Originally published in Nikkei Asia's “Henry Kravis: My Personal History"
Chapter 30
Providing right opportunities, skills or education can change lives
I feel incredibly fortunate to have lived the life I have, and I'm deeply aware that much of my success stems from having access to a good education -- a privilege not everyone has. I would likely not be writing this series for Nikkei if I had been born into a different family and didn't have access to a good education.
Education is the cornerstone of unlocking human potential, and it's something I believe should be available to every individual, regardless of their circumstances. I have a great respect for the teaching profession but lament the fact that our education system in the U.S does not do a great job supporting teachers or education, and many children get left behind.
This belief drove me to get involved with Sponsors for Educational Opportunity (SEO), an organization that has profoundly impacted the lives of young people from underserved communities that I have chaired since 2014.
SEO is an incredible organization that has opened doors for countless young people, helping them overcome significant challenges such as poverty, discrimination and other adversities. The SEO Scholars program provides students with hundreds of hours of intensive instruction, building a community of excellence and achievement.
The results speak for themselves: an 85% college graduation rate, with many SEO Scholars attending and graduating from selective colleges at rates higher than even the wealthiest students in the U.S. This proves that a student's socio-economic background does not determine their ability to succeed.
Over the years, I've been involved in various philanthropic endeavors, always with the goal of giving others the chance to unlock their potential. I've seen firsthand how providing the right opportunities, skills or education can change lives and cultivate creativity.
Together with George Roberts, I have pursued a career in finance that has revolved around the idea of unlocking potential in people and, by virtue of them, in companies. That's what capitalism means to me.
It took time for me to understand the importance of balance in life, particularly when it comes to family. I've made mistakes, but I've also learned from them, and today, I'm a very happy man, not because of financial success, but because of the people in my life.
Finding true love with my wife, Marie-Josée, has been one of the greatest gifts of my life. I am beyond lucky to have found Marie Josée. And I am blessed with an incredible family, having had three children and now six grandchildren.
As I reflect on my journey, I am forever grateful to have always had George by my side. As I said in the beginning, my story is really our story. George influenced almost every decision I made in life and my friendship and kinship with him deeply influenced the man I am today.
In 50 years, I hope to be remembered not just as an industrialist but as someone who believed in the potential of people and worked to leave the world better than he found it.
There's still much to do, and I'm not slowing down. I continue to step out of my comfort zone, to meet new people, try new things, new restaurants and embrace new experiences. That's what keeps life exciting and meaningful for me.