Every day, AIESEC members from across our network of over 107
countries, are demonstrating how they are active leaders making a positive contribution to their
society. The efforts and achievements of the top talent represented across our membership of over
38,000 are often covered by the mass media across the world. This space is intended to be a forum
for that coverage, serving as examples of how AIESEC members are truly the leaders of tomorrow.
The Topic of the Century through the eyes of tomorrow's leaders from over
120 countries.
ROTTERDAM, The Netherlands (December 2, 2009) Climate change is the greatest threat of all, and the problem is manmade. That is the opinion
of “tomorrow’s leaders”, more than 3,000 university students and young professionals in 122
countries. However, while almost all of them are very concerned about climate change, not so many
feel engaged in climate change issues.
Next week today’s leaders will meet in Copenhagen to determine how to deal with future
climate change challenges. Ultimately their success depends on the leaders of tomorrow. Young
people’s views on climate change are key to understanding and shaping the future.
Kairos Future, the international futures research and strategy development firm, and
AIESEC, the world’s largest youth-run organization, surveyed global youth in November 2009 to find
out what tomorrow’s leaders really think.
Everyone should get more involved
– Young people are the leaders of today who will
deliver on the promise of tomorrow. Let’s Act NOW!, commented Aman Jain, President of AIESEC.
Three out of four respondents feel that people and organizations who should do something
about climate change are not doing enough. Nine out of ten respondents think that companies should
take greater responsibility to limit climate change. They also think that everyone needs to
contribute to solving the issue, but only 20% describe themselves as very engaged in climate change
issues.
There is no equal sign between attitudes and behavior.
–
There is a tendency towards “Somebodyelseism”, someone else is expected to take
action. Evidently fears and convictions do not automatically transform into action, says Mats
Lindgren, CEO and founder of Kairos Future, and a former environmental researcher. They believe
that politics and business have the power to act, and that they are obliged to do
that.
More than six out of ten believe that
the solution to climate change is political rather than technological.
Global north should deal with problems at home first
The notion of “climate debt” is often discussed in
relation to climate change, whereby the Global North is expected to repay their ecological debt to
the Global South, subsequent to a long history of over-exploitation and excessive consumption. It
can be argued that the greatest marginal effect is achieved by investing in developing nations,
where relatively small changes can have comparatively large impact on the environment. However, the
majority of survey respondents does not share that view.
– The young people in our survey lean heavily towards the opposite perspective, that
rich countries should deal with environmental problems in their own countries before
focusing on environmental problems in the developing world, says Anna Kiefer, Project
manager of the climate change survey and Director of Kairos Future International.
There are not any big differences in viewpoint between young in the Global North and the
Global South in this regard.
Friends determine engagement in climate change
So what would make tomorrow’s leaders globally engage more in climate change? Well, lack of
money, time and information are not the main obstacles to involvement in climate change issues.
– Tomorrow’s leaders would be more engaged if people around them got involved, says Anna
Kiefer. It seems to be very important what your friends do and who sets an example.
In many countries, the absence of necessary infrastructure to support a climate smart
living leaves people without options. It is not up to them if they choose public
transportation or not, because it simply does not exist. Yet, the majority of actions taken even in
the western world constitute discussions and intellectual involvement.
The recipe for saving the planet is a social act more than anything. Trust in science to
save the world is vanishing, climate and seasons are more important issues than ever and opinions
change with the change of seasons; people adapt to politicians and people around them. The Age of
Reason is abandoned and we find ourselves in the Age of Season.
Further revelations…
Further analysis and statistics will be revealed at a
youth event at COP15 on the afternoon of December 11th hosted by PlanetCall (www.planetcall.org).
About the survey
Kairos Future, the international research and
consulting firm dealing with futures research and strategy development, together with AIESEC, the
world’s largest youth-run organization, have surveyed young people around the world about their
views on climate change. Data was collected in the month of November 2009.
The questionnaire was distributed in English via e-mail and AIESEC web pages to AIESEC
members globally. We have received 3,119 replies (48% women, 52% men) from 122 countries. Most of
the respondents in the survey are students (75%) in the fields of economy, commerce, social
sciences and technology. 83% of them were born in 1985 or later (most of them around 1988), 17%
were born in 1984 or earlier. A majority of them are planning on becoming managers in the future
(56% “yes definitely”, 32% “maybe”).
Further information
For further information or to obtain a free report
with survey results, please contact:
Anna Kiefer, Project Manager of the Climate Change survey and Director Kairos Future
International E-mail: anna.kiefer@kairosfuture.com
Tel: +46 70 547 25 02
www.kairosfuture.com Carolyn Rush, Vice President AIESEC International E-mail: carolynr@ai.aiesec.org
Tel: +31 10 443 4383
www.aiesec.org
AIESEC on Climate Change:
Please find a detailed press kit on AIESEC's Climate Change activities
here.
ROTTERDAM, The Netherlands (November 23,
2009)
Tomorrow’s leaders are concerned about climate
change, but not committed. With 3,000 replies from students and recent graduates in 122 countries
we know what views tomorrow’s leaders have of climate change!
International futures research and consulting firm Kairos Future has in collaboration with
the world’s largest youth-run organization, AIESEC International, conducted a survey asking young
people around the world about their views on climate change. Data collection has just been
finalized and the results from this unique and our most global survey ever, will be presented on 2
December 2009.
Global warming and climate change dominate public debate worldwide and the world is closely
following the preparations and outcome of the UN Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen in
December 2009. Future generations will be the ones who will deal with the consequences. Are they
prepared?
For further information please contact:
Carolyn Rush, Vice President AIESEC International
E-mail: carolynr[at]ai.aiesec.org
Tel: +31 10 443 4383
Further information on AIESEC is available at
www.aiesec.org
Further information on Kairos Future is available at
www.kairosfuture.com
.........................................................................................................................................................................................................
AIESEC International names Alcatel-Lucent 2009 Partner of the Year.
ROTTERDAM, The Netherlands (November 18, 2009) —
AIESEC International, the largest student-driven
organization in the world, named Alcatel-Lucent as its best partner of the year for
2009. AIESEC noted Alcatel-Lucent’s increased level of involvement and support for
AIESEC’s leadership development initiatives, particularly in emerging countries as well as programs
to increase employee engagement with the AIESEC program.
AIESEC will formally present the award to Claire Pedini, Executive Vice President for Human
Resources, at a ceremony at the company’s global headquarters in Paris on November 19th.
“AIESEC is committed to providing students with life-changing experiences that will help
them become future leaders focused on bringing about positive change” said Aman Jain, President of
AIESEC International. “Alcatel-Lucent has been a valued member of our program for six years.
We are proud to be able to recognize them for the work they have done to help these talented
students and we appreciate how they share our values and their commitment to helping ward this
partnership.”
During its six year association with AIESEC, the company has provided internship
opportunities to more than 170 students giving them a platform from which they have been able to
launch their own careers. About 14 percent of these interns returned to Alcatel-Lucent as
full time employees. In 2009 alone, Alcatel-Lucent offered internships to 45 students, who
worked in company offices in France, Belgium, the UK, Netherlands, Egypt, India, the United Arab
Emirate and Singapore. They worked in a variety of departments including Communications,
Sales, Human Resources, Marketing, Finance, Organization Development and HRIS, handling assignments
that ranged from Pre-Sales Engineer and Inoperability Test Manager to Business Analyst of Global HR
Process & Solutions and Marketing for North Europe.
“Alcatel-Lucent benefited from the talent, energy and enthusiasm the AIESEC students brought
to the job every day, just as the students gained from interacting with the experienced and
talented Alcatel-Lucent employees they worked with. This program gave the students the
opportunity to get actual experience in working for a global, high-tech company and our employees
had the chance to be with some avid users of the communications technologies Alcatel-Lucent is
helping develop,” said Claire Pedini, Executive Vice President Human Resources. “We are
interested in helping students from around the world develop their talent, in part because we
depend on innovation to develop new technologies and ideas but also because we view this as part of
our responsibility as a good corporate citizen. We appreciate AIESEC's recognition of our
work with them and look forward to continue working with them in the future.”
Further information on AIESEC is available at
www.aiesec.org
World's Largest Youth-Run Organisation joins with Robert Swan to Debate
Climate Change on the Road to COP-15.
ROTTERDAM, The Netherlands (November 09, 2009) —
Today, AIESEC joins 2041 to celebrate the homecoming
of the Voyage for Cleaner Energy yacht. Robert Swan, OBE will join in discussion with Aman Jain,
president of AIESEC International to further explore the need for youth education and action around
climate change. Panelists also include Maayke Damen, the first youth representative in the Dutch
delegation for the UN; Eric van Eerdenburg, director and initiator of the popular annual festival
Lowlands and Prof. Wouter van Dieren, President, IMSA Amsterdam. The panel discussion will take
place from 10:00 to 11:30 am at the Rotterdam Cruise Terminal.
Robert Swan states “To celebrate the return of our brave yacht '2041' after 10 years on 'The
Voyage for Cleaner Energy', I look forward to debating with the leaders of tomorrow and seeing
2041's inspiration drive the young people of The Netherlands into action to save our planet”.
“Young people are the leaders of today who will deliver on the promise of tomorrow. Lets Act
NOW!” commented Aman Jain, President of AIESEC. One third of 2041’s most recent Inspire
Antarctic Expeditions were AIESEC members from China, Brazil, Germany, South Africa, Australia,
Denmark, Ecuador, Sweden and India.
Both AIESEC and 2041 are hopeful that today’s youth will raise their voices as we head
towards important negotiations at COP15.
AIESEC is the world’s largest youth-run organization,
present in 107 countries around the world. AIESEC’s international platform enables young people to
explore and develop their leadership potential for them to have a positive impact in society.
2041 was founded by polar explorer, environmental leader and
public speaker Robert Swan, OBE to inform, engage and inspire the next generation of leaders to
take action for a more sustainable world. Swan has dedicated his life to the preservation of
Antarctica by the promotion of recycling, renewable energy and sustainability to combat the effects
of climate change.
Further information on AIESEC is available at
www.aiesec.org
Further information on 2041 is available at
www.2041.com
AIESEC Partners with One Young World to Attract Future Global Leaders to World’1
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 sLargest Youth Leadership
Summit
550 Young Leaders from Every Continent Invited to Join One Young World
Initiative Endorsed by Kofi Annan, Desmond Tutu, Bob Geldof and
more
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (August 26, 2009) —
Today 550 young leaders from 107 countries were
invited to join the One Young World initiative. One Young World (www.OneYoungWorld.com) is a global nonprofit
organization that serves as a platform to raise the voice of the next generation of world leaders
on global issues. It has commenced global outreach to bring together 1500 young leaders from
192 countries. AIESEC, the world’s largest youth-run organization, is now partnering with One
Young World to help create the world’s largest youth leadership summit to be hosted in London, UK
on February 8-10, 2010. The partnership launch was held at the Palace of the Golden Horses
hotel in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. One Young World is inviting AIESEC members from each of the
organization’s 107 member countries to serve as delegates to the 2010 inaugural summit.
In addition to AIESEC International, the world’s largest social networks and online
communities are now helping to spread the One Young World message to millions of people around the
world. Facebook, YouTube, WAYN, BraveNewTalent and Twitter are also being used to engage with
potential delegates and those interested in the aims of the initiative. Adults in their 20’s
interested in becoming delegates to the One Young World Inaugural Summit in February 2010 should
visit
http://apps.facebook.com/oywcandidates/ to
upload their submission videos.
This 'user generated' leadership programme is the first of its kind and shows how social
media can be deployed as an instrument for positive change.
"Social media channels are the single most effective route to reaching the next generation’s
future global leaders,” commented Lucian Tarnowski, CEO of BraveNewTalent.com, One Young World’s
delegate outreach partner who was present to announce the AIESEC partnership. “Our partnership with
AIESEC demonstrates the power of this medium as a way of engaging youth in almost every country in
the world. This is like a global search for 1500 young Obamas.”
Aman Jain, President of AIESEC International added, “Given the magnitude and scope of
conversations at One Young World, AIESEC is a strategic partner to further our cause with youth
leaders around the world.”
Through the usage of AIESEC’s presence on various social media channels such as Youtube,
Twitter and the AIESEC blog, the Forum will engage over 10,000 young people in live discussions.
One Young World will also be attended by current world leaders, including One Young World
Counsellors Kofi Annan, Archbishop Desmond Tutu and Bob Geldof. The One Young World Annual
Summit will be a yearly global gathering of future leaders that is truly representative of the
world’s population – weighted for the first time ever to reflect the most populated regions and
countries, and not necessarily the richest or most politically influential.
Counsellor Bob Geldof commented, “This One Young World idea says surely there’s a way we can
get ahead of the game and plot the way we would like it to be, rather than reacting to the events
that happen to us.”
One Young World is open to young leaders born since 1984 from every country in the
world. They will come together to have a combined voice around the Environment, Politics,
Business, Healthcare, Media and Interfaith Dialogue.
“We want to see this world a different kind of world,” said Archbishop Desmond Tutu, One
Young World Counsellor. “We want to see a peaceful world, a more compassionate world, a caring
world; and so we appeal to you, please send the best that you have who will be the next generation
of leaders.”
What
is the stand of today’s youth in shaping the world that they will one day lead?
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (August 25th, 2009) —
This the question over 500 young leaders from 107 countries will
address during the first ever
Global Youth to Business
Forum(http://aiesec.org/cms/aiesec/Y2B/Home/index.html), thanks to AIESEC; the world’s largest
youth-run organization. The Forum will be the pinnacle event of AIESEC’s annual International
Congress run from August 22nd to 31st at the
Palace of the Golden Horses hotel
(http://www.palaceofthegoldenhorses.com.my/) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. 38,000 virtual participants
will join over 500 delegates present at the conference to engage in dynamic dialogues with
corporate leaders from 5 continents. These discussions will harvest a forward-thinking global youth
stand on the topics Entrepreneurship in the Crisis, Climate Change & Sustainability and Labor
Mobility & Diversity.
Through the usage of AIESEC’s presence on various social media channels such as
Twitter,
Youtube
and
the AIESEC blog
(http://theaiesecblog.wordpress.com/). the Forum will engage over 10,000 young people in live
discussions. The output from the event will be presented to key global policy organizations and
distributed to the public via www.aiesec.org.
The day will culminate in an open panel discussion facilitated by corporate leaders where
all participants are given the opportunity to have their voices heard. The discussions on
Entrepreneurship in the Crisis, Climate Change & Sustainability and Labor Mobility &
Diversity will bring together over 500 delegates, 38,000 virtual participants and 50 corporate
leaders, an unmatched confluence of individuals to declare the truly global youth stand we need to
shape the world.
Highlighted speakers include:
• Irene Boey, Asia Women Business Network
• Lucian Tarnowski, Brave New Talent/One Young World
• Sip Chon Liew, Canon Malaysia
• Mark Heasyman, Diverstiy@Work
• Irene Millar, EcoLeadership Training
• Vishen Lakhiani, Mindvalley
• Andrew Fiddaman, Prince’s Youth Business International
• Jane Leu, Upwardly Global
• Aakash Sethi, QUEST Alliance
Corporate representatives from the following companies will be
involved throughout the day:
• Artemisia International
• Anheuser-Busch InBev
• Alcatel-Lucent
• Cadbury
• Deutsche Post DHL
• Electrolux
• Ingersoll Rand
• Instituto de Empresa
• PricewaterhouseCoopers
• Standard Chartered Bank
• Tata Consultancy Services
• UBS
• Unilever
50% OF YOUNG PEOPLE ADMIT THEY DON’T KNOW ENOUGH ABOUT HIV AND
AIDS
Global survey finds low level of knowledge on HIV and AIDS
amongst educated youths
London,
12 August 2009 –
According to the results of a global youth survey launched today by
Standard Chartered and AIESEC International, the world’s largest student organisation, although84
per cent of young people believe the HIV and AIDS epidemic remains one of the great challenges of
our time, almost 50 per cent have a dangerously low knowledge about the killer virus.
Over a third don’t think condoms are very effective in preventing sexual transmission and
nearly a quarter admitted they would not always use a condom when having sex. This could explain
why almost half of the world’s new HIV infections occur among 15 to 24 year olds according to the
latest UNAIDS statistics, largely as a result of unprotected sexual activity.
Over 1,500 members of AIESEC International responded to the survey, spanning 99
countries. Whilst two thirds of them view HIV and AIDS as a major problem in their own
countries, despite concerted efforts by health agencies to educate younger generations across the
world, a third feel that there is little information available to them.
When asked where they would turn to for information on HIV and AIDS, the internet was
overwhelmingly cited as the first port of call. Over 94 per cent said they would go online ahead of
talking to health professionals (61 per cent) and friends (59 per cent) or family members (25 per
cent).
The news comes as Standard Chartered launches the beta version of www.vir.us – a
first-of-its-kind animated website aimed at young people - to raise awareness and provide
information about HIV and AIDS in a fresh, entertaining approach. This is a new element of Standard
Chartered’s prevention-focused HIV education programme, Living with HIV, developed in partnership
with leading experts from around the globe. Standard Chartered has also pledged to the
Clinton Global Initiative to educate one million people on HIV and AIDS by 2010.
Vanessa Green, Group Head, Living with HIV at Standard Chartered said: “In the absence of a
cure or vaccine, the only hope of tackling HIV is to educate people on how to avoid contracting the
virus in the first place – or passing it on if they are HIV+. This survey shows that there is still
a huge job to be done in educating the next generation, giving them the facts which will enable
them to make safe lifestyle choices. The starting point is providing them with reliable and
practical information in an accessible way, which overcomes the taboos and stigma around sexual
health that compound ignorance.
“ This survey shows there is a clear need for a free online resource which targets young
people and can teach them the facts around HIV and AIDS in an engaging and fun way, whilst
dispelling the myths. Our www.vir.us website was recently launched to supplement our face-to-face
peer education programme which we run in partnership with AIESEC to reach a greater number of young
people.”
“AIESEC has been working in partnership with Standard Chartered’s Living with HIV programme
for the past 5 years”, said Alexa Mabonga, Global External Relations Manager at AIESEC
International. “To date, we have educated over 125,000 young adults in 20 different countries
through peer-to-peer education initiatives. Myths, orthodoxy and a reluctance to learn the basic
facts about the virus are some of the biggest hurdles our HIV trainers face on a daily basis.
Running the programme on the ground, we have found that it has had a real impact and helped people
gain a stronger understanding of the issue.”
- Ends-
For further press
information contact:
Ed Grattan / Veronica Rossini
Euro RSCG Biss Lancaster
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7467 9200
Email: blsc@bisslancaster.com
Young leaders team up with business to discuss the future for entrepreneurship, diversity
and sustainability
ROTTERDAM – (25th June, 2009
) -
Kuala Lumpur will host 600 young people from over 100 countries on
the 25th of August to participate in the
AIESEC Global Youth to Business forum.
Convened by the world’s largest youth-run organisation, the forum
will bring together business leaders and young people from the 107 countries in which AIESEC is
present to discuss pressing topics for the next generation, including entrepreneurship, diversity
and climate change.
The
AIESEC Global Youth to Business forum
will bring together youth and representatives of responsible business
through 3 parallel forum tracks dedicated to discussing the core topics of entrepreneurship,
diversity and climate change. With each forum track attended by over 200 preselected youth and
20-40 partner organisations, the
Global Youth to Business forum.
will be a dynamic space for forward-thinking debate. Taking the
conversation global, the forum seeks to involve a further 10,000 young people through online spaces
currently active on
Facebook,Twitter and
Youtube.
The specific agenda of the
AIESEC Global Youth to Business forum.
will be created in collaboration with the partners of the forum; a
partnership opportunity open to organisations worldwide who are interested to gather global youth
opinion from diverse cultures on the core topics of conversation.
Aman Jain, the President of AIESEC International in 2009/2010, believes the
Global Youth to Business forum
is a unique opportunity for businesses to take a leading role in
driving responsible change.
“The young people we will convene are the leaders of today who need to act on the promise of
tomorrow, and this is our chance. Our network of young leaders are taking steps in the right
direction to make change happen in their communities, and I appeal to industry leaders and policy
makers to join us on this journey”, said Aman.
The
Global Youth to Business forum
is a highlight of International Congress, AIESEC’s annual global
leadership convention. Hosted every year in a different location, this unique event brings together
members of the association’s national leadership teams and is followed by 35,000 young people who
are members of AIESEC chapters worldwide.
For more information please download the complete press release
here contact press (at)
ai.aiesec.org
Speaking withBan-Ki Moon at the launch of a new international climate
initiative
ROTTERDAM
– (25th May, 2009
) -
Within the next six months one million global students will set a new
climate agenda, and deliver their visions for a sustainable society to the negotiators at COP 15 in
Copenhagen. This is the ambition behind a remarkable initiative taken by AIESEC International,
international youth organisations and the Copenhagen Climate Council. Named PlanetCall, this
movement is to mobilize young people from all parts of the planet in an innovative and compelling
effort to influence the course of history.
Aman Jain the President of AIESEC International 2009/2010, spoke at
the press conference launch alongside Ban Ki-Moon confirming the role of young people in the
climate cause,
"Some call us the leaders of tomorrow, but I think of
us as the leaders of today", said Aman.
The PlanetCall was launched at the World Business Summit on Climate
Change, May 24th, as an alliance between the hosts of COP 15 and global youth organizations who are
committed to mobilising young people to lead change in the climate cause. The hosts were
represented by the UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon and the Danish Minister of Climate and Energy
Connie Hedegaard. Youth were represented by the leaders of five organizations: AIESEC, Energy
Crossroads, Energy Action Coalition, China Youth Climate Action Network and India Youth Climate
Network.
The driver of the ambitious planetary call is a new website designed as an online community
à la facebook or myspace:
http://www.planetcall.org/.
The users of the PlanetCall community will have the possibility to sign the common PlanetCall
Declaration as well as to share their position on climate change. PlanetCall.org will be the
interactive dialogue platform between the next generation and the current “architects” of the
future, being it top politicians, scientists or business people.
Speaking at the press conference, Aman Jain called for leadership, partnership and a move
from awareness to action. “We are the leaders of today who need to act on the promise of tomorrow
and this is our chance. We have taken a step in the right direction and I appeal to industry
leaders and policy makers to at least meet us half way on this journey”, said Aman.
Sweden’s Migration Minister meets with the President of AIESEC International
ROTTERDAM – (8th May, 2009) -
Sweden’s Migration Minister will meet with the President of AIESEC
International to discuss the challenges and opportunities to the mobility of young talent in the
European Union. As the host of the next EU Presidency, Sweden plays an important role within the
policy agenda for the European Union in 2009. AIESEC, as the world’s largest youth-run
organisation, organises internship for talented young leaders across the world and has found it
increasingly more difficult to operate under EU mobility regulations.
AIESEC International is invested in enabling global mobility, as the AIESEC internship
program operates across 100 countries and in 2008 sent over 5,000 young people abroad to undertake
international internships. Juan Cajiao, President of AIESEC believes “The AIESEC International
internship program enables the development of the sending and the hosting country, providing each
young person a unique experience where they are challenged professionally and personally to perform
in a new environment."
For more information please download the complete press release
here
or contact press (at) ai.aiesec.org
AIESEC wins worldwide Award for Democracy in the
Workplace
ROTTERDAM – (14th April, 2009)
-
AIESEC International is among forty companies who are the annual
winners of the WorldBlu List of Most Democratic Workplaces™ award. Forty companies are the annual
winners of the WorldBlu List of Most Democratic Workplaces™ award, sponsored by WorldBlu, an
Austin-based non-profit specializing in organizational democracy. “ Nothing has proven the need for
a new model of business as definitively as the current economic crisis,” says WorldBlu Founder and
President, Traci Fenton. “ The call for transparent, accountable, and decentralized companies is
greater than ever, and in the midst of all the economic turmoil these organizations are a bright
spot and a reason for hope.”
With innovative practices around accountability, dialogue and shared purpose, AIESEC
International President Juan Cajiao is proud to lead a dynamic workplace that fosters leadership
and excellence. "Our team has 22 young individuals from 16 different countries/territories with an
impressive record of past results. Such diversity of talent, as well as the our global scope of
operations, requires a management style that enables an environment in which each individual is
included and stimulated to identify growth opportunities and lead positive change processes. The
principles of democracy are a great way to make sure we reach our maximum potential as individuals
and as a team.", says Juan.
More information on the WorldBlu List of Most Democratic Workplaces™
and AIESEC International's profile is available at the Worldblu website
here.
AIESEC members interviewed as the 'voice of youth' on the financial
crisis
ROTTERDAM – (31st March,
2009) -
Italian correspondent, David Willey, from BBC World spoke with
AIESEC members at the Global Leaders Summit in Rome. Broadcast live around the world, AIESEC
members from China, india, Romania, Costa Rica and the US shared their insights as the voice of
youth on the topic "What has been the impact of the financial crisis on young people?" .
Recorded prior to the debate "Coming of Age in the Crisis", the Italian correspondent for
BBC World spoke with AIESEC's presidential candidates for the coming year. to explore their
perspectives on the financial crisis. Chaired by Bénédicte Paviot, the UK correspondent for FRANCE
24, "Coming of Age in the Crisis” was a debate a live audience of 200 young people from over 100
countries to explore; What does the financial crisis really mean for the next generation of
graduates and their ambition for a positive future?
The interview brings fresh perspectives from a broad cross-section of youth leaders. Aired
in the wake of the G20 Summit, the AIESEC interview represents 'the voice of youth' on the
financial crisis and its implications.
AIESEC President speaks at European Business Summit on
mobility
ROTTERDAM – (24th March, 2009) –&
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Speaking alongside the EU advisor to the Lisbon Agenda, AIESEC
International President Juan Cajiao represented at a panel discussion of the European Business
Summit (EBS). The EBS is Europe's premier gathering of government and business leaders, and the
topic of the panel was "Economic Migration to Europe: brain drain or brain gain?
AIESEC International President, Juan Cajiao from Costa Rica, is passionate about global
mobility, an area of expertise fuelled by his previous roles as Director of AIESEC in IberoAmerica,
Corporate Responsibility Manager in AIESEC China and an Industrial Operations Management intern in
Romania. His current Presidential role involves leading AIESEC's global operations through an
international team of 22, reporting to a plenary of 106 countries.
With the theme “Dare and Care: sustaining Europe’s ambitions; Financing, Staffing and
Greening”, discussion during the EBS focused on the fact that Europe needs to become more
entrepreneurial should take the lead in research and development and (eco)innovation. Juan brought
practical insights to the conversation concluding that society has a responsiblity to support
entrepreneurs and their employers, providing supportive structures to allow capital and talent to
move easily and to enable a flexible competitive maket in which to adapt products, services and
operations.
Present in 106 countries, AIESEC is the world's largest youth
leadership development organisation, providing talented individuals to lead businesses and NGOs
worldwide.
Supported by business and higher education, AIESEC operates a global
internship program in over 100 countries that fosters such an environment using the mobility of
young talent as a leverage for change.
For more information on the role of AIESEC in supporting
organisations, check the Partner section of
www.aiesec.org
AIESEC members and alumni journey to Antarctica to
explore the future for climate and energy on planet
earth
ROTTERDAM – (24th March, 2009) –
From March 25 th- April 5th, nine members and alumni of AIESEC will
journey to Antarctica for a leadership expedition designed to activate the next generation of
leadership on climate and energy issues. Supported by BP and 2041 ,the expedition is “an open
exploration of the issues facing our planet and the actions that could shape its future”.
The nine AIESEC members and alumni from China, Brazil, Germany, South
Africa, Australia, Denmark, Ecuador, Sweden and India will join an expedition team of over 50
enterprising young students from across the world. Opening in Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the
world, the expedition will involve visits on the Antarctic mainland complemented with conversations
and workshops from experts in the field.
As a self-driven leadership experience, participants are invited to
share their knowledge and enter into discussion and debate through workshops and exercises onboard
the expedition vessel and on the continent itself.
With the dramatic and powerful Antarctic environment as the content
of the expedition, “the coldest, highest, windiest, driest, most barren and least known area on
earth” the expedition is geared to network and connect participants to make real change upon
returning to their countries and organisations.
Aman Jain elected as President of
AIESEC International 2009-2010
ROME, Italy – (20th February, 2009) –
Aman Jain has been newly elected as the President for AIESEC
International for the term 2009-2010. Elected on a Presidential platform titled “The power of now”,
Aman plans to lead exponential growth for the worlds largest youth-run leadership organization.
AIESEC International’s newly elected President is 23 year old Aman Jain. Hailing from India,
Aman is the current Vice President External Relations for AIESEC International. With over 6 years
experience in AIESEC, Aman wants to lead the ambitious growth of AIESEC, to respond to the need for
young leaders in society and its markets.
“I see the greatest financial Crisis in decades and I see a world that is looking at us for
strong ethical leadership. I see 35,000 young people as AIESEC members and presence in over 100
countries and territories, and we’ve only begun to scratch the surface”, says Aman.
In the future, Aman wants to lead his own firm based out in India and make a difference to
his country by bringing infrastructure projects to parts of the country where it is lacking. After
finishing his term as President of AIESEC International, Aman intends to take up further studies
and work towards a career in India.
The new Presidential term will commence on August 1st 2009, and Aman is presently selecting
the global team who will lead together with him in 2009-2010.
What impact is the financial crisis having on
young people?
ROME, Italy (February 16th, 2009) —
This is the question a panel of young leaders will debate in Rome on
the 18th of February 2009, thanks to AIESEC; the world's largest youth‐run organisaton. Chaired by
Bénédicte Paviot, the UK correspondent for FRANCE 24, the debate entitled "Coming of Age in the
Crisis” will involve a live audience of 200 young people from over 100 countries to address this
critical topic; What does the financial crisis really mean for the next generation of graduates and
their ambition for a positive future?
Hosted by AIESEC in partnership with international news network, FRANCE 24, "Coming of Age
in the Crisis" is a forward- thinking conversation bringing together young people, expert opinion
and an audience of over 200 young leaders from more than 100 countries. David Woolcombe, President
of Peace Child International, and Lucian Tarnowski, founder of Brave New Talent, will start the
conversation by addressing the state of affairs from their experience in the market. The debate,
chaired by Bénédicte Paviot, will then begin with a panel of 5 young people representing a broad
cross section of the global community. They are AIESEC's Presidential candidates from India, China,
Colombia, Romania and the United States. Dialogue will then begin with the international audience
of 200 students and graduates.
"All the right people are in the room to discuss this important topic for young people
today" , says Juan Cajiao, AIESEC's current President. "The customary formula for many young people
across the world has been to complete tertiary education and take up a job, with the promise of
success and lifestyle. This panel will address what happens now that this formula is broken, what
role we can play as the next generation of graduates in shaping the post‐crisis world", says Juan.
"Coming of Age in the Crisis" is a highlight of Global Leaders Summit, AIESEC's
international youth conference running from the 17th until the 27th in Rome. Find out more about
Global Leaders Summit at
http://www.gls2009.org
What does it take to lead the world's
largest youth-run leadership
organisation?
ROTTERDAM, NL, February
18th, 2009 –
As over 200 young leaders gather in Rome to elect the President of
AIESEC International, 5 bold individuals have stepped forward as candidates for the Presidency of
the world's largest youth run organisation. Involving representatives from over 100 countries, the
elections will take place during Global Leaders Summit in Rome in Italy from February
15th – February 26th, 2009. A diverse group, The Presidential candidates hail from Colombia, India,
China, Romania and the United States.
Li Zhen is currently the Director of AIESEC in the Asia Pacific. Li Zhen joined AIESEC in
2004 in Mainland of China and played a leading role in opening opportunities to connect China and
the world, an initiative recently recognised in the Financial Times. Li Zhen describes himself as a
big dreamer, a fast learner, an achiever and a considerate leader. Li Zhen is a candidate for the
Presidency of AIESEC International, because he believes that these characteristics will support the
global network to thrive in 2009-2010.
Annika Rudback, from the United States, is the current Director of AIESEC in the Middle East
and North Africa. Annika joined AIESEC in 2001, and has lived and worked in Ghana, Cameroon, Egypt,
Jordan and the Netherlands. Annika is passionate about entrepreneurial change and has experience in
building capacity in small and large civil society organisations. Annika is a candidate for
president of AIESEC International in 2009/2010, because she believes that AIESEC can become a
market leader and increase its impact in society at a dramatically larger scale.
Aman Jain is the current Vice President External Relations for AIESEC's global office.
Joining AIESEC over six years ago in India, Aman has since worked directly with young people from
over 20 nationalities. At 23, Aman is known for his experiences in marketing, strategy development,
sales, organization management and his leadership abilities. In running for President of AIESEC
International, Aman can see the opportunities in the market for proactive young leaders, and wants
to see the organisation scale up in the face of the financial crisis.
Monica Costea is the current Director for AIESEC in Central and Eastern Europe. A passionate
young Romanian, Monica's actions are driven by her determination to create sustainable change in
people and organisations. Monica cites the quote "In times of change some build shelters and others
build windmills" to describe the attitude she would like to drive in AIESEC in 2009/2010. As a
Presidential candidate, Monica believes AIESEC can be a role -model organisation that thrives in a
global contect of economic recession.
Felipe Cardenas is presently the Director of AIESEC Ibero-America. Felipe joined AIESEC in
2004 and since then has led the operations of AIESEC in his native Colombia, in the Dominican
Republic and as a Director of the Global Office. Felipe has travelled to over 30 countries during
his time in AIESEC, and has steered the development of AIESEC's fastest growing region in
2008-2009. As a Presidential candidate for AIESEC International, Felipe believes that a period of
crisis is also a period of opportunity, through which AIESEC can become even more relevant to
its stakeholders in society.
Elections commence on February 18th with candidate speeches, question and answer sessions
and the Presidential Debate. The final voting and announcement of the President of AIESEC
International for the 2009-2010 term will be made on February 19th 2009.
ROTTERDAM, December 16th, 2008- Speaking to AIESEC in Finland, Martti Ahtisaari recalled
warmly his time in AIESEC, as a university student. Mr Ahtisaari was a member of AIESEC in the
early 1960’s and continues to endorse the relevance of working with young people to build peace and
international co-operation.
In his recent video message to AIESEC in Finland, Mr Ahtisaari speaks warmly of his time in
AIESEC, recalling the important contribution made in organising international internships and the
strong friendships he built as a member and then alumnus of the association. Mr. Ahtisaari was,
last week, awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in a ceremony in Oslo, and has also been awarded the
UNESCO Peace Prize for 2007.
In an interview with AP Television News following the announcement of his achievement, Mr
Ahtisaari expressed his ongoing commitment to supporting the next generation in their challenges,
namely youth unemployment. "Making peace is one thing but then how to build a peaceful society from
there requires as much effort as the peace negotiations" said Mr Ahtisaari.
Founded in 1948, the youth-run network AIESEC is celebrating 60 years of enabling the
leaders of tomorrow. “AIESEC is more than anything, an environment which has the ability to
accommodate all types of people, take excellent care of them, and one day send them all off to all
corners of the world for purposeful action” says Mairi Jürska, a recent alumni of the association.
Social networks reshaping the recruitment
landscape
ROTTERDAM, December 11 th, 2008-
Social networks are changing the dynamics of recruitment across the
world, according to the first global Digital Generation survey. The survey has been created by
workplace experts Career Innovation (Ci) in partnership with AIESEC, the world’s largest
student-run organisation.
The Digital Generation Survey suggests a global community of young people, attentive to the
opinions and experiences of their peers. With 75% of young people surveyed logging onto social
networking sites daily, the survey indicates young people are using a diversity of online channels
to share their experiences and opinions with one another, including their experiences in the
workplace.
“Business has always been about relationships, conversations and networks” comments Jonathan
Winter of Career Innovation. “Now at last we are seeing the rise of software that reflects this
reality.”
The researchers, Career Innovation, acknowledge that personal networks have always been an
effective way of recruiting, especially in small organisations. Career Innovation cite the growth
in social networking as the catalyst that could move this from an invisible informal activity to a
mainstream priority for employers.
“The survey reveals the astonishing effectiveness of personal referrals in recruitment”
comments Winter. “When we asked young workers from 83 countries, 45% said someone has joined their
organisation as a result of their recommendation. If that’s proving so effective, why should
employers pay head-hunters a huge commission to source candidates?”
The move away from traditional headhunters, driven by the next generation of workers, is a
revealing outcome of the Digital Generation Survey, which consulted students around the world about
their motivation and behaviour using new technologies. The survey revealed their rapid adoption of
online social networks for serious work-related purposes including recruitment.
Lucy Symons, Chief Communication Officer for AIESEC International believes this is an open
invitation to organisations to engage and involve the next generation through youth networks, like
AIESEC.
“The survey results represent an exciting opportunity for organisations to work together
with tomorrow’s global opinion leaders in their roles as workers, clients and donors. It is clearly
important for organisations to work more closely with young people and AIESEC provides the platform
for this co-operation” commented Ms. Symons.
“Companies can now track the rise of these new technologies within their workforce,”
said Linda Shelley of Career Innovation. “They are using the Digital Generation Survey to shape a
strategy which harnesses the enthusiasts without alienating the traditionalists”.
Download an abridged version of the Digital Generation Survey
here.
.........................................................................................................................................................................................................
A new way of doing business and promoting
development
ROTTERDAM, December 4th 2008-
In challenging economic times, AIESEC connects young people and
organisations in over 100 countries to empower entrepreneurial leaders of positive change. In 2008,
amidst the innovative festival of Global Entrepreneurship Week, The Social-Business Ventures
Internship Program is inspiring a new generation of entrepreneurs in the development of market
based solutions for social and environmental problems.
A Supporter of Global Entrepreneurship Week, AIESEC offers leadership and learning
opportunities to young people keen to acquire the skills and awareness needed to be an entrepreneur
today. Through AIESEC, a youth run leadership network, young people have the opportunity to apply
for internships and to be placed with entrepreneurs across Latin America and Asia. Since 2004,
Artemisia and Ashoka have been working closely with AIESEC to grow the Social-Business Ventures
Internship Program, providing 76 Internships across 12 countries that have allowed entrepreneurial
young people to experience for themselves the lifestyle and lessons of working with groundbreaking
entrepreneurs.
Eny Garcia, a young Mexican intern placed at Cooperativa Educacional in Argentina, feels the
experience has equipped him to make change happen in his native Mexico.
“This internship has changed my way of thinking about business, people, family and friends.
I know that education is my aim in life and I will go back to Mexico to create a language school
focused on environment”, says Eny.
Carolina de Andrade, Strategic Partnerships Coordinator at Artemisia, sees this practical
experience as an essential step in the entrepreneurial journey of the students and recent graduates
involved in the internship program. “Our experience in identifying potential entrepreneurs has
shown us that vision, initiative, risk-taking and commitment are crucial attributes for aspiring
young entrepreneurs. Working with successful entrepreneurs provides a unique opportunity for the
participants to develop these attributes! They can also learn a lot about ethical values and
creativity, because we are talking about entrepreneurs of innovative businesses that are both
economically viable and contribute to solving social and environmental problems”, says Carolina.
Commenced in 2004, the Social-Business Ventures Internship Program has funded 76 internships
with entrepreneurs and hosted 2 regional events in Latin America to connect interns and provide
space to share their experiences. In 2008 the partnership has been expanded to India, with the
ambition to place 8 interns across the country. Carolina de Andrade sees the Social-Business
Ventures Partnership as an open opportunity for young people to develop the leadership skills they
will need to create entrepreneurial change in their communities.
“Artemisia believes strongly in the power of this partnership to develop key entrepreneurial
competencies in young people, not only for their professional development, but for all aspects of
their life”, says Carolina.
Find out more about the Social-Business Ventures internship Program by contacting AIESEC in
your country, accessible via
www.aiesec.org
Sourcing global talent: AIESEC celebrates 5,000 international internships
provided in 2008
ROTTERDAM, November 30th, 2008-
With economic crisis topping the global agenda, AIESEC has celebrated
the achievement of 5,000 internships provided in 2008. Founded in 1948, AIESEC is a growing global
network bringing together talented young people and organisations in over 100 countries.
The AIESEC Global Internship program is at the core of AIESEC’s integrated leadership
program. Run by young people for young people, The AIESEC Global Internship Program is run by
volunteer students in universities and tertiary institutions across the world, from Armenia to
Zimbabwe. The achievement of 5,000 internships is a benchmark for the organisation, the highest
number of recorded internships for 15 years of AIESEC’s 60 year history.
As the world’s economies look for paths out of the financial crisis, the President of AIESEC
International Juan Cajiao, believes AIESEC is playing an important role in providing young talent
to drive sustainable growth. “Organisations need employees who are entrepreneurial, culturally
sensitive and socially responsible to face the challenges of our global future. Every day somewhere
in the world, 16 individuals take up an AIESEC internship, developing the skills and awareness they
will need to drive change. Our network celebrates this achievement of 5,000 internships as an
important contribution to the growth of global society”, said Juan.
Organisations in business and civil society partner with AIESEC at a global, local and
national level, placing interns into professional roles for 3 to 18 months. The AIESEC Global
Internship Program is available to organisations in diverse sectors including management,
technical, education and development fields. Partner organisations span from Microsoft, who take 16
interns in their Global Offices, to a small Non-Profit in Colombia which benefits from a single
intern.
The achievement of 5,000 internships reflects growth across all five continents of AIESEC’s
operations, confirming the relevance of the youth leadership program for global markets. “Star
performers such as AIESEC in Indonesia, Vietnam and Hungary are growing alongside the emerging
economies of AIESEC in China, India and Turkey, Juan says.
Jan Muehlfeit, Chairman of Microsoft Corporation Europe, congratulates AIESEC and invites
organisations across the globe to partner with the Global Internship Program. Speaking to members
of the Global Office in his role as a member of the International Supervisory Group, Mr Muehlfeit
said “ You should be proud of what you are doing. It’s important not just for the companies, but
for the globe"
.........................................................................................................................................................................................................
ROTTERDAM
– (25th May, 2009
) -
Within the next six months one million global students will set a new
climate agenda, and deliver their visions for a sustainable society to the negotiators at COP 15 in
Copenhagen. This is the ambition behind a remarkable initiative taken by AIESEC International,
international youth organisations and the Copenhagen Climate Council. Named PlanetCall, this
movement is to mobilize young people from all parts of the planet in an innovative and compelling
effort to influence the course of history.
Aman Jain the President of AIESEC International 2009/2010, spoke at
the press conference launch alongside Ban Ki-Moon confirming the role of young people in the
climate cause,
ROTTERDAM – (8th May, 2009) -
Sweden’s Migration Minister will meet with the President of AIESEC
International to discuss the challenges and opportunities to the mobility of young talent in the
European Union. As the host of the next EU Presidency, Sweden plays an important role within the
policy agenda for the European Union in 2009. AIESEC, as the world’s largest youth-run
organisation, organises internship for talented young leaders across the world and has found it
increasingly more difficult to operate under EU mobility regulations.
ROTTERDAM – (14th April, 2009)
-
AIESEC International is among forty companies who are the annual
winners of the WorldBlu List of Most Democratic Workplaces™ award. Forty companies are the annual
winners of the WorldBlu List of Most Democratic Workplaces™ award, sponsored by WorldBlu, an
Austin-based non-profit specializing in organizational democracy. “ Nothing has proven the need for
a new model of business as definitively as the current economic crisis,” says WorldBlu Founder and
President, Traci Fenton. “ The call for transparent, accountable, and decentralized companies is
greater than ever, and in the midst of all the economic turmoil these organizations are a bright
spot and a reason for hope.”
ROTTERDAM – (31st March,
2009) -
Italian correspondent, David Willey, from BBC World spoke with
AIESEC members at the Global Leaders Summit in Rome. Broadcast live around the world, AIESEC
members from China, india, Romania, Costa Rica and the US shared their insights as the voice of
youth on the topic "What has been the impact of the financial crisis on young people?" .
ROTTERDAM – (24th March, 2009) –&
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Speaking alongside the EU advisor to the Lisbon Agenda, AIESEC
International President Juan Cajiao represented at a panel discussion of the European Business
Summit (EBS). The EBS is Europe's premier gathering of government and business leaders, and the
topic of the panel was "Economic Migration to Europe: brain drain or brain gain?
ROTTERDAM – (24th March, 2009) –
From March 25 th- April 5th, nine members and alumni of AIESEC will
journey to Antarctica for a leadership expedition designed to activate the next generation of
leadership on climate and energy issues. Supported by BP and 2041 ,the expedition is “an open
exploration of the issues facing our planet and the actions that could shape its future”.
ROME, Italy – (20th February, 2009) –
Aman Jain has been newly elected as the President for AIESEC
International for the term 2009-2010. Elected on a Presidential platform titled “The power of now”,
Aman plans to lead exponential growth for the worlds largest youth-run leadership organization.
ROTTERDAM, NL, February
18th, 2009 –
As over 200 young leaders gather in Rome to elect the President of
AIESEC International, 5 bold individuals have stepped forward as candidates for the Presidency of
the world's largest youth run organisation. Involving representatives from over 100 countries, the
elections will take place during Global Leaders Summit in Rome in Italy from February
15th – February 26th, 2009. A diverse group, The Presidential candidates hail from Colombia, India,
China, Romania and the United States.
