Change Heroes

Close to the beginning of every year, I like look to back at those who made it their mission to initiate positive change in the world—the Change Heroes. It is important to honor the people—past and present—who have dedicated their lives to changing things for the better.

The Change Heroes at the top of my list are: Anita Roddick (1942-2007), the pioneering founder of the Body Shop who crusaded for many causes including ending animal testing and supporting the environment; Yvon Chouinard, the founder of Patagonia, which is one of the first clothing companies to use organic cotton and fleece made of recycled-plastic (you can even send back old Patagonia clothes for recycling); and Benazir Bhutto (1953-2007), two-time Prime Minister of Pakistan whose election was a major milestone for Muslim women.

Who are your top change heroes, the men and women who inspired and excited you in 2007? They don’t have to be famous—I’d love to hear about someone in your community who deserves some acknowledgment.