This is the first overseas International conference I have attended since 1000 Cranes started almost five years ago, and what an eye opening experience it has been. Most conferences I've attended have been in Canada or the States which tend to be very North American centric. In this case, it's been refreshing to see examples of Social Enterprises from around the world.
Today, I had an opportunity hear inspiring keynote speeches about organizations in Scotland, Australia, Egypt, Ghana, Denmark regarding:
- The Role of Government in Supporting Social Enterprise
- Funding Social Enterprise
- Tackling Poverty through Social Enterprise
- Changing Societies through Innovative Social Enterprise
There was also plenty of time to network with a variety of people from Brazil, Wales, England, and of course, those from North America in Canada and the United States.
I was particularly inspired by the distinct differences between what is allowed in various countries. Some were farther along than others even though they may share borders.
It was also poignant to see how much personal investment was done by individuals. What I love about the work I do in the nonprofit organization (NPO) and nongovernmental (NGO) sectors is that these organizations are so driven by their respective missions.
Whether it's improving the lives of families in Egypt through waste management contracts or providing autistic people with a way to earn a living in Denmark or providing Ghana farmers through Kuapa Kokoo a 45% share of a chocolate social enterprise, all of these organizations thrive because they are vehemently passionate about the mission of the organizations they support.
What could you do to become vehemently passionate about what you do?
What social enterprises embody your country and promote a better life for its citizens?
Where do you see the next wave of growth occuring in this space?
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