Past Speaker
F.W. de Klerk
Nobel Peace Prize Recipient, Former President of South Africa
President F.W. de Klerk, who shared the Nobel Peace Prize with Nelson Mandela, delivered an inspiring speech September 26, 2016 at the O'Connor Institute Distinguished Speakers Series.
U.S. Senator Jeff Flake, who served a mission for the LDS Church in South Africa during the Apartheid era, introduced President De Klerk and greeted him in Afrikaans, the native language of South Africa. The sold out audience heard President F.W. de Klerk reflect on developing leadership across the world.
Following his remarks, Senator Flake and President De Klerk participated in an enlightening Q&A session with questions from the audience. The O'Connor Institute thanks Ambassador Barbara Barrett, together with collaborative partners Arizona State University, Thunderbird School of Global Management and Claremont Lincoln University for their support with this remarkable event.
Donald Kurangwa, a top student selected to represent the Thunderbird School of Global Management at the luncheon wrote to the O'Connor Institute following the event:
"His speech touched on some of the most critical issues on the Leadership challenges in developing nations which are hindering progress in these countries. It was also inspiring to note that among his generation there are some leaders who are taking the initiative to try and drive change in governance in developing nations particularly Africa. It was also very touching to hear his views and comments on my country's (Zimbabwe) leadership challenges of which I share the same sentiments."
Thank you,
Donald Kurangwa