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  <h2>In this inspiring episode of <em>The Charity Changemakers Podcast</em>, host Adam Stacey sits down with Mary Oakes, Chief Executive of Opportunity International UK</h2>

  <p>Mary shares her fascinating journey from studying equine science to leading a global development charity focused on financial inclusion. She explains how she “fell into fundraising,” why mentorship and international fieldwork have shaped her leadership, and how Opportunity International is helping women and marginalised communities create brighter futures through microloans.</p>

  <p>From the story of a young refugee entrepreneur to honest reflections on women in leadership, this conversation is packed with insight, encouragement, and practical inspiration.</p>

  <h3>What you'll learn from this episode:</h3>
  <ul>
    <li>How Mary transitioned from equine science to a purpose-driven fundraising career</li>
    <li>The role of international experience in shaping effective charity leaders</li>
    <li>What Opportunity International is doing to empower communities through microfinance</li>
    <li>Why mentorship, networking, and self-belief are vital for sector leadership</li>
    <li>The unique challenges facing women leaders in the charity world</li>
    <li>How Opportunity offer a “hand up, not a handout”</li>
  </ul>

  <h3>Key takeaways</h3>
  <p>Mary’s career shows how an unconventional start can lead to incredible impact. From her early fundraising days at Tearfund to leadership roles at World Vision and now Opportunity International, her story reflects the value of saying yes to opportunities, building strong networks, and staying grounded in purpose.</p>

  <p>She champions microloans as a transformative tool for dignity and empowerment – particularly for women – and offers heartfelt encouragement to the next generation of charity leaders.</p>

  <h3>About our guest</h3>
  <p>Mary Oakes is the Chief Executive of Opportunity International UK, an organisation that empowers people in poverty to transform their lives through financial tools, training, and support. With a background spanning several international development charities, Mary is a passionate advocate for dignity, inclusion, and sustainable change.</p>

  <h3>Why you should listen</h3>
  <p>If you're exploring a leadership path in the charity sector or passionate about financial empowerment and gender equity, this episode delivers practical wisdom and heartfelt stories. Mary’s reflections offer encouragement for aspiring leaders – and a powerful reminder that purpose-led work can begin in the most unexpected places.</p>

  <h3>Follow <em>The Charity Changemakers Podcast</em></h3>
  <p>Watch on <a href="https://www.youtube.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">YouTube</a>, or listen on <a href="https://www.spotify.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Spotify</a> and <a href="https://www.apple.com/apple-podcasts" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Apple Podcasts</a> for more interviews with leaders creating real impact in the nonprofit world.</p>

  <p>Learn more about Opportunity International at <a href="https://www.opportunity.org.uk" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">www.opportunity.org.uk</a></p>

  <p>Connect with <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamstacey" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Adam Stacey on LinkedIn</a> for more discussions on charity leadership and recruitment.</p>

  <h3>Chapters</h3>
  <ul>
    <li>00:00 Introduction to Mary Oakes and Her Journey</li>
    <li>04:54 Mary's Path to the Charity Sector</li>
    <li>07:49 Early Days in Fundraising at Tearfund</li>
    <li>11:03 Expanding Horizons: Experiences at World Vision</li>
    <li>13:59 Impact of Field Visits on Fundraising</li>
    <li>16:58 Transitioning to Leadership Roles</li>
    <li>19:43 Navigating Challenges in the Charity Sector</li>
    <li>23:07 Building a Supportive Network</li>
    <li>25:55 Becoming Chief Executive of Opportunity International</li>
    <li>29:10 Opportunity International's Mission and Work</li>
    <li>32:08 Real Stories of Impact from Refugee Settlements</li>
    <li>34:54 How to Support Opportunity International</li>
    <li>37:57 Advice to Younger Self and Closing Thoughts</li>
  </ul>

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