Reflection Post –W12: Becoming a Change-Maker

By Dieumerci T Kalonji 

This week’s exploration of Charles Handy’s article “What’s a Business For?” helped me better understand why virtue and integrity are essential components of a strong economy. In the first two pages, Handy emphasizes that trust is the backbone of any financial system. Without trust between businesses and customers, managers and employees, or investors and corporations, the entire economic structure begins to crumble. Virtue and integrity are crucial because they build the confidence needed for the marketplace to operate correctly. People need to trust that companies are being transparent, delivering genuine value, and treating all stakeholders with fairness. When that trust breaks down even through a few scandals it undermines the credibility of the whole system.

Handy also explains what he believes is the true reason businesses exist: to fulfill a purpose that goes beyond profit alone. While profit keeps a company alive, it is not the highest goal. Handy argues that businesses should aim to contribute positively to society solving problems, enriching communities, and creating value that reaches far beyond shareholders. This perspective positions business as a social and moral force, not merely a financial entity.

Two of Handy’s solutions especially resonated with me. One is his call to redefine business success, urging companies to evaluate their impact in broader terms rather than focusing solely on financial performance. I agree with this because companies influence people, communities, and the environment, so their mission should reflect these wider responsibilities. Another solution I support is his idea of increasing employee ownership and participation. Giving workers a real stake in the company builds accountability and encourages a stronger sense of commitment. When employees feel valued and included, they are more likely to act with integrity and support the organization’s long-term purpose.

Reflecting on the overall W12 lesson, I realized that becoming a change-maker begins with personal character. We are not just preparing to join the workforce we are preparing to make a meaningful difference within it. This week encouraged me to think about the type of leader I hope to become and how I can contribute to organizations that balance profit with principles and purpose.

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