The Open Doors Initiative Launches their 2024 Annual Report

Open Doors Initiative (ODI), the not-for-profit organisation creating pathways to education, employment and entrepreneurship for marginalised individuals, launched their 2024 Annual Report with professionals from their network of corporate partners as well as programme participants. Detailing the impact of their work with nearly 30,000 individuals who engaged directly with ODI or their partner organisations in 2024, the stories of several featured participants clearly show that it is a critical time for recommitment to values of diversity, equity and inclusion. 

While sharing an overview of the report, ODI CEO Jeanne McDonagh said: “Today, many people live with fear. Fear of change, fear of movement, fear of social upheaval. Some have to leave their homes and countries, some can’t live in a society which disables them, some fear walking on the street with their loved ones, some are not accepted in the place where they come from. World events are destabilising and are having a chilling effect on social impact and positive change. People and leaders are rescinding from their real values, to, as they see it, protect livelihoods and businesses in a tumultuous world. 

So how do we get the pendulum to swing back to consensus, stability and economic prosperity? We know that Corporate Social Justice, through understanding and responding to the lived experiences of the underrepresented, is key as is creating an environment where everybody thrives through the eradication of systemic inequalities. This is the future we need. We need to actively mitigate against harm and promote inclusion. Companies are catalysts for social change, and it is reflected in people acting with their values and choosing to support those companies that mirror them.”

ODI Chairperson, Paddy Hayes, CEO of ESB, also shared his thoughts: “This report captures the measurable progress we've made, the lives we've touched, and the systems we've challenged. It tells the story of collaborative impact of the companies, civil society organisations, public agencies, and individuals who have chosen to act, and effect change.

As we look to the future, the challenges remain real. But so too does our determination. The need for inclusive action has never been greater and neither has the opportunity to be part of something meaningful.”