161 - Maurice Bloem

This podcast interview between John Pinna and Maurice Bloem of the Joint Learning Initiative (JLI) on Faith and Local Communities explores the JLI's unique approach to leveraging data and evidence for just and sustainable development. Bloem emphasizes the importance of going beyond traditional top-down models and incorporating local wisdom and diverse perspectives, including what he calls the "Ducky" framework for growth and collaboration. The conversation highlights the critical role of faith-based organizations in development due to their long-term community relationships and understanding of faith as a core aspect of identity, while also addressing the challenge of navigating bias and promoting genuine listening and dialogue in an increasingly polarized world. Maurice A. Bloem is the President and CEO of the Joint Learning Initiative on Faith and Local Communities (JLI), where he leads the organization through a time of strategic transformation. With more than three decades of experience in humanitarian assistance and development, he brings a deep global perspective rooted in local realities to his leadership. Before joining JLI in August 2023, Maurice served in multiple senior roles at Church World Service (CWS), including Executive Vice President and Chief Sustainability and Impact Officer. He founded the CWS Innovation Hub and led the CWS Faith and Partnership Hub. As CWS’s representative to the United Nations, he championed faith engagement in global policy processes, advancing action on the Sustainable Development Goals, climate justice, and equitable partnerships. Earlier, he directed CWS’s work in Indonesia and Timor-Leste, coordinating disaster response efforts after the 2004 tsunami and 2005 earthquakes. Originally from the Netherlands, Maurice holds a master’s degree in cultural anthropology from Leiden University. He currently serves on the board of Growing Hope Globally and is a member of the Advisory Council for the Center for Ecumenical and Interreligious Engagement at Seattle University. Maurice is also the founder and host of the Walk Talk Listen podcast, a platform for deep conversations about connection, sustainable development, and meaningful change. Since 2012, he has walked 100 miles annually to raise awareness and funds to end hunger, poverty, and injustice—a tradition that continues today. Outside of work, he enjoys long walks in nature, playing the drums and ukulele, reading, watching soccer, and spending time with his children, who live across the world.