Beyond Just Us: Crossing the Rubicon of Hope through Justice-centered Leadership

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Jun 23, 2017
by Nicole Bogart
Beyond Just Us: Crossing the Rubicon of Hope through Justice-centered Leadership

Former Public Protector of South Africa Thuli Madonsela delivers inaugural Salzburg Global Lecture at the 70th Anniversary of Salzburg Global Seminar

“Courage is not simply the opposite of fear; it is the audacity to act in pursuit of a cause you believe in, regardless of fear,” said Thuli Madonsela, a human rights lawyer and former Public Protector of South Africa, during the inaugural Salzburg Global Lecture on June 23, 2017. With this speech, filled with reflection on the weekend’s core theme of courage, Madonsela set the tone for the 70th Anniversary of Salzburg Global Seminar at the annual Board of Directors Weekend.

Madonsela’s keynote speech highlighted some of the most pressing social issues of today; from homeless African students going days without food in their pursuit for higher education, to persistent economic inequality, and young people’s political disengagement. Yet, despite these challenges, good things continue to happen: such as technological innovations helping Africa enjoy its own industrial revolution. Madonsela called on global leaders to find the courage to fight for progress and justice, urging Fellows and guests to contribute to small acts of change.

“The peaceful world we yearn for lies in our collective hands. At the core of that world is social justice and the rule of law,” she said. “The invincible summer of hope that fueled the courage behind the Salzburg story lies in all of us. Together, through courage anchored in the invincibility of hope, faith and love, we are more than equal to the challenges of our time.”

Download and read the full lecture transcript