Dhaka, February 1, 2025 – Nobel Laureate Prof. Muhammad Yunus has called on young people worldwide to take bold steps toward building a sustainable future through social business. Speaking at the 9th Social Business Youth Summit (SBYS) 2025, he emphasized that they have come a long way and are ready to achieve even bigger things.
“We are committed to creating a new Bangladesh. That’s our job, and we’ll get it done,” said Dr Yunus, delivering the keynote speech at the event themed “Change the Country, Change the World.”
The summit, held in Bangladesh—the birthplace of social business—brought together young visionaries, entrepreneurs, and experts from 21 countries to explore ways of using business as a force for social good.
Dr Yunus introduced the idea of a “Social Business Giving Pledge”, encouraging wealthy individuals to invest in sustainable businesses rather than donating wealth purely as charity. “Charity money has one life, but social business money has an endless life—it keeps recirculating and solving problems,” he explained.
He also stressed the need for changes in banking systems to support social businesses, arguing that profit-driven finance models should recognize the value of enterprises that reinvest earnings rather than distributing them.
Recalling the activism of young changemakers, he pointed to street art in Dhaka as a reflection of their vision for a better future. “These painted walls aren’t just casual art; they document what young people are thinking and fighting for,” he said.
The summit highlighted global challenges, including climate change, poverty, and unemployment, calling for a world of three zeros—zero carbon emissions, zero wealth concentration, and zero unemployment through entrepreneurship.
Participants explored solutions in food security, health, education, climate change, gender equality, and sustainable fashion, reinforcing a shared commitment to people and the planet over profits.
Liberty News’ national affairs states that Dr Yunus urged attendees to think big, take action, and spread the social business model worldwide. “Making money may bring happiness, but making others happy is super happiness—and that’s what social business is all about.”
LND/BAIZID
