Nick Mastenbroek
Manager nlmtd
Nick Mastenbroek is a dynamic and creative consultant at nlmtd, specializing in digital transformation and social impact. With a background in the digitalization of large corporations, he now focuses on supporting impact-driven scale-ups in achieving their social missions. Nick combines in-depth analysis with actionable steps, and he has a keen interest in emerging technologies and social issues.
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During Create the Future 2025, a powerful message was conveyed: How can we ensure that the most talented individuals are dedicated to addressing the urgent challenges of our time? In a world where complex issues such as climate change, social inequality, and the energy transition are becoming increasingly pressing, it is vital for skilled professionals to apply their abilities towards making a positive impact.
In an impressive session, Julia van Boven, co-founder of the School for Moral Ambition, shared her personal journey from working at ABN AMRO to establishing a movement focused on achieving maximum impact.
What should I do if I believe that companies are the root of all evil? I started at ABN AMRO to create the biggest change. But I kept asking myself: Am I here for comfort or for impact? Can I make the most impact from this organization? Where are my skills most needed?
Inspired by an article by Rutger Bregman on charity entrepreneurship, she eventually left her job at the bank. She reached out to Bregman and became a co-founder of the School for Moral Ambition.
Ingredients of Moral Ambition
At the School for Moral Ambition, the mission is clear: to assist as many individuals as possible in pursuing a career or making contributions that have a positive impact. They believe that true impact starts with three core principles:
A new definition of success focuses on the impact you make, rather than just money or status.
Aim for maximum impact. Don’t just strive to do less harm (like reducing the number of flights you take); instead, actively seek to do more good.
Prioritize relentlessly by addressing significant, severely overlooked, and solvable problems.
An example of addressing grid congestion illustrates a significant issue. This problem is extensive yet solvable, and by identifying overlooked aspects, individuals can make a substantial impact.
More than just a career
The School for Moral Ambition shows that impact is possible in various ways:
Through a high-impact career.
By donating to organizations that make a difference.
Volunteering with effective organizations.
Strengthening the movement and creating your own network.
Initiate change from within, based on a robust Theory of Change.
The key question to ask yourself is: What problem do I want to solve? Is it significant, feasible, and overlooked? What strategy will I use to address it?
Your Moral Ambition!
We are eager to hear your solution. Together, we can strive for a better world where talent addresses the issues that truly matter. Let’s take action now rather than waiting any longer.
