Proposal #7 - The Next Generation by Ben Casnocha

The Next Generation by Ben Casnocha

I would structure my essay around "the next generation." Who are the leaders in business of tomorrow? What are their concerns, ideas, potential obstacles, and bright spots? How do we nurture their participation in today's debates and conversations?

Outline:
1. What’s at stake?
a. America’s edge in business, education is slipping
b. Innovations increasingly take place overseas, tomorrow’s leaders increasingly bred overseas

2. Who is the next generation of entrepreneurs, thinkers, and do-ers? What attributes does this “Millenial” generation have?
a. Both general commentary and specific examples
b. This generation is critical to maintaining America’s edge

3. What does a world of accelerating change mean to them and what will the business landscape be when they enter into the real world?
a. Stimuli overload, information overload
b. The process through which information is consumed; the changing role and shape of media and journalism

4. Transforming the conventional educational institution into something as dynamic and powerful as the business world is and will be.
a. How can we stop neglecting the gifted young person and tomorrow’s true leaders?

5. Fostering a spirit of optimism to change the world
a. Connect the brightest minds
b. Use the internet to link ideas, people, and mentors
c. Identify real problems that can be changed

6. The role of government, business, and schools to nurture tomorrow’s leaders
a. Government: public policy that rewards innovations; overhaul in technology copyright law; focus on education; reduce deficits; engage them in democratic process
b. Business: create cultures of innovation, mentoring, and coaching; promote change management
c. Schools: produce engaged citizens and reward those students with promise and bridge the gap for those who are behind the curve. Equip students with the tools to lead in a global, information based economy.

7. Conclusion, looking ahead