Arthur Zang - Extraordinary People Changing the Game

Thanks to http://www.thextraordinary.org/arthur-zang

WHY ARTHUR ZANG IS EXTRAORDINARY

The treatment of heart conditions is one of the major issues in many countries today, especially in Africa where there is a great shortage of cardiologists when compared to the overall population. In such places, people experience great risks in having their heart issues addressed, and some even die while waiting for help to come. Fortunately, there are people, who even in their young are already genuinely passionate about solving their community’s problems – people like Arthur Zang.

Arthur Zang is a young engineer and inventor who is most known for the “Cardiopad”, the first ever touch screen medical tablet in Africa that helps connect patients and cardiologists who are vastly distanced from each other by utilizing two of today’s greatest technological wonders – the internet and the digital tablet.

THE CARDIOPAD AND WHY IT IS REMARKABLE AS AN INVENTION

Simply put, the Cardiopad works as a medical examination device like the ECG and transmits the results to various heart surgeons throughout the country through the internet. As a result, the appropriate surgeon can then give his professional advice on the proper procedures and thus save time and resources in treating the heart condition before it gets worse.

While Arthur’s invention may not be the first of its kind in the world, it is very unique given the fact that it was designed and developed in a place where research and technology is often unnoticed because of bigger problems like poverty and rebellion. Arthur’s invention of the cardiopad not only revolutionized the way heart treatment is done in Cameroon, but it also showed the people in the country that their economic state is not a hindrance for them to be able to advance in technology.

WHAT TRULY MATTERS: A HEART FOR YOUR COUNTRYMEN

Arthur’s natural aptitude and talent for engineering may seem to be the main reason behind the success of his invention, but if you look deeper, it is because of his genuine desire to help his fellow countrymen that enables him to do what he does. Having gone through a difficult life when he was still young, Arthur developed a desire to see change happen in his country, and this is what caused him to devote his time, effort and resources to come up with a great invention like the cardiopad.

HAVING A PERSISTENT ATTITUDE

But it is not just his passion – Arthur is also determined and persistent, not letting disappointments get in the way of him achieving his goal. When Arthur started promoting his invention, his funding efforts at several times ended in disappointment because the banks turned him away – but this did not for once discourage him from continuing. Because of Arthur’s perseverance, he was able to get the government to help and fund his invention, thus saving the lives of millions of people through the advantages brought in by the cardiopad.

RECOGNITIONS

A truly extraordinary person by right, Arthur has indeed earned his way to becoming one of the youngest successful inventors today. He has been named as one of TIME Magazine’s “30 under 30 People Who are Changing the World” and was included by Forbes Magazine in their “30 under 30” list. He is also a recipient of the African Mobile Award, which simply proves just how significant his work has been in revolutionizing the medical industry.

Arthur Zang’s life and career is a true testament to what it means to use science for the betterment of mankind. He serves as an amazing inspiration to many young people to not only be interested in science and engineering, but to also use what they know so that they could be a great asset to their community.

10 REASONS WHY ARTHUR ZANG IS EXTRAORDINARY

1. Arthur Zang is the inventor of the Cardiopad, the first ever fully touch screen medical tablet in Africa.
2. His invention also revolutionized heart treatment in his country by bridging the vast gap between the 20 million Cameroonians and the 30 cardiologists in the country.
3. Through his persistence and perseverance, the Cameroonian government gave over 300 thousand Euros for the development and construction of Cardiopads.
4. He was named as one of the most successful young inventors in the world today.
5. He was included in the “30 under 30: World Changers” list by TIME Magazine.
6. Forbes Magazine named him as one of their “30 under 30” celebrities.
7. He founded his own company, the Himore Medical Equipments.
8. He is a recipient of the African Mobile Award.
9. His life and career proves that poverty is never a hindrance to achieving great things.
10. He is among the few young scientists and engineers in Cameroon.

The Biography of Jackie Chan

Long before he became an international household name, Chinese superstar Jackie Chan had smashed box office records throughout Asia with his trademark mixture of action, humour and precisely choreographed stunts all performed by Jackie himself.

And in 1987, already a millionaire, the martial arts expert was ready to take America by storm with what turned out to be his breakthrough film in the West, Police Story. "After a few similar movies, the US audience will begin to know me," he predicted. "Then it will be Jackie, Jackie, Jackie all the way."

And the Rush Hour star born Chan Kwong Sang in Hong Kong on April 7, 1954 was right. But the path to global stardom proved a long one for the former stunt man, who, as legend has it, was nearly sold to the doctor who brought him into the world by his parents, who were desperate for food money. His mum and dad, however, eventually got back on their feet after finding jobs cooking and cleaning at the French consulate. "I actually have the French government to thank for my present-day physique," Jackie once said. "My father, as head cook, would always save the best cut of steak for me, his only child."

Aged six, Jackie moved with his family to the Australian capital of Canberra to work for the US consulate, but Chan junior was soon sent back to Hong Kong to study at the Chinese Opera Research Institute in Hong Kong. There, he faced gruelling days which started at 5am and ended at midnight, while undergoing rigorous training in singing, martial arts and acrobatics. 

By the late Sixties, after a visiting filmmaker offered him a job as stunt man in a Chinese action film, Jackie was taking on largely uncredited roles in films such as Bruce Lee'sEnter The Dragon and Fists Of Fury. After Lee's sudden death in 1973, one of his former directors, Lo Wei, cast Jackie in several films, aiming to promote him as the next incarnation of the icon. 

Jackie, however, had other ideas. "I wanted to be like a Chaplin or Buster Keaton, but all the martial arts directors wanted me to copy Bruce Lee. So after I got famous I started to change a lot of things... I decided, when Bruce Lee kicked high, I'd kick low. When Bruce Lee yowled, I'd punch doing a funny face like it hurt. Whatever Bruce Lee did, I'd do the opposite."

This blend of slapstick and action and the fact he performed all his own stunts helped him strike box office gold with his breakthrough hit Drunken Master in 1977. After briefly working Stateside in 1980 (he had a bit part in Burt Reynolds' road comedy Cannonball Run), Jackie spent the Eighties mining his winning streak in Asia, where his big-budget stints as both actor and director earned him the title "a local Steven Spielberg". 

He also became a major sex symbol; and many a female heart was broken when he married Taiwanese actress Len Feng-Chiao in 1983. The couple, who were briefly estranged in 1998 after Jackie had a child with former Miss Asia, Elaine Ng, has one son, aspiring singer Chan Cho-ming, also known as JC. 

Jackie's risky on-set stunt work which is featured in out takes at the end of his films has not been without consequences. He is said to have broken nearly every bone in his body at one time or another, and permanently lodged a piece of skull in his brain after a 45-foot fall in Yugoslavia while filming Armour Of God, an accident which also caused him to lose some hearing in one ear. 

Now in his late 40s Jackie admits he may be slowing down - but he's definitely not stopping. "Fights and stunts take me longer to do, but I have no choice," he says. "My life is the movies."

The Co-Founder LightSail Energy

What an inspiring story about this amazing lady, got it from: finestextraordinarypeople.weebly.com

Our planet has a lot of things to offer us, than when you look at history, countless developments and improvements have been made to make life more convenient for mankind. However, there are some times when developments slow down because of stagnation and the fear of change. Fortunately, there are those, who even in their young age continues to build upon what others have started and never stops looking for ways to make things better, people like Danielle Fong.

BEING DANIELLE FONG: HER CAREER AND ACHIEVEMENTS

Danielle Fong is a young entrepreneur and scientist who is most popular for being one of the founders of LightSail Energy, Inc., an organization focused on improving technology for the betterment of people’s lives. Since she started her work, Danielle has greatly inspired many budding young scientists to stand up and not let the obstacles keep them from making their mark in changing the world.

Because of her determination and courage to face disappointments for the sake of advancing science, Danielle has been recognized and awarded by many publications and institutions. Among these are being included in Forbes Magazine’s “30 under 30” list, being named as one of the “Top 35 Innovators Under 35” by the MIT Technology Review, and honored among the “30 People Under 30 Who are Changing the World” by TIME Magazine, to name a few.

THE LIFE OF AN UNSTOPPABLE FORCE OF DEVELOPMENT

Danielle’s story is unique and extraordinary – she dropped from school when she was twelve years old, but not because of normal reasons like lack of finances or interest – rather, she was so ready for advanced studies that she entered her college studies at twelve, earning her degree five years later. She also dropped out of her doctorate studies, but later on went to become one of the most popular figures in the world of science and technology for her work.

Danielle says this in an interview when she was asked about her greatest accomplishment:

“Honestly, the two proudest moments in my life were dropping out of junior high and dropping out of graduate school. I’ll always remember to listen to myself if something’s just not feeling right – and I’ll always remember to strive to find something that does. I don’t know if that qualifies as an achievement, in the common idiom, but it’s something I’m proud of.”

All of this, because of her unyielding determination to improve the lives of others and her courage to stand against even the biggest of disappointments in her career. Danielle’s attitude towards failure is very remarkable – for her, failures do not keep you from succeeding – rather, they are there so you can figure out how to become more successful. Because of this, Danielle was able to stand back up and move nearer to the success that she has always been hoping for, in spite of all the disappointments that she faced along the way.

DANIELLE’S LEGACY: A BETTER WORLD

Danielle’s work may not seem that huge now, but in ten years or more, people would look back and say, ‘look at the things we enjoy today because someone like Danielle Fong stood up and not let her disappointments keep her from fighting for her dream of improving technology.’ Her story is an inspiration for everyone that if you keep on believing, there is nothing that will ever hold you back from achieving your goal.

“In five years, I hope to have caused the replacement of fossil fuels sufficient to power ten thousand people. In ten, I hope to have made renewables the economical choice for almost everywhere on our planet. And I hope to have helped hundreds of young entrepreneurs follow their dreams, and strike out, toward the unknown.”

Danielle Fong - Extraordinary People Changing the Game

Thanks to www.thextraordinary.org/danielle-fong

WHY DANIELLE FONG IS EXTRAORDINARY

Our planet has a lot of things to offer us, than when you look at history, countless developments and improvements have been made to make life more convenient for mankind. However, there are some times when developments slow down because of stagnation and the fear of change. Fortunately, there are those, who even in their young age continues to build upon what others have started and never stops looking for ways to make things better, people like Danielle Fong.

BEING DANIELLE FONG: HER CAREER AND ACHIEVEMENTS

Danielle Fong is a young entrepreneur and scientist who is most popular for being one of the founders of LightSail Energy, Inc., an organization focused on improving technology for the betterment of people’s lives. Since she started her work, Danielle has greatly inspired many budding young scientists to stand up and not let the obstacles keep them from making their mark in changing the world.

Because of her determination and courage to face disappointments for the sake of advancing science, Danielle has been recognized and awarded by many publications and institutions. Among these are being included in Forbes Magazine’s “30 under 30” list, being named as one of the “Top 35 Innovators Under 35” by the MIT Technology Review, and honored among the “30 People Under 30 Who are Changing the World” by TIME Magazine, to name a few.

THE LIFE OF AN UNSTOPPABLE FORCE OF DEVELOPMENT

Danielle’s story is unique and extraordinary – she dropped from school when she was twelve years old, but not because of normal reasons like lack of finances or interest – rather, she was so ready for advanced studies that she entered her college studies at twelve, earning her degree five years later. She also dropped out of her doctorate studies, but later on went to become one of the most popular figures in the world of science and technology for her work.

Danielle says this in an interview when she was asked about her greatest accomplishment:

“Honestly, the two proudest moments in my life were dropping out of junior high and dropping out of graduate school. I’ll always remember to listen to myself if something’s just not feeling right – and I’ll always remember to strive to find something that does. I don’t know if that qualifies as an achievement, in the common idiom, but it’s something I’m proud of.”

All of this, because of her unyielding determination to improve the lives of others and her courage to stand against even the biggest of disappointments in her career. Danielle’s attitude towards failure is very remarkable – for her, failures do not keep you from succeeding – rather, they are there so you can figure out how to become more successful. Because of this, Danielle was able to stand back up and move nearer to the success that she has always been hoping for, in spite of all the disappointments that she faced along the way.

DANIELLE’S LEGACY: A BETTER WORLD

Danielle’s work may not seem that huge now, but in ten years or more, people would look back and say, ‘look at the things we enjoy today because someone like Danielle Fong stood up and not let her disappointments keep her from fighting for her dream of improving technology.’ Her story is an inspiration for everyone that if you keep on believing, there is nothing that will ever hold you back from achieving your goal.

“In five years, I hope to have caused the replacement of fossil fuels sufficient to power ten thousand people. In ten, I hope to have made renewables the economical choice for almost everywhere on our planet. And I hope to have helped hundreds of young entrepreneurs follow their dreams, and strike out, toward the unknown.”

10 REASONS WHY DANIELLE FONG IS EXTRAORDINARY

1. Danielle Fong is a co-founder and chief scientist of LightSail Energy, a highly successful organization that aims to improve technologies, more particularly the energy area, for the benefit of mankind.
2. She entered college at age 12 and graduated with honors at only age 17.
3. She left school twice, but emerged to become one of the most successful young scientists today.
4. She was named by the MIT Technology Review as one of the “Top 35 Innovators Under 35 of 2012”.
5. Her idea of using Compressed Air Energy Storage, once shunned by many experts, is now being widely accepted in the energy field.
6. She was included in the “30 People Under 30 Who are Changing the World” by TIME Magazine.
7. She was named as one of the “Sexiest Scientists Alive” by the Business Insider.
8. Her remarkable resilience, determination and courage has enabled her to move forward in spite of the disappointments and criticisms she faced.
9. She was named as one of Forbes Magazine’s “30 under 30” energy standouts.
10. She became a member of the Thiel Fellowship.

The Biography of Paul McCartney

Paul McCartney was born in Liverpool on 18th June 1942. He was raised in the city and educated at The Liverpool Institute.

Since writing his first song at the age of 14, Paul McCartney has dreamed and dared to be different. In the sixties, as the writer and co-author of their greatest songs, he changed the world of music with The Beatles. Legendary albums include: Please Please Me, Revolver, Help!, Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band and The White Album. Through the following three decades, first with Wings and then as a solo artist, he has continued to break boundaries and to influence the sound of music around the globe.

In 1990 he was commissioned by the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Society to write The Liverpool Oratorio, which has received more than 100 performances in 20 countries since its premiere in 1991, a performance recorded live by EMI Classics. The double-CD album topped the charts in both the UK and USA and was released on VHS and laserdisc.

In 1995 - the 30th anniversary of Paul McCartney's most-acclaimed song Yesterday - his second classical work, A leaf - for solo piano, was premiered at St James' Palace in the presence of the Prince of Wales. Since then, Paul McCartney has taken other steps into the classical form, composing Stately Horn, Inebriation, Spiral and his major challenge, Standing Stone.

Paul McCartney was commissioned by EMI Records in 1996 to compose a major orchestral work to mark EMI's 100^th anniversary in the autumn of 1997. The symphonic poem Standing Stone was recorded in the legendary Abbey Road studios, conducted by Lawrence Foster and performed by the London Symphony Orchestra. The world premiere was held at the Royal Albert Hall in October 1997, with a 10-minute standing ovation given to its composer by the capacity audience, and has been released by EMI Classics on both VHS and DVD-Video. Standing Stone then proceeded to go to No.1 in both classical charts in the UK and USA and McCartney later won the USA's National Public Radio New Horizon Award for Standing Stone, in recognition of his work in broadening the appeal of classical music.

Paul McCartney's third album on EMI Classics Working Classical was released in October 1999 and features three new short orchestral works, A Leaf, Spiral and Tuesday in addition to string quartet arrangements of songs written for his late wife, Linda. The launch of this album was a performance of the complete works of Working Classical on October 16^th in Liverpool, with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Andrea Quinn and the Loma Mar String Quartet. Paul McCartney himself attended this historic concert.

His latest album is A Garland for Linda - an album to commemorate the life of Linda McCartney, while also raising funds for cancer research, with original music from Sir Paul himself and other contemporary composers. The launch of this album took place in January 2000, with a special performance of all the works on A Garland for Linda, at St Andrew's Church in Holborn, London.

A freeman of The City of Liverpool and Lead Patron of The Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts, Paul McCartney was appointed Fellow of The Royal College of Music in 1995 by The Prince of Wales. In 1996 Paul McCartney was knighted by H.M. The Queen for his services to music.

The Founder of Fondation Franz Weber

An interesting and inspiring story taken from: 

bestextraordinarypeople.wordpress.com/2013/12/20/franz-weber-extraordinary-people-changing-the-game/

Franz Weber is an environmental activist, author, and animal rights activist who is most-known for his conservation work in the seventies and eighties, as well founding Fondation Franz Weber, a non-profit organization dedicated to the protection and preservation of the environment and the wild life. Throughout his career, Franz has established a reputation for being one of the most significant names in the field of environmental activism, having spearheaded successful environmental campaigns around the world.

AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS

A true champion of animal welfare and environmental conservation, Franz has received numerous accolades and recognitions for his work. Among these include being named as Delphi’s “Citoyen d’Honneur”, the City of Austin’s “Weber Honorary Citizen”; receiving the German Medal of Environment and the German Prize for Conservation of Nature; as well as winning the Hans Adalbert Schweigart Medal from the World Union for the Protection of Life. These, among all the other awards that Franz has received all throughout his career prove just how significant he has been in advancing the causes of environmental protection and animal welfare.

RISING UP TO HELP MANKIND: FRANZ’S LIFELONG PASSION

“No one can deny that the history of mankind since time immemorial is a story of indescribable horror. But at the same time, no one can also deny that since time immemorial men have appeared again and again to try to bring humanity out of the labyrinth of horrors.”

Since he was young, Franz has seen the different problems that have plagued mankind all throughout history. Being a survivor of the Second World War gave Franz the desire to help his fellow man by making sure that there is a world for the future generations to enjoy. This is why Franz greatly emphasizes in taking care of the environment. For him, nature is one of the greatest treasures that we can leave the next generation with – a treasure that would sustain mankind for years and years to come.

Even though the issue of environmental protection and animal welfare seems too huge for Franz to resolve in his lifetime, he does not allow these factors to prevent him from doing his part. Franz understands just how important each person’s role is – that no matter how small your efforts are, as long as you act, you can make a great impact. This is why Franz believes that in spite of the numerous horrors that humanity has faced throughout history, they are still able to overcome the challenges because there are those who stand up and do their part in pulling everyone up from the ditch.

FRANZ WEBER’S IMPACT TO THE WORLD OF ACTIVISM

The world owes much to Franz Weber for his undying efforts to ensure the protection and preservation of many of nature’s greatest wonders. His work has not only impacted the places that he fought to protect, but it has also brought forth a new generation of environmentalists who are being inspired by his actions. And while Franz knows that there is still much to be done, he does not relent – for the sake of the future generations, he continues to fight, as long as he has life in him.

“We do not want to live in darkness. That’s why we fight ahead until the decent morning dawns. And it will dawn, sooner or later. I wish for us all that it dawns sooner, not later. Much to the salvation of our children. And especially also for the salvation of our fellow creatures.”

Franz Weber - Extraordinary People Changing the Game

Thanks to www.thextraordinary.org/franz-weber

WHY FRANZ WEBER IS EXTRAORDINARY

Franz Weber is an environmental activist, author, and animal rights activist who is most-known for his conservation work in the seventies and eighties, as well founding Fondation Franz Weber, a non-profit organization dedicated to the protection and preservation of the environment and the wild life. Throughout his career, Franz has established a reputation for being one of the most significant names in the field of environmental activism, having spearheaded successful environmental campaigns around the world.

AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS

A true champion of animal welfare and environmental conservation, Franz has received numerous accolades and recognitions for his work. Among these include being named as Delphi’s “Citoyen d’Honneur”, the City of Austin’s “Weber Honorary Citizen”; receiving the German Medal of Environment and the German Prize for Conservation of Nature; as well as winning the Hans Adalbert Schweigart Medal from the World Union for the Protection of Life. These, among all the other awards that Franz has received all throughout his career prove just how significant he has been in advancing the causes of environmental protection and animal welfare.

RISING UP TO HELP MANKIND: FRANZ’S LIFELONG PASSION

“No one can deny that the history of mankind since time immemorial is a story of indescribable horror. But at the same time, no one can also deny that since time immemorial men have appeared again and again to try to bring humanity out of the labyrinth of horrors.”

Since he was young, Franz has seen the different problems that have plagued mankind all throughout history. Being a survivor of the Second World War gave Franz the desire to help his fellow man by making sure that there is a world for the future generations to enjoy. This is why Franz greatly emphasizes in taking care of the environment. For him, nature is one of the greatest treasures that we can leave the next generation with – a treasure that would sustain mankind for years and years to come.

Even though the issue of environmental protection and animal welfare seems too huge for Franz to resolve in his lifetime, he does not allow these factors to prevent him from doing his part. Franz understands just how important each person’s role is – that no matter how small your efforts are, as long as you act, you can make a great impact. This is why Franz believes that in spite of the numerous horrors that humanity has faced throughout history, they are still able to overcome the challenges because there are those who stand up and do their part in pulling everyone up from the ditch.

FRANZ WEBER’S IMPACT TO THE WORLD OF ACTIVISM

The world owes much to Franz Weber for his undying efforts to ensure the protection and preservation of many of nature’s greatest wonders. His work has not only impacted the places that he fought to protect, but it has also brought forth a new generation of environmentalists who are being inspired by his actions. And while Franz knows that there is still much to be done, he does not relent – for the sake of the future generations, he continues to fight, as long as he has life in him.

“We do not want to live in darkness. That's why we fight ahead until the decent morning dawns. And it will dawn, sooner or later. I wish for us all that it dawns sooner, not later. Much to the salvation of our children. And especially also for the salvation of our fellow creatures.”

10 REASONS WHY FRANZ WEBER IS EXTRAORDINARY

1. Franz Weber is the founder of Fondation Franz Weber, one of the largest environmental conservation and animal welfare groups in the world today.
2. He is one of the greatest environmentalists of all time, with his work significantly impacting many natural landmarks around the world.
3. He was key to the preservation of Ancient Delphi, to which he was named the Citizen of Honor in 1997.
4. His work in protecting the seals of Labrador, Canada resulted in the banning of baby seal pelts by the European Economic Community, thus preventing the hunting of seals in the area.
5. He was also significant in the preservation of the Danube forests, which later on became the first Austrian National Park.
6. He is a recipient of the German Prize for Conservation of Nature.
7. He was named as a Weber Honorary Citizen by the State of Texas and the City of Austin for his work in preserving the environment.
8. He was honored by Count Bernadette of Sweden by giving him the European Prize for Land Conservation.
9. He is a winner of the Hans Adalbert Schweigart Medal.
10. He played a vital role in the protection of the Lavaux region.

Biography of Diana Nyad

Biography of Diana Nyad

Diana Nyad (born August 22, 1949 in New York City, New York) is an American author, journalist, and long-distance swimmer noted for her world-record endurance championships. She was once ranked 30th among U.S. women squash players.

Over two days in 1979, Nyad swam from Bimini to Florida, setting a distance record for non-stop swimming without a wetsuit that still stands today. She broke numerous world records, including the 45-year-old mark for circling Manhattan Island (7 hrs, 57 min) in 1975. She was inducted into the National Women's Hall of Fame in 1986. Nyad was inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame in 2003.

She provides a weekly five-minute radio piece on sports for KCRW called The Score (heard during KCRW's broadcast of NPR's "All Things Considered"), as well as for the Marketplace radio program. She formerly hosted the public radio program "The Savvy Traveler."

Nyad graduated Phi Beta Kappa from Lake Forest College in 1973.

In 2009 she narrated the documentary Training Rules.

On July 8, 2011, the U.S. gay sports website CompeteNetwork reported on her plans for the 2011 Cuba-to-Florida swim, writing that "(the) amazing Diana Nyad is a living legend in the swim world, and a role model for the GLBT community..." Nyad is openly lesbian.

In September 2011, Nyad announced that she would attempt the Cuba-to-Florida swim again in 2012.

In 2011 she told a reporter that, in contrast to her youth, her drive as a swimmer is no longer propelled by attempts to work through the anger manifest from sexual abuse she suffered as a teenager.

In 2011, she gave a talk at TEDMED.

In 2012, she was the subject of the short documentary "Diana" by the digital channel WIGS.

The Founder of Demand Progress

This story really inspired me, taken from: pageeasy.com/AaronSwartz

Dedication, xion, perseverance, and a never-ending desire to help his fellow man. These are just some of the words we can use to describe Aaron Swartz, a hero who fought for the freedom of information, even when it cost him his own life. And even when all the odds were stacked against him, Aaron kept on keeping on, knowing that all his work and effort will never be put to shame.

Aaron Swartz was a computer programmer, author, and internet activist who became famous for his fight against the “Stop Online Piracy Act”. A genius and prodigy like no other, Aaron greatly contributed to the development of many of the things that we enjoy today in the online world such as the RSS, Reddit, Jottit and others, at an age where many of us would still be playing video games and outdoor sports. As an activist he was very influential, to the point that even after his death, his legacy ensured that the movement to free information was going to move forward.

ONE OF A KIND: THE GENIUS OF AARON SWARTZ

Aaron was really a person like no other. He was a prodigy, someone who possessed massive potential and had a great future ahead of him. In fact, as a testament to his remarkable intellect and prodigious skills, he won an ArsDigita Prize at the age of thirteen for developing a web application that is still being used today. He was a research fellow at Harvard University, and his influence was such that he became one of the leaders who successfully fought against the Stop Online Piracy Act.

A PERSON OF xION AND DEDICATION

Many who had the privilege of working with Aaron would tell you just how xionate he was when he set his eyes on doing something – it was like he was pouring his whole heart and soul into it, and this is why he became so successful even at a young age. Lawrence Lessig, the founder of Creative Commons, once said of Aaron in an interview:

“Every time you saw Aaron, he was surrounded by five or 10 different people who loved and respected and worked with him.”

THE WILL TO FIGHT: AARON’S UNYIELDING ATTITUDE

Even when all the odds were working against him, Aaron continued to persevere. This is most probably why he lasted two years against the seemingly overwhelming might of those who constantly persecuted him through arrests and charges, wanting to keep him silent and discourage him from fighting for the freedom of information. In the midst of all the trials and tribulations, Aaron moved forward, keeping his eye on the goal that someday, everyone would be able to access the information that could make this world a better place to live in.

Aaron’s life, no matter how short it may have been, was not wasted. His actions and words continue to stir the hearts of millions of people today, and his legacy is the increasing desire of the global population to fight for the right to freedom of information. It was a short life, but a life well lived for Aaron Swartz.

“Aaron had an unbeatable combination of political insight, technical skill, and intelligence about people and issues. I think he could have revolutionized American and worldwide politics. His legacy may still yet do so.” – Cory Doctorow on Aaron Swartz

Aaron Swartz - Extraordinary People Changing the Game

Thanks to: www.thextraordinary.org/aaron-swartz

WHY AARON SWARTZ IS EXTRAORDINARY

Dedication, passion, perseverance, and a never-ending desire to help his fellow man. These are just some of the words we can use to describe Aaron Swartz, a hero who fought for the freedom of information, even when it cost him his own life. And even when all the odds were stacked against him, Aaron kept on keeping on, knowing that all his work and effort will never be put to shame.

Aaron Swartz was a computer programmer, author, and internet activist who became famous for his fight against the “Stop Online Piracy Act”. A genius and prodigy like no other, Aaron greatly contributed to the development of many of the things that we enjoy today in the online world such as the RSS, Reddit, Jottit and others, at an age where many of us would still be playing video games and outdoor sports. As an activist he was very influential, to the point that even after his death, his legacy ensured that the movement to free information was going to move forward.

ONE OF A KIND: THE GENIUS OF AARON SWARTZ

Aaron was really a person like no other. He was a prodigy, someone who possessed massive potential and had a great future ahead of him. In fact, as a testament to his remarkable intellect and prodigious skills, he won an ArsDigita Prize at the age of thirteen for developing a web application that is still being used today. He was a research fellow at Harvard University, and his influence was such that he became one of the leaders who successfully fought against the Stop Online Piracy Act.

A PERSON OF PASSION AND DEDICATION

Many who had the privilege of working with Aaron would tell you just how passionate he was when he set his eyes on doing something – it was like he was pouring his whole heart and soul into it, and this is why he became so successful even at a young age. Lawrence Lessig, the founder of Creative Commons, once said of Aaron in an interview:

“Every time you saw Aaron, he was surrounded by five or 10 different people who loved and respected and worked with him.”

THE WILL TO FIGHT: AARON’S UNYIELDING ATTITUDE

Even when all the odds were working against him, Aaron continued to persevere. This is most probably why he lasted two years against the seemingly overwhelming might of those who constantly persecuted him through arrests and charges, wanting to keep him silent and discourage him from fighting for the freedom of information. In the midst of all the trials and tribulations, Aaron moved forward, keeping his eye on the goal that someday, everyone would be able to access the information that could make this world a better place to live in.

Aaron’s life, no matter how short it may have been, was not wasted. His actions and words continue to stir the hearts of millions of people today, and his legacy is the increasing desire of the global population to fight for the right to freedom of information. It was a short life, but a life well lived for Aaron Swartz.

“Aaron had an unbeatable combination of political insight, technical skill, and intelligence about people and issues. I think he could have revolutionized American and worldwide politics. His legacy may still yet do so.” – Cory Doctorow on Aaron Swartz

10 REASONS WHY AARON SWARTZ IS EXTRAORDINARY

1. Aaron Swartz is the founder of Demand Progress, an organization dedicated to the freedom of information online.
2. He was among the key figures in the fight against the “Stop Online Piracy Act”.
3. He was involved in the development of the famous web feed format RSS at fourteen years old.
4. He won the ArsDigita Prize at the age of thirteen for creating his first web program.
5. He fought to promote freedom of information in spite of facing numerous seemingly insurmountable obstacles in his life.
6. He was inducted in the Internet Hall of Fame for his contributions to the online world.
7. He was a significant in the success of the companies Infogami, Reddit and Jottit, two of which he helped establish.
8. He was a member of Creative Commons, a well-known organization founded by Lawrence Lessig, at only age fifteen.
9. His activism greatly influenced millions of people not just in the United States, but around the world to fight for their right to the freedom of information.
10. He was a research fellow at Harvard University at only twenty-four years old.

Malala Yousafzai

   Malala Yousafzai was born on July 12, 1997, in the town of Minogra in Pakistan. Minogra is located in the war-stricken Swat region. The swat region is under the control of the afghan branch of Al- Qaeda, the Taliban. Malala was first educated by her father Ziauddin Yousafzai, who was the superintendent of the local chain of public schools and a educational activist himself.

    In January of 2009 the Taliban imposed a ban on all girls going to school, to go into effect on January 15, 2009. Malala Yousafzai decided that she had had enough, she became a blogger for the BBC. She would hand-write notes that would be passed to the local BBC reporter who would scan and email them to the headquarters of the Pakistani BBC branch who would then publish them. This would ultimately lead to her world-wide fame.

    After banning girls from attending school the Taliban commenced a campaign of destruction, destroying over 100 all-girl schools in the swat region. Later that year the Taliban lifted the ban, but only in cases of co-education. Malala continued to fight for her right to education, her actions were not appreciated by the Taliban leadership yet, they were very appreciated by the international community. During this she continued her tenure as a BBC blogger and relished the opportunity to gain attention to her cause. Sadly shortly after this in February of 2009 she stopped her correspondence with the BBC  as the population of the Swat region fled as  the conflict between the government and the Taliban once again erupted onto conflict. Her family split up and sought refuge in refugee camps waiting for the all clear to return to their home. 

    This came in on July 24, 2009 when they finally returned home. At the same time, Malala was approached by adocumentary crew interested in making a documentary about her eventful life. This documenatary was titled Class Dissmissed, and was 

republished by the New York Times.

    Malala's fame grew, in October 2011, she was nominated for the  International Children's Peace Prize by The Most Reverend Desmond Tutu, sadly this fame came at a cost the Taliban issued death-threats that appeared under her door and on  her Facebook wall. In a Taliban metting held the summer of 2012, the Taliban unanimously agreed to carry out their threats and kill Malala Yousafzai. 

The Founder of Ebay

I got this amazing story from: www.squidoo.com/pierre-omidyar

Pierre Omidyar. One of the wealthiest people in the world because of his creation, eBay, and yet also one of those who has given over half of his wealth to help people through his organization, the Omidyar Network. A true manifestation of the saying, ?blessed to be a blessing?, Pierre is not only one of the leading technologists in the world today but is also one of the biggest names in the world of philanthropy.

ACCOLADES AND RECOGNITIONS
Ever since he started his career as a technologist, Pierre has already earned a great number of awards and accolades that prove just how extraordinary he is as a person. He was named as a Global Leader by the World Economic Forum, included in the Slate 60 list for six consecutive times, and was named as one of the Greatest Entrepreneurs of All Time by Businessweek Magazine just to name a few. His achievements both in the business and philanthropic world is worth mentioning, as through his organizations he has become one of the revolutionaries of using technology to change the world for the better.

A TECHNOLOGIST BY ORIGIN, A PHILANTHROPIST BY HEART
A technologist by origin and training but a philanthropist by heart, Pierre believes that the reason technology exists is so that it could be used for the betterment of mankind. And through his work with eBay and the Omidyar Network, Pierre is proving just that. Not only is eBay one of the most successful and largest websites in the world, but it has also become significant in the dawning of social media, connecting people from everywhere in the world.

Pierre has always believed in the power of connecting people, and this is why he really poured out his heart into eBay and the Omidyar Network. For Pierre, when people are brought together, no matter how physically limited they are, they can begin working together and accomplish great things.

In an interview, Pierre states:

It's all about connecting people. That's the first step. It's enhancing the richness of connections between people. What's interesting about all these things is that once people are connected, they're discovering some power. They're discovering that they can contribute to a community, which is an empowering experience. They're discovering that they can help influence ideas, that they can create powerful tools that other people can build on, that they can create content that other people value. It's the same human mechanisms at work across these very different entities.

Behind Pierre's success story is his amazing passion. He just loves what he does. When he was young, he found what he wanted to do for the rest of his life, and he poured all his heart and soul into it. For him, this is the secret to success ? being passionate at what you do.

As he says in an interview:

I say that you should pursue your passion. If you're passionate about something and you work hard, then I think you'll be successful. If you start a business because you think you're going to make a lot of money at it, then you probably won't be successful, because that's the wrong reason to start a business. You have to really believe in what you're doing, be passionate enough about it so that you will put in the hours and the hard work that it takes to actually succeed there, and then you'll be successful.

Failure has never stopped Pierre from achieving his goals. In his career, he has encountered several issues here and there, but he always focused on the target. For him, failures and disappointments should never become a stumbling block to get you to quit, they should become stepping stones for you to rise higher. Learn from them, and keep moving forward.

Pierre says:

Just go and do it, try it, learn from it. You'll fail at some things, that's a learning experience that you need so that you can take that on to the next experience. And don't let people who you may respect and who you believe know what they're talking about, don't let them tell you it can't be done, because often they will tell you it can't be done, and it's just because they don't have the courage to try.

Pierre Omidyar - Extraordinary People Changing the Game

Thanks to: www.thextraordinary.org/pierre-omidyar

WHY PIERRE OMIDYAR IS EXTRAORDINARY

Pierre Omidyar. One of the wealthiest people in the world because of his creation, eBay, and yet also one of those who has given over half of his wealth to help people through his organization, the Omidyar Network. A true manifestation of the saying, “blessed to be a blessing”, Pierre is not only one of the leading technologists in the world today but is also one of the biggest names in the world of philanthropy.

ACCOLADES AND RECOGNITIONS

Ever since he started his career as a technologist, Pierre has already earned a great number of awards and accolades that prove just how extraordinary he is as a person. He was named as a Global Leader by the World Economic Forum, included in the Slate 60 list for six consecutive times, and was named as one of the Greatest Entrepreneurs of All Time by Businessweek Magazine just to name a few. His achievements both in the business and philanthropic world is worth mentioning, as through his organizations he has become one of the revolutionaries of using technology to change the world for the better.

A TECHNOLOGIST BY ORIGIN, A PHILANTHROPIST BY HEART

A technologist by origin and training but a philanthropist by heart, Pierre believes that the reason technology exists is so that it could be used for the betterment of mankind. And through his work with eBay and the Omidyar Network, Pierre is proving just that. Not only is eBay one of the most successful and largest websites in the world, but it has also become significant in the dawning of social media, connecting people from everywhere in the world.

Pierre has always believed in the power of connecting people, and this is why he really poured out his heart into eBay and the Omidyar Network. For Pierre, when people are brought together, no matter how physically limited they are, they can begin working together and accomplish great things.

In an interview, Pierre states:

“It's all about connecting people. That's the first step. It's enhancing the richness of connections between people. What's interesting about all these things is that once people are connected, they're discovering some power. They're discovering that they can contribute to a community, which is an empowering experience. They're discovering that they can help influence ideas, that they can create powerful tools that other people can build on, that they can create content that other people value. It's the same human mechanisms at work across these very different entities.”

Behind Pierre’s success story is his amazing passion. He just loves what he does. When he was young, he found what he wanted to do for the rest of his life, and he poured all his heart and soul into it. For him, this is the secret to success – being passionate at what you do.

As he says in an interview:

“I say that you should pursue your passion. If you're passionate about something and you work hard, then I think you'll be successful. If you start a business because you think you're going to make a lot of money at it, then you probably won't be successful, because that's the wrong reason to start a business. You have to really believe in what you're doing, be passionate enough about it so that you will put in the hours and the hard work that it takes to actually succeed there, and then you'll be successful.”

Failure has never stopped Pierre from achieving his goals. In his career, he has encountered several issues here and there, but he always focused on the target. For him, failures and disappointments should never become a stumbling block to get you to quit, they should become stepping stones for you to rise higher. Learn from them, and keep moving forward.

Pierre says:

“Just go and do it, try it, learn from it. You'll fail at some things, that's a learning experience that you need so that you can take that on to the next experience. And don't let people who you may respect and who you believe know what they're talking about, don't let them tell you it can't be done, because often they will tell you it can't be done, and it's just because they don't have the courage to try.”

10 REASONS WHY PIERRE OMIDYAR IS EXTRAORDINARY

1. Pierre Omidyar is the founder and head of eBay, the largest auctioning website in the world.
2. He is the co-founder of Omidyar Network, one of the largest philanthropic groups in the world.
3. He is named as one of the richest people in the world, ranking 132 on Forbes Magazine’s list.
4. He is one of the 40 richest people who has given more than half of their revenue to charity.
5. He is one of the pioneers of the Internet, and his website eBay was released the same time as the Internet giants Yahoo! and Craigslist was released.
6. He has a passionate heart for charity, describing himself as a philanthropist at heart.
7. He supports more than sixty charitable organizations, which prove his passion for philanthropy.
8. He was included in Business Week Magazine’s “Top Givers” list for seven times.
9. He is included in the Greatest Entrepreneurs of All Time.
10. He is included in the World’s & Most Powerful Philanthropists.