In a world increasingly shaped by urgent calls for inclusive growth and ethical leadership, Faith-Based Organisations (FBOs) hold a unique and often underestimated position of influence. Rooted in principles of justice, compassion, and stewardship, these institutions have long been at the heart of community development, humanitarian support, and moral guidance. But the time has come for FBOs to expand their role—not just as responders to social challenges, but as proactive architects of sustainable economic and societal transformation.

Shared Value Creation, a business strategy pioneered by Professors Michael Porter and Mark Kramer, challenges organisations to address social issues through core business operations, thereby driving both profitability and positive societal outcomes. For FBOs, this approach aligns naturally with their values and presents a powerful opportunity to evolve from charitable intervention to systemic change.

Instead of relying solely on donations and service delivery, a Shared Value approach encourages FBOs to invest in economic empowerment, foster social enterprise models, and collaborate with the private sector to integrate underserved communities into the broader economy. Whether it’s through skills development, ethical supply chains, or inclusive investment strategies, FBOs can lead the shift from relief to resilience.

Take, for example, their ability to advocate for ethical and inclusive business practices. FBOs have the moral authority to influence both public and private sectors—calling for fair wages, equitable labor policies, gender equality, and environmental stewardship. By engaging directly in policy dialogues, sustainable partnerships, and impact investing, faith-based institutions can shape a future where purpose and profit coexist.

Moreover, as Africa builds its future, FBOs can play a catalytic role in mainstreaming Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles across sectors. ESG is no longer just a framework for compliance—it is a strategic necessity for long-term resilience, reputation, and responsible leadership. FBOs, by embedding ESG in their organisational missions, can set a precedent for integrity, sustainability, and accountability.

This belief in the transformative power of Shared Value and faith-led leadership inspired the recent Shared Value Africa (SVA) and EKOG Global Roundtable, which brought together faith leaders from Kenya in Nairobi to explore how ESG and Shared Value can be embedded into the core operations of faith-based institutions. The resounding message was clear: FBOs must go beyond charity to build legacies of empowerment, economic inclusion, and ethical governance.

It is in this spirit of purpose and collaboration that I am deeply honored to share two new responsibilities that speak directly to this mission.

I have been invited to join the G20 Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group (ECSWG), which brings together global leaders to shape the future of environmental policy, biodiversity, and climate action. Representing Shared Value thinking in such a forum is both a privilege and a responsibility—an opportunity to amplify the voice of ethical leadership and advocate for solutions that uplift people and planet alike.

In addition, I have been appointed to the Governing Council of the Africa Future Leaders Institute of Global Affairs (AFLIGA). This platform is committed to nurturing visionary, values-driven African leadership. I look forward to contributing to its work in guiding future leaders toward sustainable, inclusive, and impact-focused growth strategies.

At Shared Value Africa, we believe that change happens when purpose meets action. FBOs are no longer just spiritual anchors—they are potential economic catalysts, ethical watchdogs, and sustainability champions. The time is now for faith-based institutions to lead with intention, partner with purpose, and help shape an Africa where prosperity is truly shared.

By Tiekie Barnard