Natural Resources and War in the Sudans

There are many root causes of war, but in Sudan and South Sudan, the struggle for resources is chief among them. In both countries, the exploitation of major oil reserves has been a point of contention and corruption rather than cooperation and development. Environmental damage has led to a diminishing livelihood base, thus leaving young men with few options but to join armed groups. In this presentation, John offers solutions to the growing conundrum faced in these two countries, and looks at how a growing number of resource conflicts are shaping the future of armed struggle worldwide.

Congo: Cell Phones, Laptops and the World’s Deadliest War

In these talks, John connects the dots between the increasing demand for consumer electronics and the deadliest war in the world since the Holocaust. As it turns out, the minerals that are used to power items like cell phones, laptops and other modern day devices often originate in the Congo, where armed groups vie for control of those minerals and the profits they derive. However, a major consumer movement is now underway that is changing the equation for Apple, Intel and all other leaders in the electronics arena - including the U.S. government - greatly impacting the war-torn Congo region. John provides audiences with an inside look at the power of consumer choice and its far-reaching influence in the shaping of world events.

The Holocaust, Modern Genocides and the Anti-Atrocities Movement

Genocide has evolved over time since the Holocaust. But the variables going into genocide have remained the same: targeting people on the basis of their identity. The biggest symbol of hope on the horizon regarding efforts to counter genocide is the growing people's movement to stop it from happening. In this motivating presentation, John talks about the power of social movements and how they have been used - and will continue to be used - as the major force in the prevention of genocide and other social atrocities.

Good News Stories from Africa: How Hollywood and the Media Get it Wrong

The standard image of Africa is a starving baby, a continent of helplessness and a population ensconced in victimhood. These impressions are reinforced by the media, especially big-budget motion pictures that portray Africans as helpless or inherently violent. However, the reality is far different. In this revelatory talk, John illustrates the differences between "Hollywood Africa" and the African continent as it truly exists today, peeling back the veil of mystery and showing a vibrant, growing society filled with culture and promise.

10 Building Blocks for Making a Difference in the World and in Your Neighborhood

John has followed two paths towards making a difference: locally through being a mentor and "Big Brother" to kids whose fathers are absent, and globally through his work for human rights in Africa. A dynamic presenter, John talks about how he stumbled onto both of these paths in his early 20s, and then provides the "ten ingredients" he has used to make a difference throughout these last three decades. In this inspiring talk, John intersperses personal stories of Africa, celebrities and life in general to show how change can happen.

The Enough Moment