This Week: Managing Election Anxiety, Global Citizen Rio G20 Announcement, COP30 Climate Partnership Opportunities, and More!
This week's newsletter also highlights the Denver book launch, how to nominate someone for the Global Citizen: Citizen Prize, the NY premiere of "The Quiet Diplomat" film, and upcoming virtual events.
Dear Friends and Supporters,
The biggest news this week comes from Rio de Janeiro, where Global Citizen is holding another iteration of Global Citizen NOW in partnership with the Government of Brazil and their G20 Presidency, as world leaders fly in for the G20 summit. Read more about this exciting initiative and other updates below!
With the U.S. election less than a week away, lots of people have been asking my thoughts on the election. Regardless of polls, one thing is clear: actions and votes matter. So, if you’re feeling anxious, remember that “action is the antidote to anxiety.” As tempting as it is to continuously check the polls (a terrible habit I am guilty of too!), they don’t predict the outcome, nor do they offer anything beyond adding to the stress—they only show that the election is close, hence reinforcing the fact that actions can and do make a difference. Substitute despair for agency.
In the coming days, instead of scrolling polls, if you’re a US citizen check out organizations like Headcount for resources on how to vote, and Climate Changemakers for ways beyond simply voting to ensure support for climate policies at the election. On this note, check out the inspiring #VoteForNature posters spearheaded by the great Dr. Jane Goodall, who shares a powerful message at the Vote for Nature website. Finally, remember, elections are just one pathway to contribute—there’s so much we can do beyond the ballot (the focus of my book, if you haven’t gathered by now 😉). Creating change, no matter the issue, requires people committed for the long haul.
Still feeling anxious? Well when all else fails, skip therapy and come to a Global Citizen event!
No, seriously—a colleague recently shared this message from a global citizen in Ghana, and it gave me a good chuckle:
"Good Morning Beautiful People. I’m from Ghana and I enjoyed the Global Citizen event two years ago. I’m wondering when you’ll organize another event in Accra, Ghana. My girlfriend broke up with me, and I really need to go to this event because it brings me joy and makes me happy. Thank you very much."
So on the subject of Global Citizen events…
Global Citizen Now is Coming to Rio de Janeiro!
Exciting news from Brazil - Global Citizen NOW is coming to Rio de Janeiro on November 17, on the eve of the G20 Summit. Hosted by Global Citizen, the Government of Brazil, and the 2024 G20 Presidency, this historic gathering will unite global leaders, activists, and cultural icons to tackle urgent issues, including climate change, poverty, hunge and social inequality. Featured speakers include Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, First Lady Janja Lula da Silva, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and Google’s VP for Emerging Markets, Doron Avni. Register your interest to attend here.
The summit will address critical actions to protect the Amazon rainforest, support the just energy transition, and amplify voices from Indigenous communities and frontline environmental defenders. This marks the first time Global Citizen NOW will take place in Latin America, underscoring Brazil's leadership in global sustainability efforts. Ahead of the event, you can read more in our latest editorial and join our call for leaders to endorse the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty.
THIS WEEK: Join an upcoming webinar to advance Africa’s future!
This Thursday, October 31 at Noon ET, tune in for an important panel discussion on the impact of funding the International Development Association (IDA)—a global lifeline for low-income countries, especially across Africa. Featuring special guest Actress, Executive Producer, International TV Host and MC, Sophy Aiida and yours truly! RSVP to tracey.alexander@globalcitizen.org
Why is IDA crucial? IDA is the world’s largest provider of grants and low-interest loans for developing countries, empowering communities in 77 of the world’s most vulnerable nations. It helps create resilience in times of crisis and provides steady support for essential priorities like healthcare and energy. With increased funding, IDA aims to power 250 million homes by 2030 and expand healthcare access to nearly 2 billion people.
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn more about how IDA is transforming lives and how you can be part of ending extreme poverty. Register now to join the conversation!
Please RSVP as soon as possible to tracey.alexander@globalcitizen.org. Once registered, you will receive a registration confirmation with your virtual log-in. Please be sure to check your spam folder for your confirmation.
On the subject of IDA, I want to give a special shoutout to the people of Spain for their incredible generosity in increasing support for IDA by more than 37% this past week. This fulfills a commitment made by Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez at the most recent Global Citizen Festival to boost his government’s support. Promise made, promise kept—check, check, check! Here is Sánchez’s message from the Festival:
Join Global Citizen’s COP30 Climate Campaign: Be Part of a Global Movement for Change
Over the next year, Global Citizen is rallying to protect the Amazon and drive real climate action leading up to COP30—and we want you with us. Global Citizen’s COP30 campaign will combine the power of advocacy, pop culture, and global platforms to engage millions and amplify the demand for urgent climate action. Through major events, digital campaigns, and our network of artist ambassadors, we’ll inspire public action and push governments and corporations to meet critical goals: keeping the 1.5°C climate target within reach and ending deforestation by 2030.
Partner with us to be at the forefront of mainstream climate advocacy, uniting a powerful, global community for the planet. To learn more and sign on as a partner , visit our campaign page. More announcements to come at GC Now in Rio on November 17th!
NOVEMBER 21, From Ideas to Impact: Denver, Colorado Book Launch on Policy & Culture Beyond the Ballot
Date: Thursday, November 21
Time: 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM MST
We’re thrilled to announce the Denver, CO book launch of From Ideas to Impact as we explore ways to create change beyond the ballot. Joining me will be Brandy Schultz, Co-Founder and CEO of Sound Future, for a thought-provoking dialogue on how culture-makers and entrepreneurs can harness the power of innovation, policy change, and live events to advance social impact on critical issues like climate change—no matter the political climate.
Book sales and signing will follow the discussion. Thanks to Foundation Source, 100% of sales proceeds will go to Sound Future. Register here and forward any friends in Denver, Colorado!
Nominations are open for the 2025 Global Citizen Prize: Citizen Award
Global Citizen is excited to announce that nominations are open for the 2025 Global Citizen Prize: Citizen Award, celebrating grassroots activists driving change in areas like climate action, gender equality, human rights, health access, and food justice. Winners will be honored at a ceremony in New York City on May 1, 2025, and will receive year-long support from Global Citizen to amplify their impact, including a $10,000 grant. We invite partners and friends to nominate inspiring individuals by December 15, 2024, to join us in recognizing and supporting those leading the fight against extreme poverty.
Another World Polio Day in the books!
October 24th marked World Polio Day, a day each year that Global Citizen and polio eradication partners mobilize to spread support for achieving a polio-free world. This year’s day comes as the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) continues to face a substantial funding gap, and as wealthy governments continue to slash aid budgets. As of Oct 2024, there have been 46 reported cases of wild poliovirus this year, six times the number by this same point last year. There was also the startling discovery of viral samples and a case of paralytic polio in Gaza leading the WHO, UNICEF and others to mobilize an emergency vaccination campaign reaching hundreds of thousands of children in short order. This is a reminder for the world that until polio is eradicated, it will remain a threat to people everywhere and it is critical that vaccination coverage rates remain high.
This year, Global Citizen engaged 46 leaders around the world, with the following leaders showing their support on social media or in their parliament:
UK
Germany
Minister Svenja Schulze, MP Prof. Dr Andrew Ullmann (FDP), MP Johannes Wagner (The Greens), MP Jürgen Coße (SPD), MP Kordula Schulz-Asche (The Greens)
Canada
MP Karen Vecchio (CPC), MP Mike Lake (CPC), Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development (Lib), MP Anita Vandenbeld
Australia
We thank these government officials’ support and our implementing partners for their continued support to eradicate polio for good!
Book Tour Reflections: The Role of Startup Entrepreneurs and Small Business Owners
As I’ve been traveling on my book tour, I’ve noticed a strong connection with small business owners and startup entrepreneurs who are dedicated to building sustainable businesses. Many of them see that without shifts in policy, the traditional market landscape can make it challenging for business models like theirs to thrive. This has me reflecting on the role business leaders can play in driving positive policy change.
While many companies make a positive impact through charity, employee engagement, or new roles like Chief Impact Officers, there’s a growing recognition that real change requires a shift in the policy landscape. And yes, taking a stand can carry risks, especially in a polarized climate, but forward-thinking leaders are finding ways to drive meaningful policy changes.
In my latest article for the Association of MBAs, I share how businesses can adapt to this challenge while also challenging the status quo. As I write, “Telling purpose-driven entrepreneurs to stay in their lane ignores the fact that companies with negative impacts actively work to block policy changes that might level the playing field. Just look at the unprecedented number of fossil fuel lobbyists swarming the halls at last year’s UN climate talks.” 🔗 Read the full article here.
The Quiet Diplomat - New York Premiere of Film about Ban Ki-moon’s extraordinary impact
Earlier this year, I shared why Ban Ki-moon’s extraordinary story is a central feature in Chapter 7 of my book. I titled that post "The Quiet Diplomat," inspired by the forthcoming documentary about former United Nations Secretary-General and ‘global citizen’ Ban Ki-moon. Now, I’m thrilled to invite you to its New York premiere on December 9, 2024!
Ban’s story began with hardship: as a child, he was displaced with his family during the Korean War. The UN Command’s support for South Korea deeply impacted him, setting him on a path to become a global leader dedicated to peace. Decades later, he served as the 8th Secretary-General of the UN, tackling one of the world’s most challenging roles. Over ten years, Ban navigated the complexities of international diplomacy amid a fragmented global landscape, using ‘quiet diplomacy’ to champion multilateralism—a skill even more critical today as global tensions and authoritarianism rise.
Join us at the New York premiere on December 9, 2024, at the SVA Theater in Chelsea. Experience Ban’s journey through an intimate, timely portrayal of his life’s work. To RSVP or learn more, click here or contact thequietdiplomatfilm@gmail.com. To watch the trailer click here.
My Reading List
$125 Billion Annual Boost in Nuclear Power Needed to Hit Net Zero, IAEA Says
Sarah Champion: UK budget must restore stability to foreign aid
Billionaires emit more carbon pollution in 90 minutes than the average person does in a lifetime
Money Matters: Climate funding falling short in vulnerable countries
As always, if you’re enjoying the weekly newsletter format, and want even more, you can subscribe to my Substack here where I publish reviews, lists, and articles regularly.
Till next week,
Mick
P.S. On November 13th, I'll be speaking at Goodera’s AI for Impact Summit, sharing an impactful case study on "How to Drive Change in the Age of AI." The event is fully virtual and free to attend—register here. Hope to see you there!
Awesome ⭕