Libby Rees, 11, interviews our Chief Executive
Jasmine Whitbread, Chief Executive, talks about her ambitions for Save the Children.
Friday 25 May 2007
What made you move from the business world to working for charities, and especially Save the Children?
I've always wanted to do this sort of work. Although I enjoyed my work running a business, and had lots of great experiences, it wasn't doing anything about injustice in the world. I want to make the biggest difference possible, and I believe I can do this at Save the Children.
What are the major issues Save the Children hopes to resolve in 2007?
We've got our work cut out to continue to educate children in war-torn areas. We'll also keep pushing for free healthcare for the poorest children. Here in the UK we've got to stop the government locking up children as part of their policy on asylum-seekers. It's shocking and it must end.
The German Chancellor, Angela Merkel, has said she wants the G8 summit she will host in 2007 to focus on fighting poverty. What other issues would you want to be highlighted?
I think that's a fine focus. The challenge will be to make sure the summit really does keep this focus and isn't watered down or distracted by other issues. Of course, we'll be arguing that if you want to break the cycle of poverty, the only sure way of doing this is by investing in children.
What part do you think children can play in the work of Save the Children?
Children can be very effective in campaigning. I want to see much more involvement of children in Save the Children. They are a powerful force for change and we'll achieve much more if they are involved.
