Takeaways from the 2019 UN General Assembly

Learning’s from some of the world’s most influential and inspiring international development leaders

This summer I had the great privilege of working for the Rockefeller Foundation, supporting their Power and Asia Operations teams. At the end of my fellowship I participated in various events during the UN General Assembly in New York and had the opportunity to discuss some of the worlds most pressing development issues with a particular focus on “SDG 7: Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all”

My top 3 take-away’s;

1. We need to start thinking about ideas that work at scale. Too often we think about ideas that work, and then try to scale them
2. Not only does philanthropic capital drive thinking towards innovative solutions, it can also be catalytic in attracting private sector / risk capital
3. Much of the technology and investor interest necessary to solve select UN Social Development Goals (SDGs) already exists, however the lack of policy is a key barrier

John Kerry, former US Secretary of State, mentioned during his speech at Climate Week; “Impossible is not a declaration, it is a dare”.

Feeling excited and optimistic about the future, more than ever!

One of the many amazing events I attended during the 2019 UN General Assembly in New York.

Former US Secretary of State, John Kerry. A very inspiring closing speech.