FIP 41: World Toilet Day with Jack Sim

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Jack Sim, Founder of the World Toilet Organization (WTO) has been a successful businessman for all of his adult life. After achieving financial success in his 40s, he felt a strong desire to give back to humanity.

Jack found that toilets were often neglected and grew concerned that the topic was draped in embarrassment and taboo. In 1998, he established the Restroom Association of Singapore (RAS) whose mission was to raise the standards of public toilets in Singapore and around the world.

Jack soon realized that there were other organizations worldwide like RAS, however, they lacked the channels to collaborate and share ideas. As a result, in 2001, Jack founded the World Toilet Organization (WTO), eventually earning himself the nickname Mr. Toilet.

On this podcast, we will cover:

Jack’s interest in tackling a problem that most people felt uncomfortable talking about and how he began to shift this taboo.
The origins of World Toilet Day (November 19) and how to be opportunistic when seeking partnerships.
The importance of relinquishing credit as a leader and remaining humble. Jack talks about creating a negative space that champions can sign up to eradicate, rather than focusing on being recognized for individual efforts.
How to get almost anything for free! While you don’t have resources, you do have a reputation and a story that businesses may want to align with.
How to leverage your story to bring attention to your cause. “If you don’t publish, you perish” Academics need to write, ask them how you can help! Helps bring credibility to your cause too.
The importance of being mission driven and removing individuals from the equation. “You are not the important thing, the mission is the important thing.”

Links to resources:

Connect with Jack:

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