“We cannot afford to be protectionist.” 
These were the words of Jordan’s Queen Rania, as she spoke Thursday at the 8th Annual Global Philanthropy Forum Conference in Washington, D.C.
The Queen urged global citizens to continue giving and helping their fellow human beings despite the global economic downturn.
‘The current economic crisis is wreaking havoc on development… But this conference itself is a powerful antidote to tough times,” she said.
After a brief pause of reflection, Queen Rania asked the audience a crucial question that lies at the very core of any effective global development debate: “How do we know when philanthropy is making a positive difference?”
To make her point, the Queen referred to a jar of jam as inspiration, and went on to tell the story of Leila.
Leila is from a poor neighborhood in Amman, Jordan’s capital, and attends one of Queen Rania’s Madrasati schools.
One day, Leila was asked to come up with an idea for healthy breakfasts for her classmates. Gathering uneaten apples from them, Leila and her mother began making apple jam and sold them in local markets. All proceeds went back to Leila’s school.
Rania commented,”philanthropy means giving bold thinkers like Leila the chance to lift their whole community and to realize the power within themselves to change things for the better.
“When it comes to education, the power of philanthropy can be even bigger – not just within communities and countries but among them, stitching together humanity’s frayed seams, especially at a time of global turmoil.
“Education is not only a problem, but also a solution – because when we look at the obstacles we face, education can help us overcome them all.”
Rania also thanked participants for taking the time to attend the annual conference, which also celebrates Earth Day.
She added: “All of you here, through your commitment and compassion, are extending lifelines of hope. And more than that, you’re tilling the soil from which social renewal can bloom.”
Those in attendance at the forum included donors, social investor and other philanthropists who are committed to tackling education, poverty and health issues.
Recent Comments