Born Paul David Hewson in Dublin, Bono, the lead singer of the legendary Irish rock band U2, has made an indelible mark on both music and global activism. Meeting bandmates the Edge, Larry Mullen Jr., and Adam Clayton during their school years, Bono helped form U2 in 1978.
Beyond his role in U2, Bono is a pioneering activist. As a leader in Jubilee 2000’s Drop the Debt campaign, he addressed global economic inequality by advocating for debt relief for developing countries. His activism then expanded to tackle HIV/AIDS and extreme poverty. Bono co-founded the sister organizations ONE and (RED), focusing on these critical issues. Through ONE, Bono has lobbied heads of state and legislatures worldwide, ensuring the implementation of global health and development programs, notably the U.S. PEPFAR AIDS program, which has saved over 25 million lives in the past 20 years.
(RED), which collaborates with companies to raise awareness and funds for the AIDS crisis, has generated more than $750 million for the Global Fund to combat AIDS in Africa. Bono’s innovative approach to activism through corporate partnerships has significantly impacted the fight against AIDS.
In addition to his philanthropic endeavors, Bono co-founded the Rise Fund, a global impact fund that invests in entrepreneurial companies driving positive social and environmental change in alignment with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. This venture highlights Bono’s commitment to sustainable development and his belief in the power of entrepreneurship to effect meaningful change.
Bono’s contributions to music and activism have earned him numerous awards and honors. Along with U2, he received the Freedom of the City of Dublin, recognizing their influence and dedication to their home city. The French government awarded him the Légion d’honneur, and he was honored with an honorary British knighthood. Bono also received the Fulbright Prize for International Understanding and was named TIME magazine’s Person of the Year alongside Bill and Melinda Gates.
Bono’s legacy is defined not only by his musical achievements but also by his relentless pursuit of justice and equality. His efforts have brought significant advancements in global health, poverty alleviation, and social entrepreneurship, making him a true champion of humanitarian causes.
source: one.org