In this inspiring episode of The Charity Changemakers Podcast, host Adam Stacey sits down with Mary Oakes, Chief Executive of Opportunity International UK.

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.

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.

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

Key takeaways:
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.

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.

About our guest:
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.

Why you should listen:
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.

Follow The Charity Changemakers Podcast:
Watch on YouTube, or listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts for more interviews with leaders creating real impact in the nonprofit world.

Learn more about Opportunity International at www.opportunity.org.uk

Connect with Adam Stacey on LinkedIn for more discussions on charity leadership and recruitment.

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Mary Oakes and her journey
04:54 Mary's path to the charity sector
07:49 Early days in fundraising at Tearfund
11:03 Expanding horizons: Experiences at World Vision
13:59 Impact of field visits on fundraising
16:58 Transitioning to leadership roles
19:43 Navigating challenges in the charity sector
23:07 Building a supportive network
25:55 Becoming Chief Executive of Opportunity International
29:10 Opportunity International's mission and work
32:08 Real stories of impact from refugee settlements
34:54 How to support Opportunity International
37:57 Advice to younger self and closing thoughts