How Jennifer Stojkovic Of Vegan Women Summit Is Helping to Promote Sustainability and Climate Justice
An Interview With Monica Sanders
Frame sustainability and climate justice as problems with solutions: Instead of presenting climate information in a negative and dualistic manner, it’s more effective to focus on the solutions and actionable steps that individuals and communities can take. By highlighting the potential for problem-solving, we can generate greater interest and engagement in sustainability and climate justice initiatives.
According to the University of Colorado, “Those who are most affected and have the fewest resources to adapt to climate change are also the least responsible for the greenhouse gas emissions — both globally and within the United States.” Promoting climate justice is an incredibly important environmental responsibility that is slowly becoming more and more recognized. In this interview series, we are talking to leaders who are helping to promote sustainability and climate justice. As part of this series, we had the pleasure of interviewing Jennifer Stojkovic.
Jennifer Stojkovic is a food-tech leader, founder of Vegan Women Summit (VWS), and author of The Future of Food is Female. In 2020, Jennifer founded Vegan Women Summit (VWS), a global media and events platform focused on empowering women to build a kinder, more sustainable world. In addition to VWS, Jennifer is an investor, advisor, and board member of numerous startups, including Lighter and MeliBio.
Thank you so much for doing this with us! Before we dig in, our readers would like to get to know you a bit. Can you tell us a bit about how you grew up?
I grew up in a quaint farming town with a population of 2000, located two hours north of Toronto. It was a unique upbringing for me, as my father, who is blind, played the role of a stay-at-home dad. Growing up with a disabled parent provided me with valuable life experiences and a unique perspective towards overcoming obstacles. Neither of my parents had a formal education beyond the 10th grade, making me the first in my family to graduate from college. Surrounded by vast fields and farms, I was immersed in a rural lifestyle that seemed far removed from the trajectory of my eventual career in the food system.
At the age of 17, I was fortunate enough to receive a national scholarship, which led me to the bustling metropolis of Toronto, where I pursued a business law degree. In my final year of college, I made the bold decision to transfer to the United States. As I entered my mid-20s, I relocated to Silicon Valley and embarked on a tech career, working for some of the world’s largest tech giants, including Google, Meta/Facebook, Airbnb, and Uber. During this time, I had the privilege of working under the guidance of Ron Conway, often referred to as the Godfather of Silicon Valley, as he founded SV Angel. It was during my tenure in the tech industry that I discovered the allure and immense potential of food tech, an emerging field that captured my interest and excitement.
Around 2018, I began devoting a significant portion of my time to exploring the future of food and food technology. This newfound passion aligned perfectly with my personal commitment to eliminating animals from the food system, as I had been living a vegan lifestyle for nearly a decade. In 2020, I established the Vegan Women Summit, a groundbreaking global organization that empowers women to shape a more compassionate and sustainable world. Starting with a modest group of 250 women, we have grown exponentially and now boast a community of over 60,000 professional women across six continents. Through our conferences, pitch competitions, reports, and data, we actively contribute to the advancement of the future of food.
In addition to my work with the Vegan Women Summit, I authored “The Future of Food is Female,” a pioneering book that sheds light on the remarkable contributions of women in transforming the food system. As a testament to my commitment, I also established my own venture capital fund called Joyful Ventures, which focuses on fostering a more sustainable food system.
By combining my personal experiences, professional journey, and dedication to empowering women and driving positive change in the food industry, I am determined to create a future where kindness, sustainability, and innovation intersect harmoniously.
Everyone has a cataclysmic moment or marker in their life which propels them to take certain actions, a “why”. What is your why?
At the age of 23, my life was forever altered by a profound act of gun violence. Tragically, my husband’s best friend, who also served as our best man, was taken from us in a senseless act. The subsequent murder trial forced us to confront unimaginable pain and heartache. Yet, amidst the turmoil, we faced a pivotal choice: would we allow this tragedy to consume us, or could we find a path towards growth and healing? Ultimately, we made the extraordinary decision to extend forgiveness to the perpetrator, visiting them in prison and embracing compassion over vengeance. This transformative experience reshaped our identities and profoundly influenced our perspective on making a positive impact in the world. We were determined to be catalysts for compassion and sought a way to embody this mission in our daily lives. For me, the most apparent avenue was found in the simple act we engage in three times a day — our choices around food.
You are currently leading an organization that is making a difference for our planet. Can you tell us a bit about what you and your organization are trying to change?
Our organization is driven by the goal of empowering and mobilizing the 51% of women worldwide to play an active role in shaping a more sustainable and equitable food system. We strive to ignite a collective transformation by encouraging women to become informed consumers, pursue careers in the industry, invest in food-related ventures, or even establish their own companies. By inspiring women to reimagine their relationship with food, we recognize their pivotal role as change agents. Notably, women account for 93% of consumer food purchases, making them the influential gatekeepers to the grocery carts of our global community. Embracing a woman-first approach is essential if we seek to revolutionize the food system and cultivate a future that embodies kindness, sustainability, and social justice.
Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you began leading your company or organization?
One of the most remarkable moments on this journey occurred last year when I had the privilege of engaging with presidential nominees and hosting a press conference at the United Nations during COP 27. This unexpected opportunity provided a platform to emphasize the significance of empowering women in the food system. It was an extraordinary instance where our work was showcased on a global scale, capturing the attention of some of the world’s most influential and impactful changemakers. This experience exceeded any expectations I had, and it demonstrated the profound impact our organization can have on a larger stage.
None of us can be successful without some help along the way. Did you have mentors or cheerleaders who helped you to succeed? Can you tell us a story about their influence?
I have been incredibly fortunate to have a network of mentors and cheerleaders who have played a vital role in my journey towards success. I am particularly grateful for the guidance and support I received from a series of remarkable women who served as my bosses early in my career. Their mentorship and leadership have been instrumental in shaping the leader I have become today. In fact, I dedicated my first book to several of them, acknowledging the profound impact they had on my professional growth.
One individual who stands out is Deborah Bowie, my very first boss. Deborah’s influence on my life extends far beyond the workplace. During a challenging period when I was personally navigating a murder trial, Deborah not only mentored me but also provided a nurturing environment that helped me endure and persevere. What made her mentorship particularly powerful was that she, too, had gone through a similar experience. Having someone by my side who understood the unique difficulties I was facing was an immense source of strength and motivation during that time.
The personal connection we shared and the invaluable support she offered were pivotal in enabling me to overcome the obstacles that stood in my path. Deborah’s mentorship went beyond professional guidance; it encompassed empathy, resilience, and an unwavering belief in my potential. Her influence has been transformative, and I credit her as a key figure in my ability to navigate challenges and strive for success.
Thank you for that. Let’s now move to the central part of our discussion. Let’s start with a basic definition of terms so that everyone is on the same page. What does climate justice mean to you? How do we operationalize it?
To me, climate justice entails creating a sustainable and equitable future that encompasses all regions of the world. It means recognizing and addressing the differing economic development levels and vulnerabilities of various nations in the face of climate change. Our focus should extend beyond the developed world and prioritize enabling sustainable futures for developing nations. Tangible solutions are crucial in ensuring that future generations can thrive in a sustainable world.
One significant aspect to operationalize climate justice is through addressing the environmental impact of our food systems. It’s essential to recognize that approximately 20% of global greenhouse gas emissions stem from the production of meat, dairy, and eggs. These agricultural practices, particularly livestock farming, significantly contribute to human-created methane emissions, with cattle and sheep being major sources. Thus, if we seek to implement the fastest and most effective climate solutions, we must examine our food choices.
According to a recent report by the Boston Consulting Group, investing in plant-based protein emerges as the most impactful climate solution in reducing CO2 emissions. It surpasses the environmental benefits of electric vehicles (EVs) by a factor of 11, green building by four times, and decarbonizing cement by three times. As developing regions progress towards adopting Western dietary patterns, as observed in other parts of the world during economic development, we must ensure the availability of sustainable food solutions. Failing to do so risks exacerbating the existing climate crisis. It’s imperative to innovate away from our reliance on industrialized animal agriculture in developed countries and make these sustainable solutions accessible to developing nations. Moreover, we must consider the vulnerabilities of those who are most affected by these challenges.
Operationalizing climate justice necessitates a comprehensive approach that addresses socioeconomic disparities, promotes sustainable food systems, and fosters global collaboration. By actively addressing the climate impact of our food choices and striving for equitable solutions, we can pave the way towards a more just and sustainable world for all.
Science is telling us that we have 7–10 years to make critical decisions about climate change. What are three things you or your organization are doing to help?
My organization is actively involved in three key initiatives to address climate change within the given time frame:
- Investing in Future Food Solutions: We recognize that future food solutions are a critical climate investment. As such, we are investing resources and supporting innovative ventures that focus on sustainable and environmentally friendly food technologies. By channeling efforts into these solutions, we aim to accelerate the transition to a more sustainable and resilient food system.
- Educating and Empowering: We are committed to educating and empowering millions of individuals about climate solutions through various channels. Our focus is on raising awareness about the impact of food choices on climate change and providing accessible data and information to help people make informed decisions. By equipping individuals with knowledge and empowering them to make sustainable choices, we believe in creating a collective impact that contributes to positive change.
- Creating a Talent Pipeline: The future economy will witness a significant transformation with the rise of green jobs, particularly in sectors related to sustainability and food technology. To ensure a smooth transition and capitalize on these emerging opportunities, our organization is dedicated to creating a talent pipeline. We actively support initiatives that facilitate upskilling and training programs, preparing individuals to seize these future job prospects. By nurturing a skilled workforce, we strive to contribute to the growth of a sustainable economy, both in the United States and globally.
Through these three strategic actions, we are actively working towards addressing climate change and making tangible progress within the limited timeframe provided by scientific evidence.
Are there three things the community, society, or politicians can do to help you in your mission?
There are three key ways in which the community, society, and politicians can contribute to our mission:
- Political Support: Politicians have a crucial role in driving change. They can work towards passing policies that incentivize and support the transition away from traditional animal agriculture. By implementing measures that provide pathways for farmers trapped in unprofitable systems, such as industrialized animal agriculture, governments can help facilitate a shift towards sustainable farming practices and innovative alternatives like plant-based protein. It’s essential for policymakers to prioritize the well-being of farmers and create a supportive environment for them to embrace more sustainable practices.
- Individual Responsibility: Community members and society as a whole play a vital role by making conscious choices that benefit the planet. Each individual can take responsibility for their actions and make sustainable choices in their everyday lives, particularly regarding their dietary and consumer habits. By opting for more environmentally friendly alternatives and supporting sustainable products, individuals can collectively contribute to positive change. Encouraging and promoting sustainable choices within communities will have a profound impact on our mission.
- Education and Empowering the Youth: It is crucial to prioritize educating the younger generation about emerging industries and green job opportunities. By incorporating comprehensive information about the future of food and sustainable practices into the education system, we can inspire and empower students to become agents of change. Ensuring that young individuals are aware of the potential of sustainable food systems and the career opportunities they offer will drive innovation and create a talent pool ready to tackle the challenges of the future.
By garnering political support, fostering individual responsibility, and investing in youth education, we can create a collaborative and empowered society that actively contributes to building a more sustainable future for our planet.
How would you articulate how a business can become more profitable by being more sustainable and more environmentally conscious? Can you share a story or example?
When it comes to how a business can become more profitable by being more sustainable and environmentally conscious, a prime example lies in examining the company’s food buying program. By making conscious choices in food purchasing, businesses can have a significant impact on their profitability and environmental footprint.
One illustrative story is LinkedIn’s initiative to create a default vegan cafeteria at their San Francisco office. By offering a plant-based option as the default choice for employees, they witnessed a remarkable shift in food preferences, with the majority of employees opting for plant-based meals. This simple change in food offerings resulted in a substantial reduction in carbon emissions, aligning with their environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals. LinkedIn’s experience showcases how repositioning food choices and prioritizing plant-based options can yield positive outcomes for both the planet and the company’s bottom line.
Another notable example is the mayor of New York City’s commitment to changing the city’s purchasing program to prioritize plant-based options. By incorporating sustainable food choices into their procurement strategy, the city aims to reduce its climate impact and contribute to a more sustainable future.
In summary, businesses can enhance profitability by adopting sustainable practices and embracing environmental consciousness, such as reevaluating food buying programs and prioritizing plant-based options. These initiatives not only reduce carbon emissions and support climate goals but also align with growing consumer demand for more sustainable and ethical choices.
This is the signature question we ask in most of our interviews. What are your “5 things I wish someone told me when I first started promoting sustainability and climate justice” and why?
- Meet people where they are at: It’s crucial to communicate about sustainability and climate justice in a way that resonates with people from all backgrounds. Climate education often tends to be overly academic and esoteric, making it important to use plain language and relatable examples to engage a wider audience.
- Frame sustainability and climate justice as problems with solutions: Instead of presenting climate information in a negative and dualistic manner, it’s more effective to focus on the solutions and actionable steps that individuals and communities can take. By highlighting the potential for problem-solving, we can generate greater interest and engagement in sustainability and climate justice initiatives.
- Tailor communication to different generations: Different generations have distinct perspectives on sustainability and the lasting impact on our planet. It’s crucial to adapt the way we speak about these topics to cater to different age groups. Recognizing the diverse media environments and lived experiences that shape each generation’s viewpoint can help us effectively communicate the urgency and relevance of sustainability and climate justice.
- Overcome political divisions: Sustainability and climate justice should not be confined to any specific political affiliation. Engaging people from all political backgrounds is essential to create broad support for these issues. Recognize that conservative values, such as love for country and appreciation for national parks, can align with sustainability goals. By depoliticizing the conversation and finding common ground, we can bridge partisan divides and promote collective action.
- Highlight the connection between sustainability and food: While the focus on fossil fuels in climate change discussions is essential, it’s crucial to also emphasize the impact of food choices, particularly meat, dairy, and eggs. Despite being significant contributors to climate change, the connection between food and environmental sustainability is often overlooked in media coverage. By raising awareness about the environmental impact of food choices, we can help individuals make more informed decisions and drive meaningful change.
Overall, by embracing these five insights, we can enhance our communication strategies, engage diverse audiences, and promote sustainable practices and climate justice more effectively.
Is there a person in the world, or in the US with whom you would like to have a private breakfast or lunch with, and why? He or she might just see this, especially if we tag them. 🙂
Arnold Schwarzenegger has made significant contributions to climate action and sustainability. As governor, he played a key role in implementing comprehensive climate policies, notably in improving nationwide emission standards for automobiles. This achievement was a groundbreaking milestone in the fight against climate change.
Schwarzenegger’s involvement in the documentary “The Game Changers” further showcases his commitment to educating people about the benefits of a plant-based diet. The film, which has gained immense popularity, has been instrumental in raising awareness and promoting plant-based eating as a climate solution.
What sets Schwarzenegger apart is his ability to leverage both his political and entertainment platforms to advocate for climate solutions. His influential voice reaches a wide audience, making him a crucial leader in breaking through to the masses and inspiring action.
By championing climate initiatives and promoting sustainable lifestyle choices, Schwarzenegger has demonstrated the kind of leadership that is needed to drive meaningful change and address the urgent challenges of climate change.
How can our readers continue to follow your work online?
Social Media
@jennystojkovic TikTok instagram twitter
linkedin.com/in/jenniferstojkovic
@veganwomensummit TikTok instagram Facebook linkedin
@vegwomensummit is twitter
This was very meaningful, thank you so much. We wish you only continued success on your great work!
About the Interviewer: Monica Sanders JD, LL.M, is the founder of “The Undivide Project”, an organization dedicated to creating climate resilience in underserved communities using good tech and the power of the Internet. She holds faculty roles at the Georgetown University Law Center and the Tulane University Disaster Resilience Leadership Academy. Professor Sanders also serves on several UN agency working groups. As an attorney, Monica has held senior roles in all three branches of government, private industry, and nonprofits. In her previous life, she was a journalist for seven years and the recipient of several awards, including an Emmy. Now the New Orleans native spends her time in solidarity with and championing change for those on the frontlines of climate change and digital divestment. Learn more about how to join her at: www.theundivideproject.org.
How Jennifer Stojkovic Of Vegan Women Summit Is Helping to Promote Sustainability and Climate… was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.