Empowering Leaders and Advocating for Social Justice
A Visionary Leader’s Mission:
Toni McLelland MSc FRSA, the heart and soul behind 1st Life Group, has dedicated over 30 years to championing social justice and supporting organizations in navigating crises. Her boutique consultancy specializes in business for Third Sector social impact, social mobility, and social justice, with a unique focus on helping leaders and startups create inclusive, compassionate organizations to futureproof. With a keen interest in behavioral sciences and applied criminology, Toni combines her expertise in behavior and people to achieve results. Through her work, she is not just a critical friend or consultant but a mentor and a transformative force for positive change.
Leadership Spotlight
Toni McLelland:An RSA Fellow has marked by her deep commitment to social justice, her extensive experience in criminal justice, specialist education, social care, and central government roles as lifelong learning. As a “Critical Friend” and Business Mentor, she has led responses to some of the UK’s most significant social challenges, including her involvement in delivering recommendations from the Stephen Lawrence Inquiry and community-centered approaches for the Grenfell disaster. Toni has also spearheaded initiatives such as Peace Week and critical incidents during her previous work in community safety. Her leadership is characterized by a blend of strategic insight and a heartfelt dedication to fostering sustainable, socially conscious business practices.
Toni McLelland: From Crisis Manager to Catalyst for Change
Innovating Leadership
Toni’s professional journey began in the demanding fields of criminal justice and education, where she developed a keen understanding of the societal issues that drive her work today. Her time at the Ministry of Justice and the Home Office allowed her to witness firsthand the complexities of social change and the urgent need for compassionate leadership. This experience now fuels her consultancy, where Toni applies her knowledge to help others navigate challenges and lead with purpose.
Toni’s Approach to Socially Conscious Consultancy:
Toni McLelland brings a unique approach to consultancy, combining strategic expertise with her Personal Change model and a strong commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB). While she works at the sharp end with organizations and corporates, Toni is passionate about bringing the learning back 360 degrees to empower social entrepreneurs and startups early on in their journey. She empowers startups to secure essential funding, develop business acumen, and supports leaders in transforming their organizations into inclusive environments that thrive on empathy and integrity, all while ensuring they get great results and are paid well for their great cause. Toni’s innovative strategies have made her a trusted advisor to leaders and a pivotal figure in driving industry change.
Toni’s Commitment to Community and Social Justice
Toni’s influence extends far beyond the business world. Her work with institutions like the Metropolitan Police, NHS, Scope Disability and MIND Mental Health highlights her dedication to improving societal outcomes and supporting vulnerable communities. Toni’s efforts are not just about business success—they are about making a tangible difference in society driven by social capital and social impact. Through mentoring, coaching, and consultancy, she helps leaders create meaningful, lasting impacts, develop business acumen, and foster a culture of social responsibility and ethical leadership.
The Future of Social Justice Leadership with Toni McLelland:
As she looks to the future, Toni McLelland remains committed to expanding her impact. She plans to continue working closely with startups and organizations focused on social justice while also mentoring emerging leaders who share her vision. Toni’s work with her team will undoubtedly continue to inspire and influence, driving forward the cause of social justice and sustainable leadership on a broader scale.
The Essence of Toni’s Leadership
- Unique Value Proposition:Toni offers a rare combination of deep social justice expertise and a compassionate, strategic approach to business leadership.
- Leadership Vision: Her vision is to equip leaders with both the business skills and the empathetic insight necessary for creating sustainable change and building profitable organizations that excel in their performance.
- Market Positioning: Toni’s consultancy is uniquely positioned as a leader in promoting socially responsible and ethically driven business practices.
- Customer Engagement: Through personalized mentorship and a commitment to social justice, Toni connects deeply with her clients, guiding them through challenges and towards meaningful success.
Editorial Reflection:
Toni McLelland’s leadership journey is a profound example of how one person’s dedication to social justice can ripple out to create widespread change. Her work is not just about helping businesses succeed; it’s about role modeling while nurturing a generation of leaders who are committed to making the world a better, more just place. Toni’s legacy is one of empowerment, inspiration, and unwavering commitment to the causes that matter most. Known as the “Queen of Compassion,” she is often described as fairy dust personified—a testament to her ability to transform lives and organizations with her unique blend of expertise, heart and of course her fairy dust.
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