Our Mission
Imperative 21 is a global network shaping economic narratives and reimagining systems so everyone, everywhere can thrive.
This dominant narrative about the economy and what it values excludes the interests, needs and experiences of people and communities poorly served by the current system.
Imperative 21 harnesses the power of networks to create the conditions for people and community-centered economic narratives to break through and displace those stories that no longer serve us.
Our network is united by our vision and shared mission to
shift the cultural narrative about the role of business and finance in society consistent with the co-created Imperatives for Economic System Change.
Imperative 21 is strategically supported by Common Future, together collaborating with leaders who have the imagination and courage to reimagine our economic system, and model new ways of working and investing so that everyone, everywhere can thrive.
Our Strategic Partners
Leadership
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Akira Nakahara
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Akira has spent the past 20 + years working in narrative change with some of most impactful organizations in the world that have shaped our beliefs and actions around human rights, healthcare, education, racism, inclusive economies, voting, and socially conscious business. Akira is a co-founder of A-B Partners, a narrative strategy agency that creates breakthrough insights, creative, and campaigns to help leaders in every sector transform how power works and who it works for. Akira comes from a multi-racial background, born in Spain, and is now based in New York City.
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Jay Coen Gilbert
EXECUTIVE CHAIR
Jay Coen Gilbert is Executive Chair of Imperative 21, a global network building narrative power for a just economy. Jay is cofounder of B Lab and the B Corporation movement, with nearly 8,000 companies across 80 countries. Jay is cofounder of White Men for Racial Justice (WMRJ), an anti-racist pro-justice community of practice. Prior, Jay cofounded AND 1, a global basketball footwear, apparel, and entertainment company. Jay grew up in NYC and graduated from Stanford University.