Be Useful

Arnold Schwarzenegger is a global icon- a titan of public life, sports, and entertainment. An immigrant with few resources, except those that really mattered- a vision, a fire in the belly, and an undeniable charisma, his story is one of classic inspiration and the power of the American dream. He is known all over the globe for his many accomplishments- world-champion bodybuilder, Hollywood action hero, successful businessman, environmentalist, philanthropist, best-selling author, and California’s 38th Governor.

This world-famous athlete and actor was born in Thal, Austria in 1947, and by the age of 20 was dominating the sport of competitive bodybuilding, becoming the youngest person ever to win the Mr. Universe title. With his sights set on Hollywood, he emigrated to America in 1968, and went on to win five Mr. Universe titles and seven Mr. Olympia titles before retiring to dedicate himself to acting. His big break came in 1982 when the sword and sorcery epic Conan the Barbarian hit box office gold, and in 1984, Schwarzenegger blew up the screen as the title character in James Cameron’s sci-fi thriller, The Terminator. To date his films have grossed over $3 billion worldwide.

In 2003, Schwarzenegger became the 38th Governor of the State of California in a historic recall election, and as governor ushered in an era of innovative leadership and extraordinary public service. His legacy includes California’s status as a world leader in renewable energy innovation, technological development and deployment, and he has been rewarded for his great leadership and vision many times over in many arenas, including the Simon Wiesenthal Center’s “National Leadership Award” and the American Council On Renewable Energy’s “Renewable Energy Leader of the Decade.”

But it is Schwarzenegger’s commitment to giving something back to his state and to his country through public service that gives him the most satisfaction; donating his time, energy, and personal finances to serving others all over the world. Schwarzenegger acts as Chairman of the After School All-Stars, a nationwide after-school program, and serves as coach and international torch bearer for Special Olympics. Since leaving office, also Schwarzenegger co-founded the R20 Regions of Climate Action, a global non-profit dedicated to helping subnational governments develop, implement, and communicate the importance of low-carbon and climate resilient projects as well as their economic benefits.