REAL PEOPLE.REAL ISSUES.REAL LIFE.
Finding Hope
Optimism is what Egyptians need to feel at this very moment. By Réhab El-Bakry
10 August 2011, 5:04 pm
 

I’m optimistic. Although I’m borrowing this statement from a colleague’s source, right now optimism is what Egyptians need to feel at this very moment. With the demonstrators in Tahrir Square vowing to remain there until tangible change begins to take place, it might seem that we are once again at the doorstep of turmoil. But I don’t agree with that assessment.

 

 

We are, as a country, facing our biggest challenge in changing the face of this country forever. It will be no easy endeavor, but it is one in which we must succeed. Bringing about real change is not just about giving in to revolutionaries’ demands or creating a new government. In essence, it is also about economic change. For years now, Egypt has lingered at the gateway of economic growth but never managed to find the key to sustainable gains that benefit everyone. So now, perhaps, we must kick in the door.
 
 
Egyptians have always been criticized for being inefficient and having a poor work ethic, even those who make a decent salary and live comfortably. As for those who barely make enough to make ends meet — well, can anyone blame them for doing their jobs half-heartedly? Despite that, they are all still out there in Tahrir demanding more. They are demanding rights and a stake in the system that has long forgotten them.
 
 
At this critical juncture in our history as both a country and as a people, I no longer believe the solution lies in throwing money at the problem. The more people demand involvement in the system and accountability from those who lead the country, the bigger their stake in the future of this country. Perhaps this should be what we all strive for as leaders, company owners and managers.
 
 
It is this belief that drives my optimism. As long as jobs are not just a way to pay the bills and instead considered part of our mission to succeed as individuals, the more likely we are to succeed at generating growth and finding individual ways to become more efficient, while our companies expand alongside. Being accountable and engaged within the system can only help move Egypt forward.
 
 
On a final note, this will be my last issue as deputy editor-in-chief of Egypt Today and Business Today. This has been a great experience for me, and as I begin to charter my own course in this new Egypt, I would like to thank you for allowing me the opportunity to share my thoughts on this country with all of you. 
 
 
I hope you enjoy the issue. 
 
 
Regards,
 
 
Réhab El-Bakry
Deputy Editor-in-Chief
Add Comment
Add comment