Sir Richard Branson, founder of the Virgin Group, expressed optimism for younger generations, emphasizing their ability to drive significant change. Speaking with CNBC, he encouraged young people to remain hopeful about their future, particularly regarding challenges like climate change.
Branson noted the importance of having capable leaders in positions of power and encouraged collective focus to address global issues effectively, stressing that even small individual actions can have a meaningful impact.
Branson highlighted his long-standing commitment to empowering youth, tracing his advocacy back to his teenage years when he launched a Student Advisory Center.
His philanthropic efforts have continued through Virgin Unite, the Virgin Group’s non-profit organization, which supports initiatives such as The NewNow, a group of young leaders addressing global challenges. He emphasized the urgency of involving young people in problem-solving discussions, particularly in areas like climate change, public health, and justice reform.
Richard Branson
In collaboration with Nile Rodgers and the We Are Family Foundation, Branson’s Virgin Unite has focused on fostering unity and addressing social divides.
Rodgers founded the foundation after 9/11 to promote understanding amidst a rise in hate crimes. Branson praised the partnership for its focus on uplifting young people and addressing pressing global issues, reinforcing that the current generation has the potential to make a profound impact.
Both Branson and Rodgers reflected on their early activism, noting the influence of their formative experiences in shaping their current endeavors. Branson protested the Vietnam War through his publication “Student,” while Rodgers worked with the Black Panther Party on community initiatives. Their shared history underlines the power of youth-led activism in creating meaningful societal change.
Branson also expressed frustration with political polarization, suggesting that differences between opposing views are often exaggerated by politicians seeking to incite division for electoral gain.
He advocated for greater collaboration and understanding among people of diverse ideologies. Similarly, Rodgers noted that while people generally share goodwill, instability often stems from governments driven by leaders with self-serving agendas, reinforcing the need for conscientious leadership.
