Next Generation: Affecting the World

Ben Briggs: From Adventure to Influence

Thirty-four-year-old Ben Briggs loves adventure, and his parents are quick to confirm that he’s had a thrill-seeking streak since his earliest days. Bungee jumping, cliff diving, rock climbing – you name it, Ben would do it.

While his gutsy nature always got him in trouble as a youngster, in 2004 it manifested in a more meaningful way: at twenty-five years of age, he relocated to China to start a factory from scratch.

Ben’s China story began when he was studying Computer Science, Studio Art, and International Business at Wake Forest University and decided to spend a summer abroad with his buddies. After surviving a few jolts of culture shock – like having to eat traditional noodles for his first breakfast – he found learning the language to be a “thrilling challenge,” and a love for Asia began to emerge.

A few years later, an opportunity arose for Ben to open a Chinese factory for the Barrington Group, a Dallas-based company that produces high-end leather gifts, such as President Obama’s personal captain’s bag. With much prayer and counsel, Ben agreed.

As the young man continued his journey and grew in his faith, he developed a deep desire to make a difference.

“Our team seeks to positively influence all who we encounter, which includes employees at the factory, other factories that supply components to us, the government agencies we deal with and the orphanage down the street that we support,” said Briggs.

Not only do Ben and his company look at the big picture, but they also care for each individual, like Shadrach, the homeless beggar that Barrington hired and helped to become a productive member of society, and CeCe, their deaf and mute seamstress.

Ben is still a big risk-taker at heart, but today he also walks with a strong sense of wisdom and purpose – a powerful combination that is truly affecting the globe. For example, last year he was invited to speak at a conference in New Zealand about harnessing the powers of business to positively impact communities. The conference was aimed at aspiring young businesspeople, many who were surely strengthened and encouraged by Ben’s out-of-the-box experience.

“I believe the private sector can have a huge impact on the world if we professionals can learn to be more intentional in our work,”Briggs commented.

“As I grow older, I hope that I can learn more, do more, network more and influence more.”

He plans to return to Dallas this fall to earn an MBA, eager to acquire the accounting, marketing and organizational skills that will empower him to make a greater difference in the days to come.