This archive report was first published on 20 May 2020.
As the world grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic, it's clear that this crisis has brought unprecedented challenges. However, in the midst of adversity, there are opportunities waiting to be seized.
Former US President George W. Bush sounded the alarm about the imminent threat of a pandemic, and President Barack Obama set up an office in the White House to ensure readiness and a quick response. Bill Gates also warned about the dangers of a pandemic in a viral TED talk.
Similarly, climate change has been sending warning signals for years, and individuals like Gladys, a former colleague, have taken proactive steps to address these issues. She launched a consulting firm to help organizations prepare for the challenges ahead.
Opportunities are time-sensitive, and real winners are those who see them coming and prepare. The story of Boeing and Douglas is a classic example of this. While Douglas focused on building propeller-powered planes, Boeing invested in jet engines, which ultimately led to their success.
As we navigate this new world, we need to look for silver linings. The biggest winners in a post-pandemic world will be those who engage in rebuilding. Merchants of hope, people with accurate and relevant information, and those who can think creatively will thrive.
As Wale Akinyemi, chief transformation officer at PowerTalks, notes, 'Every war brings destruction, and as such rebuilding becomes the biggest activity of a post-war era.' In the aftermath of this pandemic, we have a chance to rebuild and emerge stronger.
