NBSV 204: Athlete. Advocate. Changemaker. Candace Burton on building a global plant-based future
- Karina Inkster
- Aug 19
- 2 min read
Updated: Oct 9
From rowing as part of the first all-Black women’s 8 at the world’s largest regatta, to helping steer over $8 million in grants that fuel plant-based change, Candace brings the same grit from the boat to her work in philanthropy.
We dive into her journey to veganism while training as an athlete, the lessons she’s carried from sports into leadership, and how Thrive Philanthropy is funding a just, global plant-based food system—supporting everything from women-led tofu production in Uganda to vegan restaurant weeks and school lunch programs.
We also explore what it means to make a difference beyond what’s on your plate, and how you can support systemic change in food systems worldwide.
Important topics we discussed:
>> How Candace supports food security organizations in the Greater Boston area.
>> Her role on the board of Thrive Philanthropy, an organization funding alternatives to animal agriculture in 80 countries with up to 100 grants a year.
>> How Candace transitioned from eating meat to being plant-based—starting with Lent, experimenting in college, and eventually going fully vegan at home.
Connect with Candace:
>> Candace's website and Instagram page
Episode transcript:
Access a transcript of the episode here.
Share your thoughts:
>> Comment on the episode's Facebook post.
>> Leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts. Your reviews really help, and I read each one!
Subscribe to the show:
>> Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Spotify.
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