G-20 focus on jobs ... the Pittsburgh promise

The International Transport Worker's Federation published this news story about a declaration asking the G-20 leaders to focus on jobs when they meet in Pittsburgh next week.  Indeed, I cannot think of a better city to begin a conversation around renewal and recovery. 

The legendary steel city of Pittsburgh saw a drastic decline in the late 1970's when the industrial economy slowed down and gave way to the information economy.  Despite the presence of a world class university such as Carnegie Mellon, Pittsburgh struggled to re-establish its position as a world leading city.  By 1988, 61% of its jobs were gone.  Vanished.  Today, Pittsburgh stands as proof of what vision, guts and execution can deliver.  While it might not have gone back to its glory days, it clearly has emerged as a winner. 

None less than the Washington Post declared earlier this year, that Pittsburgh can be a model for Detroit. 

At Ikembu, we believe that it is important to have a global outlook.  Looking beyond our own neighborhood and city can give us provocative and powerful ideas.  Possibly even an opportunity or two.  So, lets Ikembu, shall we?