The Mastercard Foundation announced the launch of a new podcast designed to challenge, motivate, and inspire the next generation to lead with purpose and act with courage.
Transcending Boundaries – Conversations with Reeta Roy is a captivating series that shares the life stories, leadership trajectories, and learnings of remarkable global leaders, including former heads of state, human rights advocates, and social change pioneers.
Hosted by Reeta Roy, President and CEO of the Mastercard Foundation, this podcast highlights the experiences and influences that have shaped some of the world’s most inspiring changemakers.
In my life as a leader, I have learned that it is essential to start a conversation by listening,” says Reeta Roy. “Through the conversations in Transcending Boundaries, we offer a unique opportunity to learn from people who have transformed their own lives and the world around them. Understanding the formative years that shaped these extraordinary leaders is a valuable source of wisdom and encouragement. We all can become leaders and make a difference.”
The podcast kicked off on March 10, 2025, with a powerful first episode featuring Nobel Laureate and former President of Liberia, Her Excellency Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. A pioneer in governance and women’s rights, Madam President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf shared the experiences that shaped her vision, the mentors who guided her, and the values that sustained her through times of challenge and triumph.
“I learned to be strong in success while maintaining my self-confidence in adversity,” said President Sirleaf. “My mother’s strength, being able to take care of us while encouraging us to stay focused on our education, to continue our studies, to prepare for the future, I think that is where my strength of character lies. My ability to move forward when I see something that can improve not only my life but also the society in which I live.
Madam President Sirleaf,
The podcast will be an eight-episode weekly series that invites listeners into an essential conversation about leadership, values, and transformation—themes that are especially relevant in today’s world. The podcast will be available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.
The episodes will feature a prestigious selection of guests who have made their mark in their respective fields, including Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former President of Liberia; Louise Arbour, former United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights and Chief Prosecutor of the International Criminal Tribunals for the former Yugoslavia and Rwanda; and Mary Robinson, former President of Ireland among others.
About the Mastercard Foundation
The Mastercard Foundation is a registered Canadian charity and one of the largest foundations in the world. It works with visionary organizations to advance education and financial inclusion to enable young people in Africa and Indigenous youth in Canada to access dignified and fulfilling work.
