15. April 2024 | Willy Brandt School of Public Policy, Development and Socio-Economic Policies

The Importance of Social Entrepreneurship in Public and International Organizations

Professor Grimm delivers guest lecture at the United Nations Environment Programme in Kenya

At UNEP in Nairobi with Dr. Atif Butt

During her recent business trip to Kenya, Professor Dr. Grimm had the privilege of delivering a guest lecture at the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) on the pivotal role of social entrepreneurship in fostering skills, development and communication. This invitation, extended by Dr. Atif Ikram Butt, Section Chief overseeing Public Advocacy and Communication at UNEP's headquarters in Nairobi, was particularly meaningful as Dr. Butt himself is an alumnus of the Brandt School, having graduated in 2006 as one of its inaugural Master of Public Policy students.

Dr. Grimm's presentation, followed by a lively question and answer session, underscored the significance of (social) entrepreneurship within the realm of public and international organizations, resonating deeply with the audience and UNEP staff. The ensuing discussion delved into the transformative potential of an entrepreneurial mindset, particularly in the leadership of public and NGO sector entities, as well as its role in driving grassroots development initiatives across diverse contexts.

In an intriguing development shared during the visit, Dr. Butt revealed plans for the relocation of the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF) headquarters to Nairobi, highlighting the growing importance of the Global South in shaping international policymaking and advocacy efforts. Additionally, there are discussions underway regarding the potential relocation of the UN World Food Program to Nairobi.

Swarthmore University Kenya — At Strathmore University with Lynette Osiemo, PhD and Allan Mukuki, PhD, Director of International Partnerships

Taking advantage of her time in Nairobi, Dr. Grimm proactively explored opportunities for collaboration with Dr. Lynette Osiemo and Allan Mukuki, respectively serving as Director of International Partnerships at Strathmore University. Both expressed keen interest in forging future partnerships with the Brandt School, particularly in advancing research and initiatives focused on bottom-up development through (social) entrepreneurship.

Strathmore University's Law School has developed an innovative concept known as the Law Clinic, which receives attention for its impactful work in the legal field. One area of particular interest is their Entrepreneurship Clinic, an initiative that has remarkable potential for future collaboration. The Entrepreneurship Clinic at Strathmore University's Law School is a dynamic platform dedicated to providing legal assistance and guidance to aspiring entrepreneurs and startups. Through this clinic, students are given the opportunity to apply their legal knowledge and skills in a real-world setting, dealing with the legal challenges faced by entrepreneurs.

Given the alignment of our academic interests and goals, exploring potential collaboration with the Entrepreneurship Clinic at Strathmore University presents an exciting opportunity for our students. By working together, we can share and further develop our collective knowledge and resources to support aspiring entrepreneurs, facilitate interdisciplinary learning, and make meaningful contributions to entrepreneurial initiatives.

In addition to these formal engagements, Dr. Grimm also connected with Kenyan social entrepreneurs. She participated in a tree planting initiative at the Kenyan-Tanzanian border, an endeavor brought forward by a group of young entrepreneurs who initiated the seed and tree planting project in childhood quite some years ago, showcasing a sustainable social entrepreneurial endeavor with a smart marketing strategy.