Farewell to the Global Shapers Community

As I reflect now, in my 88th year of life, four principles stand out—principles that have guided my own journey, and which I want to share with you, hoping that they may guide your own path.

FIRST PRINCIPLE – LEADERSHIP MUST BE COHESIVE.
Leadership is not a single skill or position. It requires soul (purpose), brain (systemic thinking), heart (empathy), muscles (the ability to act), and nerves (resilience). Think about leadership as a whole. Cultivate your soul, your brain, your heart, your muscles, and your nerves if you truly want to make a difference.

SECOND PRINCIPLE – MEASURE YOUR LIFE BY WHAT YOU GIVE.
I have often been asked why I created foundations and communities rather than businesses. My answer is simple: I wanted to give more to others and to society than I took from it. If you see your life as a balance sheet, aim to leave it with a positive contribution to others. Whereas in business this would be called a loss, in life it defines your legacy.

THIRD PRINCIPLE – DO NOT LOSE TIME WITH NEGATIVITY.
As my career progressed and success grew, I encountered increasing criticism, resistance—and at times animosity. These experiences taught me that negativity is unavoidable if you try to make a difference. They also taught me not to waste energy on it. Negativity drains strength without creating progress. Focus on building what you believe is right.

FOURTH PRINCIPLE – PRACTICE CONSTRUCTIVE OPTIMISM.
Many people ask me what has kept me young. My answer is constructive optimism. The belief that improvement is possible—and worth working for—keeps curiosity alive, gives energy meaning, and makes setbacks bearable. Optimism, combined with responsibility, is a powerful force.

You are not shaping a distant future—you are shaping the present. When I see your commitment, seriousness, and sense of responsibility, I know that the community we built together is in good hands.

I step aside with gratitude for what you have already achieved, and with sincere confidence in what you will still accomplish.

With my very best wishes for your personal journeys and your continued service to society,

Klaus Schwab
Founder, Global Shapers Foundation

The Global Shapers Community, founded by Klaus Schwab, is a worldwide network of more than 10,000 young leaders active in over 500 cities. It empowers people under 30 to shape their communities through concrete, values-driven action. Non-partisan and impact-oriented, the community connects local initiatives with a strong global sense of responsibility.