Peter Bladin, Grameen Foundation’s executive vice president for programs and regions, was today named one of the finalists for the 2009 Integral Fellows program awards by the Microsoft Alumni Foundation.
November 16, 2009 - A cornerstone of the Foundation, the Integral Fellows program recognizes Microsoft alumni who have dedicated their lives to creating something extraordinary to help address challenges around the world. Three award winners will be recognized by Bill and Melinda Gates at the Founders' Gala on November 18, 2009. The winners will receive a $25,000 unrestricted grant for their nonprofit organization, as well as the talents and skills of alumni to help support their ongoing efforts.
A native of Sweden, Bladin worked for over 10 years at Microsoft managing various projects and departments during his tenure. He joined Grameen Foundation in 2001 as the founding director of its Seattle-based Grameen Technology Center. Under his helm, the Technology Center has led the microfinance industry and the ICT for development field in driving relevant and appropriate technology innovations that benefit people living at the “bottom of the pyramid”. He assumed his current position of executive vice president in 2009.
In announcing the finalists, Jeff Raikes, chairman of the board of the Microsoft Alumni Foundation said, "Sixty-six very special men and women were nominated by their peers as Integral Fellows for their work deeply rooted in service and making a difference in people's lives. Today, I am honored to announce these six finalists. On November 18th, Bill and Melinda Gates and 350 fellow Microsoft alumni will gather to announce and celebrate the final three winners."
The judges panel for the award includes:
•Jimmy Carter, former President of the United States of America
•Bill Drayton, chair and CEO, Ashoka
•William H. Gates Sr., co-chair, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
•Pierre Omidyar, founding partner, Omidyar Network and founder and chairman, eBay Inc.
•Thomas J. Tierney, chairman and co-founder, Bridgespan Group