Beyond Traditional Development Projects: A Conversation with DT Global & Social Impact by Moderator Paawani Tewari
Earlier this semester, the Global Human Development program hosted an engaging discussion featuring Shiro Gnanaselvam, President and CEO of Social Impact, and Sloan Mann, President of DT Global. The event provided a thought-provoking exploration of the future of development and highlighted non-traditional career paths for young professionals in the field.
Both DT Global and Social Impact have strong ties to our program and the School of Foreign Service (SFS) more broadly. Sloan Mann, a former Hoya from the Master of Science in Foreign Service (MSFS) program, now leads DT Global, an organization that partners with communities, governments, and the private sector to deliver innovative solutions addressing the world’s most pressing challenges. From crisis response and stabilization efforts to economic development, governance, and environmental sustainability, DT Global implements cutting-edge solutions across six key development areas: Conflict Prevention, Stabilization & Transition, Economic Growth & Trade, Environment & Infrastructure, Governance, and Human Development.
Social Impact (SI), on the other hand, is a management consulting firm specializing in monitoring, evaluation, strategic planning, and capacity building to enhance development effectiveness. By providing consulting, technical assistance, and training services to government agencies, NGOs, and foundations, SI helps strengthen organizational performance, streamline operations, and optimize impact through management assessments and business process reengineering. SI’s work spans multiple sectors, tackling issues such as poverty alleviation, health and education improvements, democratic governance, economic growth, and environmental protection.
A key theme that emerged from the conversation was the multifaceted nature of development work. While governments, foundations, and NGOs have traditionally played dominant roles in addressing global challenges, the private sector is increasingly becoming a crucial player in this space. SI has revolutionized impact evaluation methodologies, ensuring that development programs worldwide are more accountable, and results driven. Meanwhile, DT Global, initially focused on conflict sensitivity and training programs, is expanding its reach. The recent launch of its commercial advisory arm underscores this evolution, allowing private companies interested in development to receive expert consultation and craft their own impactful programs.
As a moderator of the panel and a student, one of the most insightful aspects of the discussion was the emphasis on essential skills for aspiring development professionals. Beyond possessing empathy and an eagerness to learn, it is critical to be well-prepared for fieldwork, ensuring personal safety and readiness for unforeseen emergencies. The speakers highlighted the growing importance of AI in enhancing development work and stressed the value of strong writing skills. Sloan particularly underscored the need for clear and concise communication, as the ability to distill complex research into actionable insights for decision-makers is a crucial competency.
Both Sloan and Shiro began their careers far removed from the development sector, yet they have built impactful legacies by working with and for communities worldwide. Their journeys serve as an inspiring model for students navigating their own career paths. The biggest takeaway? There is no single way to contribute to development—you must explore opportunities that align with your interests, remain adaptable, and continue building upon your passions to create meaningful change.
