My reflection on 2023 – Barack Obama

Barack Obama, former President of the United States.

This is a special time, Mostafa Kamal, in part because it gives us all an opportunity to reflect on the last year and our hopes for the year ahead. 

Today, I want to tell you about one of my hopes for 2024.

Michelle and I created the Obama Foundation to inspire, empower, and connect promising young leaders who will drive change for years to come. Today, we have a global network of young people from almost every continent who are tackling some of the most important issues of our time. And we’ve never needed them more than we do today. 

Right now, the world feels more unstable than it has in a long time. And yet, as heartbreaking as the news is right now—and as daunting as all the challenges we face may be—I am convinced that it is within our power to make this world better.

I believe we can still see beyond our differences, tune out the noise and listen to each other, and put ourselves in each other’s shoes, believing a better future is possible. That’s what our young leaders believe, too—and it’s why they’re working tirelessly to chart a better course. 

Together, they’re showing us that a renewed commitment to democracy and ongoing investments in our own communities are the key ingredients for bringing change home. 

Now the question is: Do you believe in our ability to create change and shape the future, Mostafa Kamal? If so, please make your 2023 contribution to support the next generation of changemakers now. A generous supporter will match all donations made today before midnight central time, up to $2 million. So don’t miss out on your chance to have your impact doubled!

Together, we are helping a new generation strengthen the bonds of trust and support a healthy democratic culture. And it’s up to the rest of us to do everything we can to support them. 

Thank you for helping us build a brighter tomorrow with your investment today. I hope you’re as excited as I am for the year ahead!

From our family to yours, have a happy and healthy New Year.  

(Barack Obama, donate@obama.org)