Lonely Planet founder supports leaders in addressing development issues

Encouraging entrepreneurship in vulnerable communities can create lasting change

The founder of the iconic Lonely Planet travel guide series, along with his wife, have committed $10-million pounds (approximately $17.4-million) to educate new business leaders in addressing development issues.

“If you’re pushing entrepreneurship, it’s the developing world where we would particularly like to see it happening,” Tony Wheeler is quoted as saying by Thomson Reuters Foundation of his support to up-and-coming leaders through the Wheeler Institute for Business and Development at the London Business School in England.

The school is committed to the cause: “We believe business can and should be a force for good,” reads a note on the school’s website. “We intend to tackle global issues head-on: we are uniquely placed to provide trusted insights and real-world expertise.”

Christian Children’s Fund of Canada believes in working together as part of a global agenda to reduce poverty around the world by 2030. Stories like this are integral to putting those plans in motion.

About Children Believe

Children Believe works globally to empower children to dream fearlessly, stand up for what they believe in — and be heard. For 60+ years, we’ve brought together brave young dreamers, caring supporters and partners, and unabashed idealists. Together, we’re driven by a common belief: creating access to education — inside and outside of classrooms — is the most powerful tool children can use to change their world.

 

About Inspiring Stories

February 2026

Tableside: Children Believe's Voice in Canada's Gl...

During International Development Week, Fred Witteveen shares why bringing field-based evidence to Ottawa matters and how international development is a strategic investment in Canada’s global future.

February 2026

Ed Blackmore: Celebrating a man who inspired all w...

A tribute to Ed Blackmore, a devoted educator, father, and 25-year child sponsor whose faith, kindness, and generosity inspired all who knew him.

February 2026

From an India boarding school to 35 years of spons...

Follow Dan Sinclair’s 35-year journey as a child sponsor with Children Believe, inspired by his family’s legacy and lifelong connection to India.