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We are not here to save the world. We are here to build it—together, with humility and respect.

Jacqueline Novogratz

Acumen’s 20th Anniversary Speech, 2021 · Checked on 4 March 2026
We are not here to save the world. We are here to build it—together, with humility and respect.

Analysis

In Jacqueline Novogratz’s 20th‑anniversary address for Acumen (June 2021), she spoke about building a more equitable world with humility and collaboration, but the precise phrasing “We are not here to save the world. We are here to build it—together, with humility and respect.” does not appear in the official transcript or video. The statement appears to be a paraphrase or condensation of her broader message.

Background

Jacqueline Novogratz, founder of Acumen, delivered a keynote at Acumen’s 20th‑anniversary event in 2021, emphasizing partnership, humility, and systemic change rather than a “saving the world” mentality. Media outlets and Acumen’s own blog summarized her talk, often using similar language, leading to the creation of the quoted phrase.

Verdict summary

The quote captures the spirit of Novogratz’s remarks but is not an exact verbatim from the 2021 speech.

Sources consulted

— Acumen.org, “Jacqueline Novogratz 20th Anniversary Speech – Full Transcript” (June 2021)
— YouTube video: Acumen – 20th Anniversary Celebration (Jacqueline Novogratz keynote, 2021)
— Forbes article, “Acumen’s 20‑Year Impact: Jacqueline Novogratz on Building a Better Future” (June 2021)