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Doing the right thing: make it your adventure – Maurice Ostro OBE, Chair, Business Action Council

About This Episode

Philanthropist, entrepreneur and chair of the new Business Action Council Maurice Ostro OBE joins Michael in this week’s Change Makers. Maurice explains the BAC’s role in working to stabilise the economy as business begins the recovery from lockdown, and what he believes organisations need to do in order to thrive in the months ahead. He also shares his fascinating life and career journey; from the story of the Ostro Stone – the world’s largest known deep blue coloured topaz gemstone – to his entrepreneurial career and passion for giving back to society with Entrepreneurial Giving (eg) and the Ostro Fayre Share Foundation.

Maurice Ostro OBE

Maurice Ostro, OBE, is a serial entrepreneur, philanthropist and chair of the Business Action Council. He has fused the two major strands of his career to create eg (Entrepreneurial Giving), a movement to help entrepreneurs to be more successful and encourage them to embed purpose within their businesses.On the one hand, Ostro is a successful entrepreneur. His business ventures have ranged from frozen yogurt to gemstones, media distribution and airline catering. On the other hand, Ostro is a philanthropist. He founded the Fayre Share Foundation with his wife Katy, serves as Vice Chair of the Council of Christians and Jews and created Collaboration House, a charitable co-working space in London.

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Lockdown List

What is a book that has changed your life?

Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance – Robert M. Pirsig

What are you watching in lockdown?

Tiger King

In one sentence, describe your new normal.

Zooming in smart casual attire (smart on top, casual on the bottom)

Who is your biggest inspiration?

My father. He showed more resilience than one could possibly imagine. He lived through the horrors of the Holocaust and still remained one of the most positive people I have ever had the honour of knowing.

What is your best tip for life?

Every time you take a knock, think that this too could be for the good.

Top 5 lockdown tracks

It’s the End of the World as We Know It (And I Feel Fine) – R.E.M

I’m Still Standing – Elton John

More Than a Feeling – Boston

Don’t Stop Believing – Journey

Despacito – Luis Fonsi

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