Tim Jenkin is a South African academic and anti-Apartheid activist who was imprisoned for his support for the ANC in the 70s. After breaking out of prison and claiming political asylum in the UK, Tim helped set up an encrypted communication system to assist the ANC in its struggle for freedom.
Tim Jenkin then developed the Community Exchange System, which now consists of 750 more or less active communities in 70 countries around the world, with close to 50,000 active users.
The Community Exchange System (CES) is a community-based exchange system that provides the means for its users to exchange their goods and services, both locally and remotely, without money. It could also be described as a global complementary trading network that operates without money, as it is commonly understood.
Unlike the conventional money-based exchange system, the CES has no physical currency. The idea that such a currency is required before any trading can take place is an ancient one and increasingly irrelevant in this day and age of computers and the Internet. Information can replace currencies and at the same time eliminate most of the problems associated with regular money.
Tim Jenkin says: “I can go to Australia and get accommodation, food and transport and whatever I need. And I don’t have to take a credit card with me or convert dollars. I don’t have to understand anything about the exchange rate. I simply go there and get what I need.”
Tim says we need new currencies because, the “money system is at the root of most of the misery, suffering and problems faced by humanity. It is also the prime factor behind the environmental crises we face.”
There are many similar trading systems around the world, commonly know as Community Exchange Systems, Local Exchange Trading Systems (LETS), Mutual Credit trading systems or Time Banks.
Tim is accompanied on his Australian speaking tour by Karel Boele, Director of Jnana Australia and Independent Candidate for Griffith and South Brisbane. Karel is working with governments in NSW and SA to establish time banking networks.
“I believe a diversification of currency structures, many different types of currencies and many of them, can lead to improved lifestyles, less financial stress, and a more stable economy.“ says Karel.
“In the Central Coast of NSW, LETS schemes and Timebanks work side-by-side and complement each other. A vibrant but small CES system (BrisLETS) operates in Brisbane, maybe a well thought-out and comprehensive Time Bank to suit local conditions would complement it,” said Karel.
Tim Jenkin and Karel Boele will be conducting a Community Forum in West End, Brisbane, at 6.30 pm on the evening of Wednesday 27th May, at The Loft, 100 Boundary Street, West End.
More info: https://www.facebook.com/events/743708029073657/
Latest Comments