LA philanthropist Dr. Cheryl Saban
Air Date: July 22, 2013
In the fifth episode of “Big Shots With Giselle Fernandez,” our short video series featuring business leaders and culture shapers from around the globe, Fernandez sits down with Dr. Cheryl Saban, the L.A.-based philanthropist, women’s rights advocate, glass artist, and wife of billionaire entertainment mogul Haim Saban. Though much of her time is dedicated to building a better Los Angeles, Saban was also appointed by President Obama to serve as a representative to the United Nations last year. What are the biggest issues we face on a global scale and in our own backyard? Saban cites the disparity of wealth and violence against women and children. She also offers some solutions that might help. Here are some highlights from the conversation:
Saban reveals she was both impressed and disheartened by her experience with the U.N. What surprised her the most? “[The U.S.] is not as persuasive as I always thought we were.”
Everybody has a stake in the welfare of those who are struggling economically in Los Angeles. “When they don’t get their needs met, the whole community doesn’t do well and it reflects on our city,” explains Saban, who sat on the L.A. Commission for Children, Youth and Their Families.
Saban believes that everyone has something to give. “I think if you put a little on a little, you do get a lot.” What’s one way Angelenos can make a difference? “You have to vote,” Saban says. “If you don’t use your voice in that way, you certainly won’t have a choice in anything.”