From Mice to Leadership: Irene's Journey of Transformation and Impact

Let’s face it — daily, as the human race, we face staggering challenges—poverty, gender inequality, and environmental crises.

And each day it’s easy to feel that our individual small actions are insignificant.

But true transformation always starts with something small: a spark of opportunity, a hand extended in trust or a moment of kindness. At B1G1, we’ve always believed in the incredible ‘power of small’ to ignite big change.

Recently, we came face to face with that reality when we had the privilege of speaking with Rachel Lindley, the inspiring leader of Five Talents, a B1G1 Worthy Cause. Through our conversation, Rachel shared the deeply moving and inspiring story of Irene, a woman who went from struggling in poverty to becoming an empowered entrepreneur and leader in her community.

It’s a story that perfectly embodies how micro-impacts can transform not only individuals but entire communities for generations to come. Watch the video below to follow the journey of Irene and see the staggering statistics about the impact of Five Talents.

Irene’s Story: From Mice to Magnificence

Irene’s journey began in the most modest of ways.

She lived in poverty, lacked literacy skills, and had little hope for a different future. However, with the support of Five Talents, Irene learned to read and to count — the things we take for granted.

She was now able to read signs (AND count the change she was given when she bought things! And that led to her first tiny opportunity: an initial loan to buy mice . Yes, mice (a source of protein when you can’t afford meat). She learned to breed the mice — not the most conventional start to a business, but that small spark allowed Irene to build her first enterprise.

From that initial step, Irene’s business grew. She bought rabbits (they bred too), then chickens which provided eggs to make cakes. She began to employ other women, earning not just income but also the respect of her community.

Today, Irene has multiple enterprises. What started as a humble chance became a profound transformation—not just for her but for those around her. Irene is now recognized as a leader, someone who inspires and uplifts others.

Five Talents—The Impact Beyond the Surface

Rachel explained that the ripple effects of stories like Irene’s go far beyond what is visible on the surface. For example, when you read about a project in B1G1—like supporting a woman with entrepreneurship skills—it might seem simple, almost transactional. Yet, the immeasurable benefits are harder to describe:

Empowerment: Irene did not just earn money; she became confident, respected, and a role model for other women.
Sustainability: As women like Irene succeed, they create businesses that employ others, spreading economic benefits throughout the community.
Community Transformation: Rachel shared that even after Five Talents phases out direct work in a community, the mutual support groups they initiate continue for years. This shows the deep-rooted impact that empowerment can achieve.

These are not isolated successes; they are systemic changes that create generational transformation.

Why “Small” Matters: Micro-Impacts with Macro Results

At B1G1, we list over 450 life-changing projects from around the world. To an outsider, browsing these projects might feel like an unusual yet impactful “shopping experience”—choosing small, meaningful ways to make a difference.

But the brilliance of B1G1 lies in the micro-units of impact: planting a single tree, providing a day of education, or delivering a simple meal. These acts might seem small, but as Irene’s story reminds us, small investments can lead to extraordinary outcomes.

The Power of Leaders in Communities

You transform a community when you empower one individual.

Irene’s success is not just about her own achievements. By employing others, she became a multiplier of opportunities, spreading hope to other women in her village. This cascading effect is why B1G1 focuses on supporting initiatives that create leaders. Leaders like Irene inspire their communities to rise up, take charge, and sustain positive change.

As Rachel pointed out, Five Talents’ impact didn’t stop when their direct involvement ended. The communities embraced the principles of empowerment and mutual support, carrying the torch forward. This is the hallmark of a true, lasting impact.

A Message to Businesses: The Opportunity to Lead Change

For businesses considering whether to make a difference, the scale of global issues can feel overwhelming. How can one company possibly tackle poverty, climate change, or inequality?

But the truth is, change doesn’t start with solving everything—it starts with one action. One investment in one life can ripple outward, creating immeasurable change.

As businesses, while we invest in our own growth, we also have an opportunity—and a responsibility—to invest in others. This is not just about philanthropy; it’s about creating a sustainable world for future generations. It’s about ensuring that the children of today inherit a world filled with opportunities, not limitations.

Through platforms like B1G1, every business, no matter its size, can make a difference. And as Irene’s story shows, small actions truly lead to big change.

Final Thoughts: Let’s Spread These Stories

The story of Irene and the work of Five Talents remind us of the extraordinary potential we unlock when we trust, empower, and uplift others. For B1G1 members, this is an opportunity to celebrate and amplify the impact you are creating. Share stories like Irene’s with your team, clients, and networks to inspire collective action.

And for those who are yet to join B1G1, let this be a gentle nudge: the world doesn’t need perfection; it needs participation. One action, one moment of kindness, can change everything.

Interested in becoming a Business for Good? Get in touch with our partnership team to start transforming lives and your business.

If you are a B1G1 Member and want to support Five Talents' projects, explore their projects here.

Together, we really can create ripples of positive change in the world.