“Good evening, everyone. Let me start by thanking you, Hiba, for that overly kind and generous introduction, and also for your commitment to service. And Liz, of course it goes without even saying, that you deserve a hand of applause, and the entire team at CorpsAfrica, for bringing us together tonight.

Liz is somebody you can’t say no to. As I know every single one of you in the room who have engaged with her know, “no” is not in her vocabulary. Now, my staff will tell me, that no is not in my vocabulary either, but I actually tried to say no to Liz for tonight. So, you see where I am.

During high-level week, there are thousands of demands on your schedule. And Liz hooked me very, very early. Despite the fact that I said, I don’t think I can do this, Liz. I’m really happy that I’m here. I’m happy that you did not take no for an answer. It’s really great to see so many familiar faces in the room and distinguished leaders, from our volunteers to all of the rest of you…”