One Young World

A little bit further from home, but in keeping with our post last week, buzz this week is focused on One Young World, a summit that kicked off today in London.  One Young World is a gathering of youthful (25 years or younger) leaders meant to represent each of the countries of the world.  Over a thousand representatives from over one hundred countries will gather to and address such global crises as climate change, poverty and economic justice.

If this sounds nice and all, but perhaps a tad on the dreamy-eyed and unrealistic side, consider some of the heavy-hitters that are leading the discussion: 3 Nobel Laureates to start.  Kofi Annan, former Secretary-General of the UN, Desmond Tutu, activist and humanitarian, Muhammad Yunus, founder of Grameen Bank and microfinance.  Many other leaders within the humanitarian, political, and social enterprise sectors will be speaking with the delegates.  While it may be unlikely that any world-shaking ideas will be formulated over the course of the 3 day event, the delegates aim to gather intellectual capital and resources for creating effective social programs/businesses upon their return home.

Ultimately, One Young World hopes not only to be a forum for reform, but also to establish a network of active and talented young individuals across the globe.  It is hoped that this program may be useful in empowering the leaders of tomorrow, and that these individuals can be collected in their efforts.  And when a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens come together….  Well, you know the rest…

Skoll Global Threats Fund Launches Website

The Skoll Global Threats Fund website has launched.  The organization seeks to combat large scale environmental and social threats, “the things that could bring the world to its knees”, including global warming, water scarcity, and nuclear proliferation.  Impressively, the organization staffs top names in social entrepreneurship, including Jeff Skoll and Larry Brilliant.