VC Discussion Questions - Session III

From the live Webinar:

1. We learned not only about the Amani Institute, but we also learned about how Roshan began the journey to create it! One might say the climax of his decision making was when he decided not to pursue a profit/capital only driven occupation. What is your opinion of his choice not to pursue work that is not necessarily about making money and generating capital? Do you think his decision is popular or unpopular among the younger generations now (and in the near future) entering the work-force today? 
2. If we talk about local social initiatives, is it still an important idea that a particular society needs the certain type of leader? Or the person with just leadership skills independently from her of his cultural background can solve any problem in any corner of the world and be an 'effective leader'? I ask this question, because, as for me, there is a quite commonly held perception that it is harder to start social initiative in your own country, because you know too many hidden dangers there and unsure if you really can change something. So, it seems to you that you can be far more useful somewhere else. However, in this case we face a problem of lack of awareness about the other society's social norms, different cultural codes etc. 

 From the Virtual Classroom Videos:

1.  Do you consider Manal al-Sharif a leader - what leadership characteristics does she portray?
2.  She explains how she had large number of supporters and opposers - why is it important as an effective leader to know both your supporters and opposers and why you should listen and respect both?
3. What can you learn by listening to those who doubt you as a leader?
4. She poses a question at the beginning and the end: "who do you think it is more difficult to face, oppressive governments or oppressive societies?" - what is your opinion now that you have heard her story? 
5. Think about those people you work with/live with/inereact with on a daily/weekly basis. Of those people, who do you respect the most? why and what characteristics do they embody that demand your respect? In what ways do they lead - on small or large levels?
6. Have you ever had a "lollipop" moment? If so, please feel free to explain and share your story!