Bunker Roy Speaking Fee: $10,000 and Below

Sanjit “Bunker” Roy is an Indian social activist and educator renowned for founding the Barefoot College in 1972. Situated in Tilonia, Rajasthan, the college was conceived as a grassroots initiative to address the challenges faced by rural communities, including illiteracy, poverty, and lack of access to basic services. Roy's vision was to create an institution that emphasized practical skills over formal degrees, focusing on empowering individuals through hands-on learning and community-driven solutions. Under Roy's leadership, Barefoot College has pioneered several innovative programs. One of the most notable initiatives is the training of illiterate and semi-literate women, often grandmothers, to become solar engineers. These women, known as "Solar Mamas," are taught to assemble, install, and maintain solar energy systems, bringing sustainable electricity to their villages. This approach not only addresses energy needs but also promotes gender equality and community development. To date, the college has trained over 300 women from various countries, including India, Africa, and the Pacific Islands, impacting thousands of lives. Roy's commitment to rural empowerment extends beyond energy solutions. Barefoot College offers programs in areas such as water harvesting, health care, education, and women's empowerment. The institution operates on principles inspired by Mahatma Gandhi, emphasizing simplicity, self-reliance, and the value of traditional knowledge. Students learn through practical experience, and the college maintains a flat organizational structure, where no one earns more than $100 per month, ensuring that all staff are aligned with its mission of equitable development. Throughout his career, Bunker Roy has received numerous accolades for his work. In 2010, he was named one of Time magazine’s 100 most influential people in the world. He has also been honored with awards such as the Padma Shri, India's fourth-highest civilian award, and the Clinton Global Citizen Award in 2013. His innovative approach to education and rural development has inspired similar initiatives globally, demonstrating the transformative power of community-led solutions. Today, Bunker Roy continues to advocate for a model of development that is inclusive, sustainable, and rooted in the wisdom of rural communities. Through Barefoot College, he has shown that with the right support and opportunities, individuals from the most marginalized backgrounds can become agents of change, leading efforts to improve their own lives and those of their communities.