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Unique Business Club Takes a Global View of Philanthropy and Social Impact

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A new initiative seeking to connect leadership with philanthropy and social responsibility is being introduced through the Unique Business Club (UBC), an initiative of the Federal International Chamber Forum (FICF). Envisioned by Dr. Ajit Ravi, under the guidance of FICF Chairman Shri Gokulam Gopalan and Patron Shri V. P. Nandakumar, the Unique Business Club aims to develop a national and global community where accomplished individuals can come together for contribution, collaboration and social impact. Its broader vision is centred on the belief that leadership should extend beyond professional success.

The Unique Business Club brings together individuals from diverse fields while placing strong emphasis on service, empowerment and community development. Its core principles — Integrity and Trust, Leadership and Excellence, and Service and Impact — provide the foundation for an initiative that seeks to encourage philanthropy, community service and global development. The framework also highlights collaboration across markets and sectors, creating a platform where collective knowledge and resources can be channelled towards meaningful social outcomes.

The philanthropic vision of the Unique Business Club is reflected in its contribution and allocation framework. The initiative outlines a voluntary annual contribution of ₹50,000 per member, with 75% directed towards women empowerment, social and sports causes. The detailed allocation includes charity and community service, women empowerment and sports, UBC programmes and emergency support, with transparency and audited financial records forming part of its governance approach. Through the guiding philosophy Connect, Collaborate, Contribute and Create Impact, the Unique Business Club presents a vision of leadership that seeks to generate positive change across communities and beyond borders.

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French priest accused of sexual assaults 17 years after death

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French Roman Catholic priest Abbé Pierre, a celebrated advocate for the homeless, has been accused of sexual assault 17 years after his death. Abbé Pierre, who passed away in January 2007 at the age of 94, is now alleged to have sexually assaulted or harassed seven women between 1970 and 2005. The Emmaus anti-poverty movement, which he founded, revealed the allegations and expressed belief in the women’s testimonies.

“These revelations have shaken our organizations, where the figure of Abbé Pierre plays a major role,” Emmaus stated on its website. “We all know his story and his message. These acts profoundly change the way we regard this man, who was known above all for his struggle against poverty, destitution, and exclusion.” The allegations have tarnished the posthumous reputation of Abbé Pierre, who was widely popular in France during his lifetime, even topping national popularity polls. His movement, Emmaus, has a global presence with hostels in numerous countries.

Following his death, then-President Jacques Chirac described Abbé Pierre as “an immense figure, a conscience, an incarnation of goodness.” Emmaus began investigating the allegations a year ago after receiving an account from a woman claiming to have been sexually assaulted by Abbé Pierre. This led to an inquiry by an external firm, which found six additional cases, including one involving a minor.

Emmaus acknowledged the bravery of the women who came forward, stating, “We believe them, we know that these intolerable acts have left their mark, and we stand by them.” The allegations dominated the headlines of the French press, with many expressing shock at the fall of such a revered figure. Libération, a left-wing newspaper, linked the scandal to the broader issue of the Catholic Church’s silence on sexual abuse, noting that before the MeToo movement, these allegations might have remained unheard.

Emmaus has established a confidential system to collect testimonies from anyone who experienced or witnessed “unacceptable behavior” by Abbé Pierre, offering guidance and support to those who come forward.

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