I’d like to say hello to everyoneparticipating inDEMO Fall in Silicon Valley! It’s really a privilege forme to share some thoughts with so manytalentedyoung leaders.
DEMO showcases the best of thebest when itcomes to innovation around the world. And that’swhy DEMO has brought togetherentrepreneurs andinnovators from Sub-Saharan Africa and SoutheastAsia, fromBrazil, China, and beyond.
During my travels as Secretary ofState, I’ve seenfirsthand the amazing transformation taking placein many ofyour countries. And what’s driving thattransformation is really what makes it soexciting – it’s young entrepreneursand innovators, all with a bold new idea and the drive totake that idea andmake it a reality.
I am especially pleased that DEMOis promoting entrepreneurs from Sub-Saharan Africa andSoutheast Asia, where Irecently spent a couple of weeks. TheState Department is very proud tobe a partner in these efforts, because weknow that the best ideas are simply never bound byborders.
That’s why we’re working hand inhand with the private sector, NGOs, universities, andgovernments. And that’s why our Office of Global Partnershipshas launched “LIONS AFRICA”and “TIGERS at Mekong,” two exciting public-privatepartnerships that strengthenentrepreneurship in Africa and the Lower Mekongsub-region in Southeast Asia.
As you know, the work you’redoing isn’t just about making money – it’s about makingpeople’s livesbetter. And when you succeed, you fueltechnological innovation and createeconomic opportunity and jobs not just foryour own people, but for people around the globe.
I’m confident that in this roomis the next big idea, the next start-up of tomorrow – it’s inyour labs, it’sin your imaginations. So take advantageof this opportunity to network, makegreat connections, and find novel ideas tostand behind and support. You’ll have my supportand the support of the StateDepartment in that effort, I promise you.
All of you are risk-takers anddreamers. You’re not just the leaders of tomorrow – you’reactually leadingtoday. And that makes all thedifference. You’re changing the world evenas wespeak. And when I think of yourtalent and drive – your passion and creativity – I reallycouldn’t be moreoptimistic about the future that we can build together. So thank you for allthat you do, and I hopeyou enjoy the rest of your visit.
