It was so amazing to hear Muhammad Yunus speak at St James in Piccadilly last weekend. We often look to the past for our heroes but I believe firmly that Yunus is a truely great man. The reasons why I admire him so much are many - here are just a few:
- He is an inspired and imaginative thinker - Yunus thinks differently about problems which are often thought to be too big or too difficult to tackle... like poverty and business.
- He never gives up. Despite the hurdles and the difficulties of changing attitudes he persevers . . . like changing the way banking is conducted for the benefit of everyone - particularly the poor.
- He believes in the innate goodness and abilities of all human beings. Despite a lack of literacy Muhammad Yunus has consistenty believed in the abilities of the poor, even professional beggars. Grameen Bank has lent money to literally thousands of begggars, who now run their own small enterprises.
- He is a fantastic human being by every conceivable measure.
For more please read about The Elders or watch this interview.
"Capitalism takes a narrow view of human nature, assuming that people are one-dimensional beings concerned only with the pursuit of maximum profit. The concept of the free market, as generally understood, is based on this one-dimensional human being." Creating a World Without Poverty - Muhammad Yunus.
Thank you to all the organisers ... especially Sabine McNeill for her warmth and Chris Macrae for his determination.
I agree. I think the field of 'design' badly needs a thorough overhaul of heroes and icons - to include people like Yunus, Penalosa, Margrit Kennedy and others who truly embody the values and creativity that we need for our times.
Posted by: Arvind | February 23, 2008 at 06:27 AM
Very true ... And there are also people around us everyday who need to be appreciated too. Thanks Arvind for leaving your comment. Hope your plans both in and out of India are coming along well. :)
Posted by: Tessy | February 23, 2008 at 10:17 AM