Summary
The idea of benefiting the people at the bottom of the pyramid by working with those that are somewhat above that level in terms of their economic status and social power is a concept that is derided by many as somehow dishonorable if not an obvious sell-out to the dominant group in a given community. I make the case here that, when exercised carefully, great leverage can be gained by using those who are somewhat better off and in a better position to take some risk to demonstrate to others that there are some new ways of doing things that are worth trying. I draw from examples in Ghana, Kenya, Palestine and Armenia to illustrate the point.
If this idea is somewhat provocative, I have satisfied my intent. Readers who have experience either supporting or contradicting this view are invited to join the conversation by making an entry in the comments box at the end of this post.
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