From 2019 to 2023, Reboot the Future partnered with Franklin University Switzerland to deliver the Golden Rule Leadership Masterclass, an annual initiative hosted at Franklin’s Lugano campus. This programme, co-developed by Reboot the Future, integrates the principles of values-based leadership and the Reboot speaker network to inspire the next generation of business leaders. Centered around the Golden Rule—"treat others and the planet as you would wish to be treated"—the course equips graduate students with the tools to reimagine leadership and foster a life economy.

• Inspire young business leaders to align their leadership practices with values that support ethical decision-making and sustainability.
• Introduce nature-inspired leadership and the Golden Rule as core frameworks for leading responsibly in a complex global economy.
• Empower students to integrate ethical and values-based conversations into their professional and personal lives.

Over four days, students participated in workshops, seminars, and immersive experiences designed to blend theory and practice. Highlights included:

Leadership & Nature :

• Barbara Bulc (Founder, Global Development Impact) introduced the quadrilateral leadership model—responsible, collaborative, compassionate, and courageous.
• Dr. Darja Dubravcic, an expert in biomimicry and circular economy, connected remotely to explain nature-inspired leadership practices that promote planetary and human well-being.

Immersive Nature Day:

• Anthony Bennett (CEO, Reboot the Future) and Kim Polman (Co-founder, Reboot the Future) led sessions in the Swiss natural landscapes atop Monte San Salvatore, exploring the relationship between nature, the Golden Rule, and leadership values.

Golden Rule in Leadership:

• Philip Clothier shared insights on values-based leadership and cultural transformation, focusing on aligning professional goals with the UN SDGs.
• John Perkins (author of Confessions of an Economic Hit Man) discussed the Values of a Life Economy and the importance of redefining success in business.

Conversation Methodology:

• Students experimented with leading conversations using innovative techniques and structures.
• Paul Polman, former CEO of Unilever, delivered a guest lecture on Net Positive, emphasizing principles and practices for systemic transformation to create a sustainable future.

• Student Transformation: Participants reflected deeply on their values, redefining their leadership aspirations and aligning them with the Golden Rule.
• Skills Development: Practical methodologies empower students to lead meaningful conversations and embed ethical practices in their leadership style.
• Expanded Perspectives: Guest lectures and immersive activities provided systemic insights into sustainability and values-driven leadership.
• Broader Impact: The masterclass created ripple effects within the Franklin community, extending its lessons to external participants and fostering broader conversations about ethical leadership.