Ashoka is a global organization that identifies and supports social entrepreneurs who are driving positive change in their communities and around the world. Founded in 1980 by Bill Drayton, Ashoka has become a leading force in the field of social entrepreneurship, with a network of over 3,500 Ashoka Fellows in more than 90 countries.
The company takes its name from the ancient Indian emperor Ashoka, who ruled from 268 to 232 BCE and is known for his commitment to social welfare and justice. Ashoka's mission is to create an "Everyone a Changemaker" world, where individuals have the skills and mindset to solve social problems and contribute to the common good.
Ashoka identifies and supports social entrepreneurs, or Ashoka Fellows, who have innovative ideas and approaches to addressing social challenges. These individuals are selected through a rigorous process that includes multiple rounds of review and assessment. Once selected, Ashoka provides them with financial support, access to a global network of like-minded individuals, and strategic guidance to help them scale their impact.
One of the key principles of Ashoka is the belief in the power of empathy. Ashoka believes that empathy is the foundation for creating positive social change, as it allows individuals to understand and connect with the needs and experiences of others. Through its programs and initiatives, Ashoka seeks to cultivate empathy in individuals and communities, fostering a sense of shared responsibility and collective action.
Ashoka's work spans a wide range of social issues, including education, healthcare, environmental sustainability, and economic development. The organization supports social entrepreneurs who are working to improve access to quality education, develop innovative healthcare solutions, promote sustainable agriculture, empower marginalized communities, and much more.
In addition to supporting individual social entrepreneurs, Ashoka also works to create systemic change by influencing policy and fostering collaboration among different sectors. The organization advocates for policies that support social entrepreneurship and changemaking, and it brings together stakeholders from government, business, and civil society to address complex social challenges.
Ashoka has had a significant impact on the field of social entrepreneurship and has helped to create a global movement of changemakers. Its Fellows have launched innovative initiatives that have improved the lives of millions of people around the world. From providing education to underserved communities in India, to developing sustainable energy solutions in Africa, to promoting gender equality in Latin America, Ashoka Fellows are driving change on a global scale.
In conclusion, Ashoka is a pioneering organization that is transforming the way we think about social change. Through its support of social entrepreneurs and its advocacy for a more inclusive and empathetic society, Ashoka is creating a world where everyone has the opportunity to make a positive impact. With its global network and commitment to innovation, Ashoka is at the forefront of the social entrepreneurship movement, inspiring and empowering individuals to become changemakers in their own communities.
