In this powerful conversation, I sit down with Pierre Berastain, former Regional Director for North America at the Center for Public Impact and co-founder of Caminar Latino-Latinos United for Peace and Equity. Pierre has spent over 15 years advancing social justice, gender equity, and systems change. Today, he joins us to talk about what it really means to decolonize leadership in the nonprofit world.

Together, we unpack how colonizing narratives shape our understanding of risk, safety, and authority — and how leaders can begin redistributing imagination, rest, and voice to those most impacted by inequitable systems. Pierre challenges us to examine our cultural scripts and reimagine what it means to lead inclusively and authentically.

If you’re ready to explore how your leadership can foster belonging, equity, and courage in your nonprofit organization, this episode is a must-listen.

In this episode:

00:00:00 Pierre’s Journey to Public Impact Leadership
00:05:45 How Colonizing Narratives Shape Risk
00:09:35 Redistributing Imagination and Rest
00:17:15 Building Trust and Cultural Awareness
00:25:09 Centering Lived Experience in Leadership

RESOURCES

The Lead with Heart Summit is not just another conference. It's a powerful, purpose-driven experience created specifically for nonprofit fundraisers who are feeling burned out, stretched thin, and in need of real, meaningful support. April, 2026.

Pierre recently announced he’ll be joining The SAFE Alliance as its next CEO, supporting survivors of violence and abuse through integrated services.
Read the announcement HERE

CONNECT WITH PIERRE

LinkedIn: Pierre Berastain

Website: https://pierreberastain.com/

Send Haley a suggestion or request via text HERE!

My book, Sow, Grow, Lead is live on Amazon! It shares my journey of starting a nonprofit in Malawi and offers practical strategies for nonprofit leaders to create real impact.

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CONNECT WITH HALEY
Haley is a CFRE, Stress Management Coach, and EmC trainer. Founder of The Savvy Fundraiser, she brings experience in human services, homelessness, and youth nonprofits. She specializes in EmC, leadership, board development, and fundraising, empowering nonprofit leaders to build thriving organizations.
Instagram: @thesavvyfundraiser
LinkedIn: Haley Cooper, CFRE
Website: thesavvyfundraiser.com
YouTube: thesavvyfundraiser
Produced by Ideablossoms