Remember those commercials  that featured The World's Most Interesting Man? Those Dos Equis ads were intended to be both humorous and outrageous. (I mean, seriously, my party banter never changed foreign policy. Has yours?) The ad agency says its rational for the strategy was, " He is a man rich in stories and experiences, much the way the audience hopes to be in the future."

I meet some of the world's most interesting people every day!

For example, there's the nurse who moved to the Philippines last month where she is providing competent and compassionate maternal healthcare in a midwifery clinic that serves the poor. Her recent letter back to the States was heartwarming and inspiring. She's doing what she's been educated and trained for while learning a new language and culture, making new friends and changing lives.

Then there's the retired couple. You'd never guess their age from their looks and passion to serve. They heard about the thousands of refugee in the Middle East that have been uprooted from their homes and forced to seek refuge in a foreign country. They're headed to Cyprus for three months to help with English language teaching, food distribution, and special outings and activities. They'll bring hope and transform lives as they give refugees a sense of peace and stability. I can't wait to hear all about it!

And I'd love to tag along with the photographers IDEAS is sending to India! I can see them clicking away, getting photos at our projects all while being fully immersed in Indian culture as they see, touch and taste all that India has to offer. Pass the curry and teach me how to take photos on something other than my iPhone, please!

Have you met any modern-day abolitionists lately? I have - It's the director of Relentless, a cutting edge project at the intersection of health and justice. Her skills as a pediatrician and her compassion to help survivors and their children define her as one of the global leaders in the modern anti-trafficking movement.

People like these folks, rich in stories and experiences, and on their way to more are truly the most interesting people in the world!

What kinds of people do you find interesting?

Posted by Shelley Laverty, IDEAS Recruiting and Placement Manager.

"I look for the best and the brightest and match them with opportunities in Asia, North Africa and the Middle East."

Email me at [email protected]