Every big change starts with a first page, so do all moonshots. An explorer taking a first step. Guiding you to places unknown. Everyone starts somewhere, with values, surrounded in a world of time and chance. Ideally, caring for the world we live in. Hopeful, passionate beings energized with a purpose, intentions and ideas. Excited by harmonious uncertainty. Science topics on the rise, urging new applications, finding a path. A first step to a brighter future.

The impact of technology is growing. You know it and we all feel it. With everything connected, it touches every one of us. Let’s ensure that the development of technology and its application is steered in the right direction, for the right reasons, improving the lives of not a few, but of all sentient beings.

Only together we can solve it.

Standing on the shoulders of those who came before us, we will shape the starting point for the ones who follow us, our next generation. Incentivize working on large problems, huge challenges. If you can only spend time once and you want to spend time well: Why not now? Why not you?

This is not the time for indifference, no place for nihilism. You are the change, no one is bigger than one individual. No one can grasp it all. Connect your enthusiasm to others.. Wander and wonder. We can’t wait to see what emerges. Time will tell. Thank you for being here, for joining us. You care.

Now go get it done. It’s waiting.
Be the change you wish to see in the world.

— Diederick Croese