Bill and Melinda Gates have been working for years, through their philanthropic efforts, to address some of the biggest challenges in health care, education, energy, poverty and more. Now they’re asking a generation raised with a global perspective, entering their professional lives during the most trying of times, to consider how they will make the world a better place.
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In a message to the graduating class of 2020, which appeared first in The Wall Street Journal and then on the Gates Notes blog on Tuesday, the Gateses addressed graduates confronted with the COVID-19 pandemic, the cancellation of long-awaited commencement ceremonies and what comes next.
For a generation raised on the internet, there is already an understanding of challenges faced by peers in every part of the world, they wrote. Whether it’s disease outbreaks, climate change or gender inequality, graduates should be asking themselves how their actions and professional goals will contribute to improving lives for everyone.
“If this crisis has inspired you to pursue a career in public service, that’s fantastic — but it’s not the only way to contribute,” the Gateses wrote. “You can always use your voice and your vote to advance change. You can insist on policies that create a healthier, better future for everyone, everywhere—whether they live down the street or on the other side of the planet.”
Calling the current health crisis a “daunting time” and the path after graduation “much steeper” for many, graduates were encouraged to remember that the world has been rebuilt after war, it has vanquished smallpox and helped a billion people climb out of poverty.
“With your leadership, the world will be stronger than before,” Bill and Melinda Gates said.
