The 2023 Pan American Games, or the Magic of a Shared Purpose

The 2023 Pan American Games, or the Magic of a Shared Purpose

Purpose is defined as an organization’s reason for being—a commitment not only to achieving strong business results but also to making a positive impact on the world and society. When organizations or companies define and develop their purpose, there are four key questions that guide the discovery process: How can we contribute to a better society? What can we do to improve people’s quality of life? How can we help address the needs and pain points of the industry in which we operate? And what are we good at—or what can we be good at?

What does this have to do with the Pan American Games that just ended in our country?

In an interview in June of this year, published on the Santiago 2023 website, Harold Mayne-Nicholls, executive director of the Santiago 2023 Pan American and Parapan American Games, was asked what his goal was for these games. He replied: “To unite all Chileans behind a common cause, to stir up the excitement that these competitions bring in the hearts of the Chilean people, and to convey the importance of sports in our childhood and youth for our future development.”

He did not mention the resources involved, meeting deadlines, efficiency, infrastructure, logistics, or medals and awards. His goal clearly addressed the questions of purpose: to unite Chileans, to inspire them, and to convey the importance of sports in people’s lives.

While the games were underway, Santiago 2023 produced a simple video compiling the responses of various attendees to a single question: “How would you define Santiago 2023 in one word?” The result is a collection of concepts—some of which recur—that describe the experience, the mark, and the impact these Games have had on them: pride, unity, connection, legacy, hope, spectacular, thrilling, motivation, joy, exciting, and unforgettable.

Regardless of any difficulties, controversies, mistakes, or successes throughout the Games, it’s worth focusing on the positive impact of having had a magical, uplifting, and transformative purpose surrounding this important moment for our country.

Carmen Montes