Committing to "The Lift"

Empowering others through the Alumni Network

The data is clear: empowered women transform societies.”

—Melinda Gates, “The Moment of Lift”

Don’t you just love the title of Melinda Gate’s new book, "The Moment of Lift." I love it because it’s a call to action of the two things I’m personally into.

One, the idea of being present in the moment. I’ve always been intrigued by how this moment, this very second, can change everything that follows it.

And two, how we’re all interconnected and the reciprocal benefits one receives when we help and support each other.

I also love that Melinda is using her prominence as a platform for challenging us all to make a commitment to lifting others, specifically women. The Microsoft Alumni Network also is a platform — a platform for 40,000-plus ex-Microsoft employees who inherently continue the heritage of giving after leaving the company. In fact, for some passionate alumni, nonprofit work becomes their new job.

During the last 10 years, the Alumni Network has granted $1.2 million to support alumni-led nonprofit organizations. We’ve profiled the philanthropic work of extraordinary alumni doing amazing things to better the lives of others. You can read about some of these alumni here and here.

We know there are hundreds more alumni doing amazing work to empower women and right the inequalities around the world. I pledge that the Microsoft Alumni Network will continue that support and amplify the stories of alumni who are committed to the lift. Go here to tell me about the work you’re doing to support and empower girls, women and gender inequality.

I can’t wait to read “The Moment of Lift,” rise to Melinda’s challenge and share the amazing stories of alumni committed to the lift.

Ali Spain is the executive director of the Microsoft Alumni Network. Connect with her at ali@microsoftalumni.com.