women at Cummins Inc. We love when partners join us for these special Rise Up experiences to learn more about us and our unique programming and meet visionary Rise Up Leaders. We asked Olivia what she learned during the California Accelerator and what she’ll carry forward with her as she works to strengthen gender equity in her role at Cummins.*
You joined Rise Up’s latest Leadership and Advocacy Accelerator in California. What were you most surprised to learn as part of the weeklong training?
Olivia: It was delightful to learn how much the members of the cohort had in common regarding approaches to life and community, despite having a diversity of backgrounds, experiences and areas of philanthropic interest. There was an undeniable foundation of caring and respect for humanity and a desire for growth and improvement – of oneself and community – in the group. This seeded the experience throughout and was evident in all that was accomplished, be it in discovering more about your leadership style, learning how to develop successful advocacy strategies, or in having a meal together.
Rise Up works to improve gender equity, education, health, and economic opportunity. What was your most important takeaway when it comes to advancing gender equity in the U.S. and around the world?
Olivia: My most important takeaway is that no matter where we are in the world and though cultures and needs may be different, the issue and impacts of gender inequity are very similar. Whether you’re in California or in India, the roles of girls and women are varied and of critical importance to the advancement of communities. Supporting these efforts are pivotal to the collective advancement of us all, and everyone plays a part. It can’t just be the marginalized driving this work, as true change and progress can only be achieved collectively.
In what ways do you think advocacy – a core component of Rise Up’s model – is essential for creating long-term change?
Olivia: Advocacy requires action in the immediate/present moment but is a long-term strategy of effecting change due to the time it takes for change to actually happen and “stick.” Influencing decision-makers is an art and having the skills, time and presence to do so is essential to establishing and cultivating the relationships needed to change laws and influence policies in favor of your desired goals. Depending on the structures you’re working within, be it governments, corporations, etc., being able to advocate for issues effectively allows you to be heard and to shape the public debate.
You took a week out of your busy work and personal life to attend the Rise Up training. Why do you think it’s important for funders to have this deep level of understanding about the work they support?
Olivia: I have a bird’s-eye view of the work supported as a global funder, which is often my perspective when evaluating partners, their programs and impact. Big picture. However, as true subject matter experts, we rely on our partners to be the eyes, ears and hands in our global communities to accomplish the considerable work of advancing gender equity. When offered this opportunity, I shared that I wanted the full immersive experience, if it was possible. I wanted to come in as an individual dedicated to driving impactful change in gender equity and participate alongside the amazing individuals selected for this training program. I’m so glad I did. As a participant and not just an observer, I became a collaborator, encourager, student, supporter, advisor and ultimately a friend to the members of this cohort. I learned about their families, daily lives, challenges, triumphs and aspirations. I learned their WHY and am forever changed because of it. Through this experience, I transitioned from having a big picture perspective to being linked in arms along a collective journey to create a better world and future and grew from being like-minded to aligned in heart.
*Responses have been edited for length.