1,000 Dreams Fund Announces Winners of Inaugural ‘VP of Impact for the Day,’ Powered by Nestlé

Imagine you were the Vice President (VP) of Impact at Nestlé, in charge of overseeing strategic programs and policies focused on being a force for good. Think about how you would harness the power of food and engage Nestlé brands, employees, retail partners, and consumers to create a positive impact in the world.  

That’s exactly what our applicants were tasked with when they submitted to our “VP of Impact for the Day” Challenge, powered by Nestlé. 

The challenge was focused on leaving the world better than we found it, and asked applicants to demonstrate creativity, innovation, and problem-solving skills. Through this program, applicants showcased unique insights into how companies like Nestlé might approach topics such as innovation, community engagement, sustainability, and social responsibility. 

This groundbreaking program celebrates highly motivated NextGen women who are inspired to make their mark as leaders and changemakers.  

Challenge winners receive an exciting prize package to accelerate their success: 

  • $1,000 microgrant to further their education towards their dream career
  • 1:1 virtual mentor session with a professional from Nestlé  
  • Nestlé product prize package 

Now, we’re so excited to introduce our 10 winners to you! 

Athitiya S. – The University of Texas at Austin

  • “Inspired by my love for the $1 Nestlé Kit Kat Bar, I hope to work with this Nestlé-owned brand and the Nestle media outreach team to start a one million dollar fundraising challenge”

Ayomikun M. – Talladega College

  • “By celebrating the power of food and the joy it brings, we can raise awareness and make a real difference. Jollof rice and Dodo are not just delicious — they are symbols of generosity, hospitality, and togetherness.”

Chanel Y. – Point Loma Nazarene University

  • “The ‘One Plate, One Future’ campaign would leverage Nestlé’s resources and commitment to sustainable food practices to make a real difference in students’ lives.”

Destiney J. – Grambling State University

  • “The overarching goal of ‘Nourish to Flourish’ is to raise $1 million through a combination of employee contributions, brand initiatives, retail partnerships, and consumer engagement efforts.”

Ivana K. – Immaculata University

  • “I would harness the power of food to advocate for improved labeling standards and raise awareness about the importance of gluten-free diets for those with celiac disease or other medical conditions requiring it.”

Julie R. – Southern New Hampshire University

  • “Join the ‘All for Lunch Challenge’ where the money raised could easily wipe out school lunch debt. Join me in eliminating the 20% of American children unsure of where their next meal will come from.”

Lauren F. – Spelman College

  • “By leveraging popular brands like Toll House, Nesquik, and DiGiorno, Nestlé will use its influence to deliver meals and essential resources to those in need through the Nestlé Nourish Fund.”

Mika M. – Golden Gate University

  • “Employees will participate in volunteering and fundraising, while consumers can contribute through special product purchases and family-focused events.”

Mina N.  – University of Southern Maine

  • “A commitment to plant-based snacks, sustainable shipping practices, safe transportation, and fostering an educational environment for our workforce will empower everyone to understand the global importance of their efforts.”

Sofie W. – Hanover College

  • “My idea is to create product partnerships and limited-edition packaging that showcases children’s artwork made during art therapy sessions, using these to help Nestlé connect consumers directly with the cause.”

Congratulations again to our first-ever “VP of Impact for the Day” Challenge winners and thank you to Nestlé for making it possible to dream big and help upskill the next generation of leaders. 

Let’s keep dreaming big and making a difference — together!