Providing support to philanthropists, organizations, high net worth individuals and governments looking to change the world, Sam Pitroda, the founding father of Indian telecoms, launched Legacy Institute International.
The global think tank and incubator consists of a community of CEOs, business owners, experts and legacy builders who aim to bring together like-minded people to change the world. The mission of the organization is to build an enduring legacy through a massive impact on society, an industry, a country or even internationally. The global focus of Mr. Pitroda’s institute is based on issues identified by the United Nations and local communities as the most challenging issues faced by humanity – and exploring how they could be resolved.
Mr. Pitroda, the respected telecoms inventor, says, “Bearing in mind the imbalances in the current international situation, where there is no clarity as to where or how to move forward. Now we need new economic models focused on inclusion, employment, environment, education, health and peace and prosperity for all.”
The former advisor to the late Prime Minister of India, Rajiv Gandhi, and Dr. Manmohan Singh, Mr Pitroda says he is keen to watch the how like-minded people collaborate and co-operate to start a global movement on legacy, whether at local, national or international level. He adds, “Legacy Institute International is particularly interested to work with people who have the desire to change things on a large scale. People who have the generosity and also the courage to help others to move forward.”
Along with successful philanthropists and entrepreneurs, the Legacy Institute will be working with world leaders as well. Policy-maker and entrepreneur himself, Mr. Pitroda believes that working with experienced successful people who know what is required, how to execute it and how the world works is the way to make a change in the world. People who say, “I know how it works. I know how to do it, I have done it before. And I want to change things.”
Steven Sonsino, CEO of Legacy Institute International, has asked potential legacy builders “Is your best work behind you or is it ahead of you?” He believes that if one’s best work is yet to come, then it needs to be more than just ‘giving’, they need to be ‘doing’. He says, “Doing it with a group of people who are as passionate as you and who know how the thorniest issues around us get solved.”
Legacy Institute initiatives already include a legacy development program for entrepreneurs and philanthropists, and advisory programs for firms and governments. The institute is also hosting an online summit for philanthropists, foundations, family offices and their advisers, where more than a dozen experts will be speaking on various topics related to Legacy development.
Mr. Pitroda has faith that a committed group of people that have access to resources and possess the talent to tackle major national and international issues can work together with the Institute to find the most effective solutions for both – short-term and long-term goals. He believes we need a legacy ‘movement’ and has shared a video message discussing it.
