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

July 2026

From hunger to harvest

A mother in Ethiopia transforms hunger into harvest through climate‑smart farming, improved healthcare, and community support. See how CHANGE is strengthening families.

June 2026

Inside Zam: Where Violence Follows Children Into t...

Children in Zam, Burkina Faso are rebuilding their education after conflict and displacement. See how community-led support is restoring safety, learning, and hope.

June 2026

Souraya: From a Victim of Exploitation to a Hopefu...

Souraya, a young girl from conflict‑affected Burkina Faso, escapes exploitation and rebuilds her life through psychosocial support, skills training, and entrepreneurship with the help of Children Believe and partners. Her inspiring journey shows the power of protection, resilience, and hope.