Celebrating Switzerland’s National Day: A Reflection on Privilege, Responsibility, and Strategic Leadership

Today, August 1st, marks Switzerland's National Day—a day that commemorates the founding year of 1291. While the historical accuracy of this date may be debated, what remains undeniable is Switzerland’s long journey through poverty, war, and significant emigration in search of a better life.

Today, we are a prosperous nation, a haven for immigrants and refugees. Let’s face it: without their contributions, we wouldn’t be as wealthy as we are. For the past four generations, we’ve been among the privileged. Growing up in a rich country like Switzerland, I know firsthand the paradox of experiencing poverty amidst wealth. Yet, I recognize our privilege because we have access to education, a globalized, technological world, and a social system that supports us. That is privilege.

From Privilege to Progress: Leveraging Technology for Equity

This week, during the Education Week at Small Village Botswana in Africa, where I sit on the board, we realized it takes so little to make an impact. Listening to what people need and meeting them there is crucial. We introduced concepts such as self-awareness, love, empowerment, and even AI—topics we often take for granted in Europe.

Coming back to the AI topic. We are all eager to explore AI, excited by the rapid advancements in technology, because we have access. We can participate. But what about underprivileged youth who weren’t as fortunate—those who didn’t have the sheer luck to be born in Switzerland? How can we ensure these young people can leverage technology and prevent the education and equity gap from widening? First, we must invest in creating accessible educational programs that introduce AI and technology in underprivileged communities, both locally and globally. Partnering with schools and community organizations to provide resources such as computers, internet access, and digital literacy training is essential. Additionally, fostering mentorship programs that connect technology professionals with young people can inspire and guide them, showing them pathways to careers in tech.

And that is just one example of a learning topic and issue.

Leading with Vision: Creating a More Equitable Future

To me, equity means walking the talk—providing access and lifting others to our level, or at least attempting to take steps toward it. Just as Switzerland has evolved over 700 years, we must strive to ensure the next generation can do the same.

Switzerland’s prosperity and stability offer us significant opportunities, but they also demand that we exercise strategic leadership in shaping the future. Being privileged with a strong economy and democratic values, we must acknowledge the responsibility to contribute positively to society. This involves fostering inclusivity, promoting sustainable development, and leading by example on the global stage. Strategic leadership calls for innovation and adaptability, ensuring that we address challenges like climate change and social inequality with foresight and commitment.

A strategic, visionary, accountable, and authentic modern leader is, above all, aware of their privilege—their position, the power to make decisions, and the ability to shape the future. Perhaps someone once believed in them and provided them with equity. This is what a strategic leader should do. We all know that as a global community, we thrive when we reduce poverty worldwide. According to the World Bank, reducing poverty leads to economic growth, which benefits everyone.

So - that is why - all of us should make a step towards more kindness and equity - however small, because even the smallest efforts can lead to meaningful change.

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