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The Social Change Career Podcast

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  2. E13 S14 How to Shape Systems for Good: Lessons from a Global Impact Career with Marcela Ochoa Bernal

E13 S14 How to Shape Systems for Good: Lessons from a Global Impact Career with Marcela Ochoa Bernal

Oct 3, 2025

 

Why take a listen?

If you’re serious about building a high-impact career at the intersection of public-private partnerships, diplomacy, and sustainable development—or just curious about what it takes to make real change happen—this episode is for you.

Dr. Craig Zelizer sits down with Marcela Ochoa Bernal, a global leader with deep experience in shaping policy, building international partnerships, and delivering impact that lasts. From playing “bankers” as a child in Colombia to influencing sustainable development strategies across borders, Marcela’s story is both inspiring and practical for anyone considering their next steps in social impact.

What you’ll learn

Systems Change in Action
How Marcela has worked across government, NGOs, and the private sector to shape systems for good—leading programs that drive impact at both local and international levels.

Funding Demystified
Her insider’s perspective on how development funding really works, from Geneva boardrooms to grassroots communities, and what it takes to make resources deliver results for people.

Sustainable Impact & Real Challenges
Candid reflections on keeping projects alive beyond funding cycles—and why resilience, education, and mindset are as important as money.

Global Career Insights
From Universidad Externado de Colombia to Seoul National University, Marcela’s career path offers lessons in building bilateral and multilateral partnerships, winning competitive fellowships, and navigating international education.

Building a Resilient Career (and Staying Sane)
Marcela shares how she sustains hope and energy by staying connected to community, purpose, and the power of networks.

About Marcela Ochoa Bernal

Marcela Ochoa Bernal is a Colombian leader in diplomacy, development, and systems change. With a career spanning government service, nonprofit leadership, and multilateral cooperation, she has focused on designing and implementing programs that connect policy with people.

She studied law at Universidad Externado de Colombia and completed graduate studies at Seoul National University, supported by prestigious international fellowships. Her work has included leadership roles with the British Embassy in Colombia, engagement with bilateral and multilateral partners, and advising on sustainable development, education, and inclusive growth.

Marcela has also collaborated with initiatives such as Corporación Antioquia Presente, ProAntioquia, and has contributed to global policy through the OECD Development Assistance Committee (DAC). Her approach combines rigorous policy knowledge with grassroots understanding, making her a bridge-builder across systems and cultures.

Resources & Links Mentioned

🎧 Take a listen

Check out almost 200 episodes of the Social Change Career Podcast for more stories from global changemakers:
https://pcdn.global/listen

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