On Wednesday, 21^st May 2025, we had the pleasure of hosting another edition of our NGO Academy Keynote, this time with Dr. Christian Busch, professor at University of Southern California (USC) and fellow at London School of Economics (LSE) and award-winning book author, who presented his inspiring and eye-opening research on serendipity and cultivating good luck.

He opened with a powerful question: Do you consider yourself lucky or unlucky? That simple reflection reveals much about our mindset. According to Christian, if we view ourselves as lucky, we’re more likely to become lucky—because our perspective shapes how we engage with the world.

Christian’s own story is one of radical reinvention. After being kicked out of high school and surviving a severe car accident, he was propelled into a deep search for meaning. Inspired by Viktor Frankl’s Man’s Search for Meaning, Christian discovered that some of the most purpose-driven people aren’t just lucky—they’re masters of cultivating serendipity.

What is Serendipity?

Serendipity isn’t just happy coincidence—it’s “unexpected good luck that results from unplanned moments in which our actions lead to positive outcomes.” Imagine spilling coffee on someone. Do you awkwardly apologize and walk away, or start a conversation that might lead to a partnership, a friendship, or even love? That’s the potential of serendipity in action.

Christian broke it down into a clear, actionable process:

1. Serendipity Trigger – an unexpected event.

2. Connecting the Dots – interpreting the situation with curiosity and meaning.

3. Tenacity – having the courage to follow through.

Serendipity isn’t just about being in the right place at the right time—it’s about noticing, acting, and staying open.

Cultivating a Serendipity Mindset

Serendipity often begins with self-reflection. Are we open to unexpected interactions? Do we share what truly matters to us? Do we give others hooks to connect with us?

Christian encouraged us to prepare for meaningful conversations by identifying three things we care deeply about—so small talk can become real talk. And instead of asking, “What do you do?”, ask “What do you enjoy doing?” A subtle shift that invites passion and authenticity.

Creating Agency in Any Circumstance

Prof. Busch reminded us that not everyone starts from the same place in life. Some create serendipity from necessity, especially those facing poverty or marginalization. The goal is to work with what we have and build from it. Supporting others in creating agency is a powerful and sustainable form of impact.

He also addressed the mental roadblocks we face—fear of rejection, self-limiting beliefs. His advice: Reframe failure. What’s the worst that can happen if you dare to ask? Often, the true loss is inaction, regretting and thinking “what if I had asked?”.

A poignant concept Christian explored was zemblanity—the opposite of serendipity. It’s when we unwittingly create negative outcomes through our own choices. But even then, there’s hope. As he said, “If you want a happy ending, don’t stop the story too early.”

He reminded us to avoid toxic positivity, and that serendipity does not mean we should neglect negative events. We are living in tough and complex times, but Prof. Busch left us with a message of grounded hope: We can’t avoid every negative event—but we can choose how we respond. We can create meaning. We can cultivate serendipity.

You can watch the entire presentation, including the Q&A session here: