The Genius of the Poor A Journey with Gawad Kalinga

by Thomas Graham

Following a serendipitous encounter with the founder of Gawad Kalinga (GK), Thomas Graham quit his job, moved out of his apartment and set off to discover GK communities all over the Philippines. The book is a heartfelt and often humorous account of a foreigner's life-changing journey in the Philippines. Whether in prisons, conflict areas or dangerous slums, Thomas became inspired by countless heroes that share one common dream -- to build a nation in which no Filipino is ever again left behind.

Genres: Nonfiction, Economics

Paperback

First published January 1, 2014

Reviews

[Apple Bennet]

I love this book! I just simple love it, Thank you Thomas for sharing this story to us, really inspiring.

[Seanny]

Makes you look at the poor and elimination of poverty in a different way. I will think about this book for a long long time.

[Cee San Luis]

This book brought more of an understanding of what it’s like living disenfranchized in the Philippines and how an organization is helping people in the worst areas how to make a life for themselves and promote well-being. A must read for conscientious people who went to understand what work Gawad Kalinga seeks out to do for fellow Filipinos and Filipinas.

[Joshua]

A testimony to real work. Work that honors all people and community, sees potential and opportunity in one’s backyard. Work that seeks to solve problems and not personal financial gain at the expense of others.

[Melissa Chong]

A pretty good insight to poverty and possible solutions in the Phillipines

[Chrisjohn]

#WalangIwanan

[Mike Grogan]

This is the best book ever written by a foreigner about the Philippines. I found myself gifting this book to 10 of my closest friend. A book that inspires you with the stories of extraordinary everyday heroes that are working passionately to make the Philippines a first world nation in our lifetime where no one is left behind. A must read for everyone who loves the Philippines.

[Alex]

I've had some exposure to Gawad Kalinga (I've visited a couple of villages, and my Dad loves volunteering with them) but I still learnt a lot about the issues and the people involved in eradicating poverty from this book. It's easy to read, and is filled with many interesting stories from the poor, rich, politicians, former gang members, young and old, and people from different faiths and nationalities. The author saturated the book with numerous experiences so it's a lot to take in. But it's a good introduction to Gawad Kalinga and explains well why the GK model has been successful and adopted overseas. I'm really glad that I read it.
As Tony Meloto, the founder of GK, said, "Come alongside the poor, befriend them, partner with them, and you will see their potential. But don't take my word for it - experience it for yourself"

[Robert Vidal]

Inspirational

I haven't read any book on social investment. This is an interesting idea. The book challenged me to see the poor in a different light but also leaves me wanting to experience the same life changing adventure Tom went through while living in the Philippines. I want to meet the characters in person because I feel like I already know them and care for them because of the way Tom has written about their lives . I want to know more. Hopefully, I can see these things for myself in the future. Hopefully, I can also have the heart to contribute to helping the poor. I hope more people will read this book and be moved to action.

[Joma Palana]

Inspiring book about how to help the poor, gained from experience and insights by Tony Meloto's work. Must read for Filipinos who are looking to help address the country's poverty, especially through social entrepreneurship.

[Kayla Doris]

Eye-opening book about poverty in the Philippines. Definitely recommend if you’re interested in social entrepreneurship (or if you’re planning to travel to the country and want a different perspective).

[Chris Zaens]

This is the Filipino proof of concept that social enterprises can lift those at the bottom of the pyramid.

[Mariony]

Thought-provoking book. Great collection of short chapters that summarize the principles and roadmap of GK and how they have influenced even highly developed countries. Highly recommended!

[Cheenee]

Inspiring book

[Anne De casa]

It is the kind of reading that is sad but quite entertaining too. It is really a must read for every Filipino.