The world is big. Why just becoming a chicken farmer?

The world is asking for more education. Wherever you go, the call for more, for a better education is obvious. Be it in the developed or in the developing world. But what often is underestimated is that we do not need just education, but diversity of education for ensuring economic growth and change making people….

Luxury and social change in Zermatt – dare to care

Zermatt, Switzerland. Sounds luxurious. Somehow a destination for a few people at the top of the pyramid. Impressive mountains that seem to be accessible just for a few people – too far away for all those living in poverty. But in these days Zermatt is also the location of changemakers, of people who want to…

Change the world – on the streets working with kids

During the Ashoka changemaker week in Paris last week there was one particular social entrepreneur that still remains in my mind. He gave a short intro during one speaker session. His name is Arnoud Raskin, Founder of Mobile Schools and Streetwize. Mobile Schools develops innovative education programs that enhance the qualities of resourcefulness that underprivileged…

Change the world: Give women a mobile!

Empowering women and helping them to improve their condition can lead to enormous social progress. Often women start their own business if they get an opportunity, e.g. via a micro credit. I have met some of them and it is astonishing to see how this changed their lives: they invest in activities that ensure a…

Twoandahalfweeks in India – an old tribal ladies’ joke

During a visit of a tribal village close to the silent valley national park in Tamil Nadu we’re welcome in a very friendly and traditional way. Most of the village people are gathered in the Community room and expect us. When we arrive, the chairs are prepared for sitting together and tea is offered. We…

Social and business – the two worlds are still there. We need the big vision!

The two worlds are still there. Business thinks business and social is social. Simply said. But what about the huge trend, this trendy movement becoming big and bigger which is called “Social entrepreneurship”? Yes, that’s interesting to both organization types. People like it. Just the idea to fulfill society’s needs and to combine it with…

Chairs on the wings – how crazy thinking changes the world

Have you ever heard about Design thinking or how the new generation of planes could benefit from it? That’s a crazy approach, but more than helpful. Often it is difficult to put directly into words the needs for change, or re-inventing and developing further something that already exists and we are all get used to…

How ageing is seen in the world

HOW AN AGEING POPULATION WILL CHANGE THE WORLD – BBC NEWS That is the title of a very interesting short video. Did you know that Japan is the country no.1 when it comes to ageing? That Asia and Europe are much more concerned about it than USA? But there is a chance to see it…