Legacy to build and nurture future generations

Creating a lasting legacy for future generations involves defining a shared vision, fostering collaboration, and being accountable for our own actions.

“I wonder: whatever you do, isn't there also a desire in you to involve your children in some way? Because they can unlock their resources to create more impact in the world. Imagine that you can only make impact decisions only if you bring your children or someone who can guarantee longevity and continuity.”

— Isabelle Andrieu / Founder and Investor, Translated

“Millennials and Gen Z's will demand transparency and accountability. Our job as Gen X is to make it possible for them.”

— Fran Seegull / Executive Director, U.S. Impact Investing Alliance


“If one girl has a different feeling about herself and the container she’s in, in this little town, she might be the thread that 40 years from now is able to say and do and be something that could be effective in some way I can’t imagine.”

— Peter Buffett / Co-chair, NoVo Foundation

“Transition impact is becoming more important. For example, if you want to put social homes on brownfield land, you will need to dig up some nasty stuff in the first year, which is negative impact. However, once you have cleared the land, you can have a positive impact. Therefore, you need to consider the transition element. Transitions are important in the areas you are discussing.”

— Cliff Prior / CEO of the Global Steering Group for Impact Investing (GSG)

“if you try to do major environmental work, which almost at some point is going to create harm for people, changing jobs, changing homes, etc., you need to attune it to the circumstances and mores of a country. Without that, you’re not going to get climate measures through.”

— Cliff Prior / CEO of the Global Steering Group for Impact Investing (GSG)

Insights

Engaging future generations can foster long-term commitment in impactful decisions

It is important to adopt a long-term, comprehensive approach to creating impact, especially when tackling deeply ingrained social issues. Involving future generations in decision-making processes can increase long-term commitment and sustainability, while a short-term approach is unlikely to yield significant results. 

Social issues take years to have a significant impact on society, and therefore require sustained efforts to address them comprehensively. A holistic approach that integrates all aspects of the issue and aligns solutions towards a common goal is crucial for creating lasting change and healing society from its problems.


Fostering a long-term vision while recognizing short-term sacrifices

To create a lasting impact, it is important to have a long-term vision while also recognizing the sacrifices we need to make in the short term.  Balancing immediate sacrifices with future goals is essential, ensuring that short-term actions align with the long-term vision.

Communicating long-term objectives effectively helps garner support and keep everyone focused. Building resilience and celebrating progress along the way sustains motivation. Embracing an iterative approach allows for adaptation and learning. By striking this balance, organizations and individuals can create lasting impact while remaining adaptable and resilient in pursuit of their goals.

Design challenge

How might we build intergenerational mechanisms to extend engagement in the future across all forms of life and ecosystems?