COVER STORYpopulation of human beings on the
planet, right now, is on the run. They
are running from wars, conflicts,
revolutions in the Middle East. They are
running from gangs in Central America.
In Africa they are running from climate
change and desertification. They are all
running. And they’re called these
names, they’re called migrants,
immigrants. In one country I’m told
they’re called infiltrators. I have a name
for them too. I call them survivors.”
Chris is indeed a survivor, an ordinary
man with extraordinary dreams and
determined plans to make them come
true. He is also undeniably world-class,
both professionally and as a parent and
now as a besotted grandfather. But
does he still dream? Is there something
else he wants to achieve?
“I am so focused right now on a couple
of things,” he says. “I want to help
create the next Chris Gardners, and
they’re all around the world. The
universal dream, this whole idea you
can do, or be, anything.”
Of course there’s also a strong Plan A
in play. He’s partnered with
telecommunications giant AT&T,
roaming the world and spreading a
global message in just two words.
“Agility Is,” he says. “Agility is passion
and perspective. We’re trying to mentor
small-business owners and
entrepreneurs. I can think of nothing
better that I would like to do with my
life right now than to see other people
do what I do. And it can be done.”
Chris beams his wide, easy smile,
willing you to believe that nothing’s
impossible. All it takes is permission to
dream, and a good Plan A. Or two.
Chris spoke at the World Business Forum
in 2016. For details on the 2017 event,
visit wbfsydney.com