Ibrahim Abouleish
(1937-)

Egyptian Social Entrepreneur
Right Livelihood Award Winner
Schwab Entrepreneur
World Future Council

birthdate: March 23
birthplace:
Mashtul, Egypt

After living abroad for many years, Egyptian pharmaceutical researcher Ibrahim Abouleish had made quite a name for himself, patenting a number of medicines. When he visited his native country in the mid 1970s, he was shocked by the living conditions he saw in Egypt and decided to do something about it. In 1977, he created the organization SEKEM to help improve sustainable economic, social and cultural development in Egypt. Over the years, SEKEM has created numerous projects including mainstreaming organic farming methods, establishing medical facilities, and creating schools, vocational training and other educational opportunities for the disadvantaged. Ibrahim Abouleish and SEKEM received the Right Livelihood Award in 2003 for creating "a 21st century business model which combines commercial success with social and cultural development.” In 2004, the Schwab Foundation named him an "Outstanding Social Entrepreneur" and in 2006 he was chosen for the World Future Council.

 

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