I’m Sipho. I’m an African citizen. And this year I’m going to be more demanding.
I’ve been part of the movement to end extreme poverty for a long time, and don’t get me wrong, we have a lot to celebrate. We’ve helped cut global poverty in half.
But if you’re like me, it’s not just about the numbers, it’s about the people who are fighting with all their strength to escape the devastating poverty they happen to have been born into.
It’s the mother seeing all her children immunised against deadly but preventable diseases. It’s the father expanding his small business because reliable electricity has boosted profits. It’s the 14 year old girl proudly holding her exam results, one step closer to her dream job as a policewoman.
But I want more. While millions of people are building better lives, others are still struggling. Until every person gets a fair shot at life, no matter where they are born, I’m demanding our leaders do better.
This year is unique – world leaders are making a new global poverty plan and if it’s really, really great, we could end extreme poverty for good. Along with an impressive group of partners – called action/2015 – we’re asking you to do more and demand better.
There’s never been a bigger moment for our movement. And we’ve never needed you more.