In January this year, I received an email from IBF’s CEO to nominate a person whom I felt worthy of being an IBF Fellow. I did some reflection, and nominated a 33-year industrial veteran for IBF’s consideration.
One of the main criteria for IBF Fellowship is contribution to the industry. I have come across and known many industrial giants. They all have accumulated great professional achievements, and in the process, also accumulated very good person wealth for themselves. But when it comes to contribution back to the industry and the society, sometimes I find it rare. Therefore, when I come across one, I will intentionally seek him or her out, and provide a platform for effective contributions back to the industry and society.
Why is it so important to contribute back to the industry and society? Because what defines a professional is not technical competency, that is a given. What defines a professional is also not about the high income he or she gotten, because with discipline, that is also a given. What defines a professional is that his or her existence has impacted the industry and society in a positive way; and his or her existence has also inspired others wanting to join the profession, not because of the glory or money, but because the profession impact others in a meaningfully positive way.
In impacting others, we also impact ourselves, because that gives us the meaning of our existence, professional or otherwise.
Allen
Manager: Membership & Sales @ IIASA
1moSuzaan Carelse and Team well done 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽