Opening Session

Digital Kids are Changing the World!

Michael Furdyk, Co-founder TakingITGlobal.org

With his own story as a powerful example, Michael Furdyk takes an in-depth look at the "Net Generation," born between 1980-2000, and how their use of technology is influencing many aspects of society. Michael will also discuss his work with TakingITGlobal, the world's largest online network of youth leaders, and their efforts to develop engaging, effective curriculum activities for schools around the world, to get students more engaged in global issues.

About Michael Furdyk

Michael Furdyk is the Co-founder of TakingITGlobal.org, a global online community for young people, engaging hundreds of thousands of youth from over 200 countries in global issues and international development. Michael has consulted for many Fortune 500 companies, including Hewlett-Packard and Microsoft, helping leadership teams understand the impact of the next generation of consumers and employees on their businesses.

As one of Teen People's year 2000 "20 Teens that will change the world,” Michael has presented on the topics of technology and youth engagement to the US Government's National Youth Summit, Microsoft's Anytime, Anywhere Learning Summit, and The US Business Council. He has appeared on The Oprah Winfrey Show and CNN, and been featured in Time Magazine, Fast Company, and BusinessWeek. He is currently an advisor to Microsoft, Future Possibilities, and Pollution Probe.