Earlier this month, Charlotte Benishek ’11 and Amelie Vavrosky’14 joined moderator Marcus Gerhardt (UWC Atlantic ’92) for a conversation on mission-driven startups and how UWC-USA shaped their paths. For those who were not able to attend live, the full recording is now available.
Drawing on their experiences in climate innovation and legal technology, Charlotte and Amelie reflected on how their UWC education continues to influence the way they approach complex global problems. Charlotte, who works at the intersection of climate strategy and emerging technologies, spoke about bridging divides—between startups and traditional industries, and between innovation and implementation. Amelie, founder of Formally, shared how her commitment to expanding access to justice grew from questions first explored at UWC and now reaches more than 300,000 users.
Throughout the discussion, both alumni returned to a common theme: the enduring value of diverse perspectives and human connection. “The relationships and ways of thinking you build at UWC stay with you,” Amelie noted, emphasizing that even in a rapidly evolving landscape shaped by artificial intelligence, these foundations remain essential.
The conversation also explored timely questions about balancing profit and purpose, navigating political shifts, and building organizations that reflect both values and viability. It offered a candid look at the realities of entrepreneurship—alongside a hopeful reminder that meaningful impact often begins with curiosity, collaboration, and a willingness to try.
Watch the full recording (passcode: fT!J5ALW) to learn more about these remarkable UWC-USA alumni and their work.