Queen Rania finds inspiration in jam

Apr 23, 2009, 10:35 GMT

Jordan's Queen Rania used a jar of homemade jam to illustrate her points at the 8th Annual Global Philanthropy Forum Conference.

Giving the keynote address at the event in Washington, the monarch stressed that "the need for global philanthropy is more urgent than ever before" before asking "How do we know when philanthropy is making a positive difference?"

Clutching the jam, she explained the answer could be found in the story of a nine-year-old Jordanian girl, Leila, who was asked to come up with a healthy breakfast for her schoolmates.

Leila collected uneaten apples from pupils and, with the help of her mother, made a large jar of jam which was served in school and then sold on at markets. All profits were donated back to the disadvantaged school.

The Queen commented: "Philanthropy means giving bold thinkers like Leila the chance to lift their whole community and to realise the power within themselves to change things for the better.

"When it comes to education, the power of philanthropy can be even bigger - not just within communities and countries but among them, stitching together humanity's frayed seams, especially at a time of global turmoil.

"Education is not only a problem, but also a solution - because when we look at the obstacles we face, education can help us overcome them all."

Rania also thanked participants for taking the time to attend the annual conference, which also celebrates Earth Day.

She added: "All of you here, through your commitment and compassion, are extending lifelines of hope. And more than that, you're tilling the soil from which social renewal can bloom."

Donors, social investors and agents of change from around the world are attending the conference to discuss global challenges including poverty, climate change, healthcare and access to education.