Next Gens must see the world!
In the latest in a series of articles for CampdenFB, experienced family office professional Giles Graves explains why the next generation needs to get out and see the world.
I have now travelled in 50 countries and lived in nine. The more I travel the more I understand that the public, all over the world, in general, want nothing but the best for each other. In general, everyone wants peace, health and happiness for themselves and others. Any ideas to the contrary are manufactured narratives, created to divide and control.
Travelling gives people a certain confidence and ease in any social interaction and allows us to gain a perspective on world events. What is seen as incredibly important and newsworthy in one country is of no interest in another and the narratives and propaganda of governments become more obvious the more world-aware we become.
It is also the case that the more one travels the more one realises how plentiful the resources of our world are. There is no “over-population”, “water scarcity” or “land shortage” for the world as a whole, only in specific places. Obviously, if you have been brought up in a city like New York, London, Paris or LA then of course you will believe there is overpopulation and major shortages of resources like clean air, fresh water and land.
Although educated, sophisticated and successful in their own country, many non-travelling citizens would be amazed to see how other countries and communities operate. Their government may, for example, have instilled in them the idea that all countries are inferior to their homeland. The more they travel, however, they will find this to be far from true as they see how well life is enjoyed in many other places.
That is why this article encourages the next generation to gain experience not just through travel but somewhat adventurous travel to boot.
As everyone in the sector will attest, wealth preservation, succession planning, and multi-generational legacy are paramount concerns for any Family Office and therefore education for the next generation holds significant importance.
While traditional educational avenues like formal schooling and mentor programs remain foundational, the transformative power of travel should not be overlooked.
To 9-5 ers, travel is two weeks a year of (hopefully) exotic destinations and leisurely pursuits. We are not talking about that. This is not about going on holiday. This is about travel being the conduit for unique and indispensable educational experiences.
Cultural Awareness and Global Perspective
One of the most profound benefits of travel is its ability to broaden perspectives and foster cultural awareness. Experiencing diverse cultures, languages and customs firsthand instils empathy, tolerance and a deeper understanding of global interconnectedness.
Cultural fluency is invaluable for successful nextgens. It enables them to navigate cross-cultural negotiations, anticipate market trends and forge meaningful connections with stakeholders from different backgrounds.
Moreover, exposure to different societies and traditions cultivates adaptability and open-mindedness, both of which are essential qualities for effective leadership.
Adventure
Adventurous Travel is particularly beneficial. Not so adventurous that it is life-threatening but just enough so that there are obstacles to overcome: particularly, if possible, in a team. Families I have worked with have sent their children off to the Himalayas, to sail around the world or to a remote African village to teach English to tribal children. These experiences are gold dust.
By immersing themselves in unfamiliar environments, nextgens can develop the agility to embrace ambiguity, navigate complexity and innovate in the face of uncertainty.
Embarking on adventurous travel offers young adults a unique opportunity to broaden their horizons. Through immersive experiences in diverse cultures and environments, they confront challenges, navigate unfamiliar territories and encounter people from different walks of life.
Facing and overcoming obstacles instils a sense of resilience and self-assurance.
By stepping out of their comfort zones and embracing the unknown, nextgens not only enrich their worldview but may also develop the confidence to pursue their aspirations with vigour and adaptability.
Family Exploration
Exploring a new country with an older family member can be a wonderful opportunity. There will be highs and lows on the trip but such adventures can foster meaningful intergenerational dialogue, enabling elders to share their wisdom, experiences, and vision for the future with the next generation.
Facing uncertainty together can strengthen bonds between generations which is central to the cohesion and continuity of a family legacy.
Networking and Relationship Building
Travel can provide the next generation with useful networking opportunities and interacting with individuals from diverse backgrounds, industries and perspectives cultivates communication skills, emotional intelligence and cultural competence.
Attending events worldwide creates chances to forge meaningful connections with peers, mentors and potential collaborators. These relationships not only broaden professional networks but also expose nextgens to new ideas, opportunities and perspectives.
Personal Growth and Self-Discovery
Travel is a transformative journey of self-discovery that challenges individuals to step out of their comfort zones, confront uncertainties and embrace new experiences. Whether trekking through remote wilderness or navigating bustling city streets, each adventure presents opportunities for personal growth, resilience, and self-confidence.
For Next Gens, this journey of self-discovery is essential to develop a strong sense of identity.
Environmental and Social Responsibility
Lastly, travel can raise awareness about environmental and social issues, inspiring nextgens to become advocates for positive change. Experiencing the impact of environmental damage, poverty and inequality firsthand can ignite a sense of urgency and responsibility to address these pressing challenges.
Travel is a strategic investment in the education and development of the next generation.
Family offices should encourage travel as an integral component of their educational initiatives for the next generation, ensuring a legacy of informed, compassionate and responsible leadership.
