Thursday 8 October 2009 was indeed a very special evening at the National Museum of Singapore. Qi Global brought six inspiring individuals to share the work they carry out for social and environmental progress in Asia.

Qi Global founder, Paul Coleman, and Mette Kristine Oustrup started this social enterprise to make a positive contribution, using all the skills they possess. They hope that their mission, “human progress in harmony with nature”, will inspire people to think and act more progressively towards building a decent future for the world.

Over 200 guests were privileged to view the eco-friendly products displayed at the event; orders of those products reached over $5,000 and included eight Magno radios (designed by Singgih Susilo Kartono, one of the six speakers).

In addition, money was raised for the Masarang Foundation as guests got the chance to spend $50 on a rainforest raffle ticket to buy piece of land in Borneo: by the end of the event, a total of 122 plots had been adopted for this rainforest which is part of the Samboja Lestari Project, led by Dr. Willie Smits.

“This is such a thought-provoking evening. What touched me most was how each of them spoke simply about the work they have undertaken, which clearly has taken more vision, commitment and strength than sometimes seems humanly possible,” said Anita Kapoor who was the host for the evening.

Audience member Aishah Omar reflected on the evening confessing “My husband and I went away feeling very inspired after listening to the 6 speakers and perhaps, even slightly embarrassed for not doing more for the planet in our own way.”

Indeed, this event showcased the thinking and hard work behind the innovation, values and brand ethos of each speaker and one could hardly leave without feeling inspired.

ASIAN Geographic Society speaks to these six inspiring individuals. Read More..