(CNN) Despite widespread global problems like hunger and malaria, Bill Gates has an optimistic outlook on the planet's future -- along with a few ideas on how to make it even better. In this video series, CNN meets the men and women bringing those ideas to life.

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Bill Gates is a man on a mission.

The 61-year-old co-founder of Microsoft, who has an estimated fortune of nearly $85 billion according to Forbes, is well known for his philanthropic work.

In an interview with CNN, recorded in October, Gates talked about his commitment to tackling disease and famine.

"Our foundation focuses on the diseases of poor countries such as malaria, HIV, diarrhea and pneumonia," Gates told CNN. The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation is investing millions in combating mosquito-borne diseases in Latin America.

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