Staff Reporter
His Majesty The King has conferred the inaugural Bhutan GNH (Gross National Happiness) Medal to Laurene Powell Jobs, marking her as the first recipient of this prestigious honour.
The award recognises her exceptional contributions to humanity and her alignment with Bhutan’s GNH pillars: sustainable development, cultural preservation, environmental conservation, and good governance.
Powell Jobs has been a trailblazer in tackling some of the world’s most pressing challenges. In 2011, she founded Emerson Collective, an organization combining venture capital and philanthropic grants to address complex societal issues.
Under her leadership, Emerson Collective has supported initiatives in education, economic mobility, immigration reform, and environmental conservation. Her impact on media through her acquisition of The Atlantic and focus on nonprofit journalism has further amplified these efforts.
In 2015, she launched XQ: The Super School Project, a $50 million initiative aimed at transforming the American high school education system. In 2021, she founded the Waverley Street Foundation, dedicating USD 3.5 billion over ten years to combat climate change, with a special focus on underserved communities.
The foundation prioritises sustainable food systems, clean energy transitions, and climate resiliency. Operating ss a “spend-down fund,” it is designed to deliver immediate and impactful solutions to environmental challenges.
Her innovative approach to philanthropy and purpose-driven investing has redefined pathways for addressing systemic global issues. Her contributions to education, climate solutions, and social entrepreneurship have been widely recognised, earning her a place on TIME magazine’s list of the 100 Most Influential People in 2023.
During her first visit to Bhutan, Powell Jobs will also explore the Gelephu Mindfulness City, further deepening her connection with the nation’s unique vision of development rooted in holistic well-being.
This historic award highlights Bhutan’s dedication to celebrating individuals whose transformative work aligns with the country’s vision of advancing the well-being of humanity and the planet.