Seth Kahan on Grand Challenges

Grand Challenges represent the wicked problems that society faces—complex, persistent, and difficult to solve due to incomplete, contradictory, and ever-changing demands. Yet, addressing them is essential for humanity and life on Earth to survive and thrive. My work is dedicated to confronting these monumental issues.

These challenges are too vast for any single mind to fully comprehend or solve. They are multi-dimensional, with deep systemic roots that are reflected in legislation, policies, social behavior, and even individual thoughts and mindsets. These factors limit our ability to effectively address them.

However, there are models and frameworks I’ve developed to help organizations and activists collaborate in making tangible progress. These stem from my experience at the World Bank, where I’ve witnessed both the successes and failures of multinational efforts, and from my work with Grand Challenges in sectors that include maternal health in Kenya, earth science, finance, nursing, and mental health.

Guest

Dale Cyr

Dale Cyr is the Chief Executive Officer of Inteleos, a global nonprofit dedicated to advancing patient safety by certifying healthcare professionals’ proficiency in diagnostic tools—most notably, medical ultrasound. Under his leadership, Inteleos has grown to certify over 150,000 professionals in more than 100 countries, transforming how clinical competency is validated worldwide. Cyr is a passionate advocate for lifelong learning in healthcare and a pioneer in adapting certification models to rapid technological shifts, including the rise of handheld ultrasound and artificial intelligence.

Cyr spearheaded the Ultrasound Proficiency Grand Challenge, a bold initiative to ensure global competency in point-of-care ultrasound by 2030. His work in Kenya, led to a national policy mandating ultrasound training and certification, exemplifying his belief in shared-value ecosystems and cross-sector partnerships.

Guest appearance on:

“Grand Challenges” – A Visionary Conversation with Dale Cyr, CEO of Inteleos