004 - Global Heroes - February 2021

Letter from the editor Denise Koprich Shirazi

Dear Neighbor, Welcome to Global Heroes.

While the news has been less than optimistic lately, our focus remains on the positive. We shine a light on ordinary people who are accomplishing the extraordinary in hopes of solving humanity’s most challenging problems. We explore companies who challenge the status quo by conducting business more ethically and celebrities who give back while also using their platforms to advocate for change. Moreover, we are emboldened by our youth, who are on the front lines of climate change, and who even through a global pandemic, have been helping to ensure the most vulnerable are not left behind.

In New York and around the globe, we are leaning on each other to help cope with daily life and carry the economic and emotional fall-out of the pandemic. Even amid these turbulent times, we have witnessed an increase in charitable giving and small acts of kindness. In particular, our youth are taking action and calling for optimism. They are stepping up and doing their part by working toward solutions to increased isolation, hunger, and homelessness. In this issue, we meet New York high school student Chloe Trujillo and her team at SustainAble Start, who have been supplying New York’s most vulnerable with environmentallyfriendly hygiene starter kits. Celebrities are also doing their part, showing gratitude to frontline workers, donating clothing to the homeless, and ensuring students have access to education. Corporations like Morgan Stanley, together with non-profit Robin Hood, are committed to ensuring New York’s street vendors (the smallest businesses) recover from the unprecedented losses suffered in this pandemic.

We also look toward our future and the much-needed return to travel. As travelers, full of wanderlust and a desire to connect with people and cultures around the world, we must also consider how many lives have been affected by the disruption of the hospitality industry. The return to exploration abroad is needed for many reasons, but must be done safely. Thankfully, The Travel Corporation’s family of brands are offering immersive experiences for the traveler looking to safely experience unique destinations and make a meaningful difference.

Before the travel restrictions were imposed, NYC was one of my favorite weekend getaway destinations. The myriad of exciting experiences, multitude of diverse culinary offerings, and the city’s undeniable energy were intoxicating, but were not what hooked me. In the end, it was the people’s sense of community, vibrant neighborhoods, and creative spirit that fueled my passion for the city, luring me back time and again.

New Yorkers have unmistakable confidence that is easy to admire, but even more endearing are the quiet undertones of vulnerability and humble acts of kindness bestowed upon others at every turn. This city has endured and triumphed during the most challenging times, and this past year is no different.

I hope to see you soon.Stay safe. Stay well.

Office: 905-815-1500 info@globalheroes.com