Achieving Social Change from Within

After a brief description of the inequality problem, my personal background and the broader context, the account focuses on the philosophical and moral groundings rather than on achievements. It weaves together four maxims that have shaped my professional and personal life. They include (1) Sit on the ground and talk to people; that’s the most important thing; (2) A heightened awareness combined with an inner quiet are among the main qualities any professional should possess; (3) Never for the sake of peace and quiet deny your convictions; and (4) Money Changing Hands versus Ideas Changing Minds. They are quotes from Dag Hammarskjöld, a figure who inspires me immensely. The importance of learning, unlearning, and relearning is repeatedly emphasised, as well as the role luck and coincidence play in one’s life journey. A final quote from Hammarskjöld is mentioned for those who operate in a world that is fast-paced, hyper-connected and burnout-afflicted.