Shaklee Mourns Loss...

Shaklee Mourns the Loss of Our Beloved Partner
Dear Shaklee Family,

Today, the world mourns the loss of a great woman, and a true friend. Dr. Wangari Muta Maathai was a tireless pioneer and advocate for freedom, self-sustenance, and for what she called our “beautiful blue planet.” She was also a remarkable woman, a dedicated mother and grandmother, and a beloved member of our Shaklee family.

In each generation, there are a few who live their life with such passion, determination, and inspiration, that they make a lasting impact on millions of people. Wangari was such a person. She was the first woman from Central and East Africa to earn a doctorate degree and then became the first person to win a Nobel Peace Prize for the environment. Wangari did so by providing over a million people with the ability to earn an income by planting trees - and through her example and theirs, inspired the rest of the world to follow.

Wangari, a 2004 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, Founder of the Green Belt Movement, Honorary Shaklee Master Coordinator and Global Ambassador for Shaklee's "A Million Trees. A Million Dreams™" campaign. Dr. Wangari Muta Maathai joined Shaklee Chairman and CEO Roger Barnett in planting the One Millionth Tree.

It is difficult to express what Wangari Maathai has meant to me personally. It has been a privilege to know her. What I will remember most about her is her wonderful smile that would light up the darkest of days. And her gentle, but never-take-no for an answer, constant advocacy to rise up and do more for people and our planet. I will miss her deeply, but I know that her memory will remain vivid and strong for all of us. We will continue her legacy that each of us can make a difference, that we can be the hummingbird in the forest, doing what we can. And through the collective force and power of all 1.2 million members of the Shaklee Family, we too can make a difference that will last for generations.

Our prayers and heartfelt sympathy go to Wangari’s children Wanjira, Waweru, and Muta and to her granddaughter, Ruth Wangari. We offer them our love and support, and the certain knowledge that their mother’s work endures in all that we do.

Warmest regards,
Roger Barnett