Why Did I Choose OZY?

When I was asked to join OZY, I accepted without hesitation. You see, for me, it’s about family.  Let me explain…

I love uncovering bold stories, people, ideas and forward-looking trends that affect how we see and experience the world, and as Managing Editor at OZY, I get to do that everyday. I am also a lawyer, who has worked as a global educator, social entrepreneur and executive with a mission to empower people and communities through education and by expanding opportunities. Working with OZY allows me to combine all of these passions, propelling me toward the kind of world I want to live in, and the legacy I want to leave behind.

Courageous leadership

I joined OZY at a challenging time for the company. Although most people within my circle of friends cheered me on, some of my friends and colleagues questioned my decision. But this decision came from my strong, family-held belief in fighting for what is right and actively seeking to make a difference. I believe in OZY’s mission to amplify global voices and forward-looking ideas. I also believe in Carlos, my thoughtful and compassionate older brother. I’ve witnessed the strength it takes to be both self-reflective and to make an impact on our world, while building OZY back even better. His willingness to be vulnerable and admit mistakes, while leading us all to do our best, is an example of courageous leadership — something I think this world truly needs.

Global family

I’ve been impressed by OZY’s global reach, both in terms of the team we have built, as well as our readers, viewers, listeners and festival attendees. OZY represents a community of people across borders who are curious to understand and explore common threads that connect us, even as we acknowledge our differences. This openness and curiosity is what unites OZY’s global family. I am proud of the remarkable and world class team we are building, from France to Brazil, Australia, India, Nigeria, South Africa and the U.K., as well as journalists in Mexico, Pakistan, U.S. and Turkey– they report on vibrant stories and people that move us.  It’s an honor to work alongside them.

My family

Most of all, I was moved to join OZY because of my own growing family. Late last year, I was blessed to adopt a beautiful son. My adoption journey took many years, and the fulfillment of this dream has grounded me. Becoming a mother at this time in my life has given me a new perspective and a deeper desire for global change. I recognize that the world we are leaving to the next generation is a fractured one. I want to be a part of the solution, which I believe we will find in one another, as we are all part of a common tapestry. I joined OZY because I believe my son needs to see examples of how we really can learn from one another — and that change is possible.

Looking forward

As we continue this journey, I invite you — a valued part of OZY’s community of readers, viewers, listeners and festival goers — to jump in with us. Our world needs your voices. Some of the interesting themes we will explore this summer include the vibrant trends and thinkers of the new economy, emerging underground markets, the next world leaders, crucial scientific breakthroughs, and rising stars in music and culture, along with bold ideas for dealing with shame. So please, share with me the ideas, trends, curiosities and people you are hungry to learn more about. We will be profiling your ideas in upcoming newsletters.

Here’s something fun we were involved in just a couple of weeks ago, and I invite you to take a look at a few of my favorite recent offerings:

Arts & Culture:

• A look inside fashion choices taken by a trend-setting Middle Eastern designer who bridges ancient needlework techniques with modern non-binary trends
• A spotlight on how a rural Congolese designer thrives on a Paris runway
• A deep dive into RZA, one of the founding members of the Wu-Tang Clan, detailing a three-decade journey in music, acting, producing, writing, filmmaking and starting his own businesses

Business:

• A weekly business roundup — with a Global South perspective you just won’t find anywhere else
• A primer on how to contend with the 18,000-plus crypto coins and tokens

World:

• Critical reporting on what the rise of legalized recreational cannabis means to rural America
• On-the-ground reporting from Asia on emerging trends in transgender rights
• A story of innovation from Lebanon, at a place where politics meets hunger, and where old seeds bring new life

And there is much, much more on the way.

Amid the many challenges of our world — tragedies, war, pandemic, shortages, climate change and so much more, it takes a certain fortitude to connect, consider and participate. I want you to know that I appreciate your contributions and support.

Beverly Watson, Managing Editor