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 Two years ago, I reached out to Global Citizens Circle (GCC) with a simple goal: To grow as a leader. Little did I know, it would become a catalyst for my mission to empower young changemakers. I have since co-facilitated three of our Emerging Leaders programs and most recently, with Abdi Nor Iftin, who I became quite interested in after reading his book, “Call Me American.” I felt empowered and reached out to one of GCC’s Global Advisors, Pamme Boutselis, who knows Abdi from when he spoke at TEDxAmoskeagMillyard, an organization she is also involved with. She was able to connect us – Theo Dunfey, Phoebe de Larrabeiti and me – to Abdi, who later shared in a powerful discussion in an Emerging Leaders program on the topic of resilience. This speaks to what GCC is, a platform of interconnectedness with people passionate about making positive change; indeed, making it a small but mighty organization.  GCC has given me a platform to turn inspiration into action – proof its mission to equip leaders at every level. When I joined, I wanted to bridge the gap between GCC’s legacy and the next generation. Outreach to young people wasn’t just a goal – it became my passion. We’ve since had emerging leaders from Afghanistan, Peru, the Philippines, Morocco, Nigeria, the U.S., Cameroon, Syria, Bangladesh, and Nepal join us. This work mirrors Jerry Dunfey’s, GCC's founding president, original spark – empowering others to lead, no matter their age. At 90, Jerry’s 50-year journey with GCC is a testament to what one visionary can achieve. I joined at 20, and it’s impossible not to wonder: What could the next 50 years hold? But GCC’s future isn’t automatic. In 50 years, who will carry this mission forward? Without intentional investment in young leaders today, what remains of the organization tomorrow? That’s where the Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) comes in. It’s not just an initiative – it’s GCC’s lifeline to the future. The Emerging Leaders Program identifies and connects young leaders to GCC’s network and resources, ensuring the mission outlives its founders. Every young leader we empower today is a seed for GCC’s next era. Jerry built GCC with the audacity to think decades ahead. Now, it’s our turn. If you believe in legacy, mentorship, or the power of youth leadership, this is your invitation to join us. I don’t know what the next 50 years hold, but I know this: GCC’s story is still being written – and its future authors are the emerging leaders we nurture today. As a dedicated mental health advocate and counseling psychology student, Stanley Asango is committed to promoting mental health and wellbeing. Through his active involvement with nonprofit organisations like Miracle Corners of the World Global (MCW Global) and Global Citizens Circle (GCC), he has honed his leadership skills and gained a global perspective. These experiences have fueled his passion for making a positive impact on mental health, both nationally and internationally. Stanley's goal is to leverage his knowledge and skills to drive meaningful change and support communities in achieving better mental health outcomes. Please note: Each week, we invite members of the greater Global Citizens Circle community to contribute to GCC Voices. The views and opinions expressed in each blog post are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Global Citizens Circle. Jerry Dunfey built GCC with the audacity to think decades ahead. Now, it’s our turn. If you believe in legacy, mentorship, or the power of youth leadership, this is your invitation to join us.   On April 2, 2025, GCC's President and Executive Director Theo Spanos Dunfey was awarded The Fitzwater Center Medallion for Leadership in Public Communication at Franklin Pierce University's Marlin Fitzwater Center for Communication. Theo delivered The Medallion Lecture: "I'm No Expert: Confessions of a Generalist." Here's what she had to say. Before I begin with what I prepared several months ago when this event was originally supposed to take place, I want to first acknowledge how much has changed and continues to change every day since then. Changes that I believe are leading our country into unknown, and frankly frightening, territory in terms of our democracy, freedom of speech and civil discourse. I’m not going to address these issues directly – we hear about them everywhere, all the time from historians, political pundits, journalists and other so-called experts. Today, I’d like to speak with you about being a generalist, and I hope it will resonate with you as we all think about how we navigate these troubled waters. How did I end up here – accepting an award for communication? You see, I was this very shy little girl from Claremont, New Hampshire who relied on her sister (who’s sitting here in the audience) to speak for me. If someone asked me what my name was and how old I was, my sister would confidently answer: “Her name is Theo and she’s 5-years-old. I’m Kass and I’m 6!” I probably let this dynamic go on much too long, but that’s a story for another time and, honestly, for a therapist to hear.  Theo and Kass  Phoebe de Larrabeiti and Theo Spanos Dunfey The irony sure isn’t lost on me that I’m receiving the Fitzwater Medallion for Leadership in Public Communication but let me say what an honor it is to have been chosen for this award. I want to thank Sean O’Kane, chair of the board of Global Citizens Circle and former trustee of Franklin Pierce University, for first introducing me to the amazing Kristen Nevious, Director of the Fitzwater Center, who then introduced me to the very generous Christina Cliff, associate professor of political science and security studies. Together, along with Phoebe de Larrabeiti, assistant director for Global Citizens Circle, we worked on a series of critical issue discussion guides to accompany edited videos of Circle programs on topics such as monuments and their power to unite and to divide, the hard realities of police reform, as well as healing divisions and finding our common humanity. Neither Kristen nor Christina ever asked for anything in return but gave us confidence and the skills to begin a project that would allow hard but critical conversations to continue beyond our 90-minute programs, making them available to a wider public audience. For their help and friendship, I am most grateful. Let me also thank Marlin Fitzwater, whose prescience to found the Fitzwater Center “to prepare students for the responsibilities of inspired leadership and service in vibrant public discourse” is a lasting gift to Franklin Pierce University, to its students and scholars, and to the state of New Hampshire. As a native New Hampshirite and someone whose career began just about the same time that Mr. Fitzwater was establishing himself as a leader in political communications, I remember him well and I’d like to think that his passion for presidential politics was in the crisp NH air when I returned to Claremont after college for my first “real” job in a presidential primary campaign in 1983. It was just prior to this that my story of being a generalist really starts. I went to college and studied international affairs, which was a mix of courses in political science, economics, history, and anthropology. These weren’t the kinds of courses (except for history) that I had learned about at Stevens High School. I needed to know something about all of them before I could decide what I would really want delve into. Four years later, when I graduated, I realized I wasn’t an expert in any one discipline, though I felt I’d had a well-rounded education and that I’d enjoyed learning a little about a lot of topics. So, what else could I do but go home and work on a presidential campaign and use my broad knowledge to help organize and persuade people to support my candidate. Of course, that was a challenge too, because I still had those shyness tendencies and making cold calls to potential voters was something I really had to get used to. Though my candidate, astronaut and senator John Glenn, lost in the NH primary, I had found my voice, if not any particular expertise. Continuing a bit longer in NH politics, I worked on a gubernatorial campaign, before I decided to go back to studying international affairs. This time I thought, I’ll come out with a master’s degree that would convey on me a certain sense of expertise. I got a master’s in law and diplomacy from the Fletcher School at Tufts University. Sounds pretty expert, don’t you think? Guess what? I’m neither a lawyer nor a diplomat, nor have I ever been. Why that’s the name of the degree, I don’t know because Fletcher is a school that distinguishes itself for turning out generalists. I had to pick three fields of study, not one concentration – I chose international development, US diplomatic history, and international communications. Again, just as I had as an undergraduate, I learned a little about a lot. And no, I’m not diminishing that – I’m getting to my point really. And that is that being a generalist offers unique strengths in communication by fostering adaptability, empathy, and the ability to connect ideas across disciplines, with storytelling as a key tool. So why did I feel, and, to be honest, still sometimes feel, that I should be an expert in something? I believe there’s societal pressure to specialize. Society often equates expertise with authority. We live in a world that celebrates specialists. Think about it—doctors, scientists, engineers—they’re revered for their deep expertise. But with specialization comes a challenge: communication. Specialists often fall into "expert blind spots," using jargon or focusing so narrowly on their field that they struggle to connect with others outside their domain. I’ve felt this firsthand. In conversations with specialists, I’ve sometimes been overlooked because I didn’t have a single label—like “data analyst” or “Middle East expert.” Yet, what I’ve learned is that this lack of a defined niche allows me to see things from multiple perspectives. And here’s the problem with hyper-specialization: when we don’t communicate effectively, we limit innovation, collaboration, and progress. That’s where generalists step in. Being a generalist means being adaptable, empathetic, and able to see the bigger picture. First, adaptability. Generalists excel at translating complex ideas for diverse audiences. For instance, I once explained what it means to be a global citizen to a group of emerging leaders by comparing it to a conversation at a Global Citizens Circle program. I explained how open and honest discussions, even when they are about hard topics (which is really what Global Citizens Circle is all about), help everyone to understand our shared humanity. It isn’t just about simplifying; it’s about making the information relatable. Second, empathy. When you’ve dabbled in multiple fields, you start to understand the challenges and perspectives of different groups. This makes you a bridge-builder. I’ve worked to bring people of differing backgrounds, races, religions, and opinions together for respectful dialogue that advances solutions to problems that sometimes seem intractable. By reframing their disagreements as dialogue rather than debate, I’ve helped people find common ground. Finally, big-picture thinking. Specialists dive deep, but generalists connect the dots. We see patterns, relationships, and opportunities that others might miss. This broader perspective makes conversations richer and more dynamic. It also helps us form relationships and identify partnerships that provide give and take and benefit all. Here’s where storytelling comes in. Stories are universal. They break down barriers and make abstract concepts relatable. As generalists, we’re uniquely positioned to craft multidimensional stories because we draw on diverse experiences. For example, I’ve had the privilege through Global Citizens Circle to meet and converse with world leaders, local activists and emerging leaders from all over and from different sectors, and when I tell others about these interactions, I’m able to speak about them on a human level because I’ve listened to their stories even more than to their expertise, and this allows others to understand the shared humanity that doesn’t put one person above another. Stories don’t just explain; they inspire. And for generalists, they’re a way to translate the value of our diverse knowledge into something that resonates with everyone. This is why when we begin a Global Citizens Circle program, we always ask our discussion leaders to start with a personal story that relates to the topic at hand. It may be, “why did you get involved in this issue? And what has kept you going even when you thought you wanted to quit?” It’s through these kinds of questions that we hear answers that are relatable and have the power to inspire others. Of course, being a generalist isn’t always easy. Sometimes, I’ve felt like an outsider in conversations dominated by specialists. I’ve struggled with imposter syndrome, questioning whether I’m “enough” without a defined expertise. But here’s what I’ve learned: being a generalist is not about knowing everything. It’s about being curious, adaptable, and willing to learn. It’s about asking the right questions, connecting people, and telling and listening to stories that bridge gaps. The reward? Seeing people collaborate in ways they couldn’t before. Watching ideas flourish because you helped connect the dots. That’s the magic of being a generalist.  Theo Spanos Dunfey, Ukrainian Nobel Peace Laureate Oleksandra Matviichuk, and Phoebe de Larrabeiti Let me leave you with one final story. I never imagined as that shy little girl from a mill town in New Hampshire that I would travel the world and in so doing have opportunities to impact positive change. I never thought I would be able to help a young Afghan woman to leave Afghanistan to come to the US where she could get the education she wasn’t allowed in her country. I couldn’t imagine I’d meet a young Syrian peacebuilder who travelled with me to the west coast of Africa this past October for a peace conference and was so inspired to learn more about Africa that he is hoping to do a master’s program in African studies so that he can use lessons from that continent to help him make change in his own country. And I wouldn’t have imagined I would ever feel confident enough to share lunch and conversation with a human rights lawyer and Nobel Peace Laureate from Ukraine. But those are all things that I’ve experienced in just the past few years. How did it happen? Well, I’ve used my knowledge and curiosity as a generalist. So, my message to you is this: Don’t underestimate the power of being a generalist. Embrace your unique ability to connect ideas, people, and disciplines. Use storytelling to bridge divides and inspire action. We may not be experts in one thing, but we are experts in weaving the threads of our experiences into stories that inspire, connect, and transform. And in a world that is clearly struggling to communicate in ways that bring out the best of humanity, that might just be the most valuable expertise of all. Thank you. When we don’t communicate effectively, we limit innovation, collaboration, and progress. By Theo Spanos Dunfey GCC Assistant Director Phoebe de Larrabeiti and I recently attended CSW69, which marks the 69th session of the Commission on the Status of Women, held at the United Nation Headquarters in New York. We are grateful to Marlyn Tadros, CEO and Executive Director of Digital Democracy Now for hosting GCC at UNCSW. A highlight was meeting one of GCC's Emerging Leaders, Nilab Ahmadi from Afghanistan, and celebrating her selection for the UN youth cohort. We enjoyed GCC Board member Priscilla Lee’s presentation on Afghan girls’ education and were deeply moved by a panel of survivors of sexual abuse and prostitution. Inspiring sessions featured young leaders and storytellers, while cultural moments included learning a Maori proverb and enjoying their singing. A final interactive session felt like a fitting celebration of our experiences and gave us hope for what’s to come. I hope you enjoy this video compilation of our time at CSW69. Theo Spanos Dunfey is president and executive director of Global Citizens Circle. She has over 30 years of global experience in non-profits, higher education, and international affairs. Dunfey is a graduate of the Fletcher School of Law & Diplomacy at Tufts University, where she earned a Master of Arts in Law and Diplomacy, concentrating on American diplomatic history, international communication, and international development. It was during her studies at the Fletcher School that she first began volunteering with Global Citizens Circle’s Boston programs. She also earned a bachelor’s in international relations and French at Brown University. With a primary focus on global issues, Dunfey taught international development at the University of New England, led student groups on global citizenship service-learning trips abroad, directed the World Affairs Council of Maine, and produced numerous global editorial conferences for The WorldPaper before taking the helm at Global Citizens Circle. I walk backwards into the future with my eyes fixed on my past.  By Kibar Moussoba I was sitting in my classroom on 9/11 when someone turned to me and said: “Kibar, was that you? What did you do? Was your dad flying that plane?” I froze. It took me a moment to even process what had just been said. The news had been playing on all TVs showing footage of smoke, destruction, and fear. And now, somehow, I was being linked to it. I didn’t have the words to explain how wrong that moment was. All I knew was that things were changing, and quickly. In the weeks and months after 9/11, I was no longer just a kid in high school. I was an Arab-American that constantly had to look over my shoulder. It didn't matter that I was 15 years old. It didn't matter that I was Christian. It didn't matter that I lived in rural New Hampshire with absolutely no connection to any terrorist organization. The bullying, name calling, and snickering at my expense continued longer than I care to explain. What I learned years later is this: when people don’t understand you, they create their own version of your story. And the best way to change that was to tell your own story before they tell it for you. For a long time, I stayed silent. I kept my head down. I knew that if I ignored the comments, they would simply go away. The following year, my English teacher announced a school-wide essay contest inviting students to share their reflections on 9/11 and what freedom meant to us. At first, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to participate. After all, I was not in a positive state of mind about this topic so I saw no reason to subject myself to this exercise. But, of course, the same day they announced this essay contest, the kid that was making my life miserable for a year decided to take another stab at me. I wrote the whole thing that night. I wrote about my family’s journey to America. About what it meant to leave behind a war-torn country. About how proud we were to become citizens. And about how, after 9/11, that sense of belonging was gone for me and most Arab-Americans in this country. When I was selected to read my essay in front of the entire school, I was terrified. The same students who had been bullying me, who had laughed, who had made me feel like an outsider — they would all be in that room. What felt like the next day, I stepped onto that stage as the last finalist to read their essay. I closed my eyes, and with slight anger in my voice I belted out the first words, "I was born during a war." Over the next 4 minutes I spoke about freedom from my lens, but what it could truly look like. I spoke about the façade of unity in this country. I spoke about pride and perseverance; how escaping war from my birth country only led to war in this country. When I finished, there was silence. I could practically hear the jaws hitting the floor. I was unsure if what I had just done was going to help me or hurt me, but the principal encouraged everyone to applaud and I walked off stage. As we exited the assembly, something unexpected happened. The one kid who led the charge at making my life miserable for the past year stopped me in the hallway. He looked at me, but didn't say anything this time. As he stuck out his hand, his blank face turned to remorse. He didn’t say a word. But he didn’t have to. That moment told me everything. He saw me. That moment taught me a lesson I will never forget: stories have the power to shift perspectives in ways that arguments never will. People fear what they don’t understand. When we don’t know someone’s story, we fill in the blanks with assumptions. The best way to break down bias is to make yourself known. Stories create connection. Facts inform. But stories connect. When someone hears your lived experience, they don’t just process information — they feel it. When you share your truth, you take back control. For a short amount of time, I let others define my identity. But telling my story helped me reclaim it. So, if you feel misunderstood — don’t allow yourself to shrink. Share your story. Let people see you. Because when they do, their perspective might change forever. We all have a story that could change someone’s perspective. My story brought me to the TEDx stage. Ask yourself, what’s one part of your story that others could benefit from hearing? Kibar Moussoba is the senior program manager of People Experience at Southern New Hampshire University, where he leads strategic Inclusive Listening initiatives to enhance employee engagement and equity, diversity, and inclusion. With a deep passion for fostering meaningful workplace experiences, he helps drive key initiatives aligned with the university’s strategic goals. Beyond his role at SNHU, Kibar is an award-winning entertainer and professional DJ, known for creating unforgettable experiences at events across New England and beyond. His love for music began at the age of five with piano lessons, and by 19, he had launched his professional DJ career with Main Event Entertainment. Originally from Beirut, Lebanon, but having spent most of his life in Southern New Hampshire, he developed his DJing skills early and quickly became a sought-after performer. His ability to blend diverse musical influences and craft dynamic atmospheres has made him one of New England’s top DJs. In addition to his professional commitments, Kibar serves on the Board of Directors for the Mental Health Center of Greater Manchester and has been recognized with several accolades, including the prestigious 40 Under Forty award in New Hampshire. He is also a TEDx speaker, sharing insights on resilience, perspective, and personal growth. A husband and father of two, Kibar balances his career with his dedication to family, mentorship, and making a meaningful impact in every space he enters. Please note: Each week, we invite members of the greater Global Citizens Circle community to contribute to GCC Voices. The views and opinions expressed in each blog post are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Global Citizens Circle. When we don’t know someone’s story, we fill in the blanks with assumptions. The best way to break down bias is to make yourself known. Stories create connection. Facts inform. But stories connect. When someone hears your lived experience, they don’t just process information — they feel it. When you share your truth, you take back control.  By Michael Lockett This past summer, I shared a bit about me and how I first got involved with Global Citizens Circle. I invite you to check out "The Not-So-Accidental Activist" if you haven't had the chance. If, like many of us, you're feeling a bit stuck these days, perhaps this video I created will spur you into action. You may start small, but you can still do big things. While International Women's Day was recognized on March 8, Global Citizens Circle has partnered with Southern New Hampshire University for a breakfast program on March 11, 2025, from 9-10:30 EST. You're welcome to attend in person (at the university's upper dining hall) or virtually. The details are available here. We hope you'll join us at this special Circle event: "From Crisis to Change: Addressing Gender-based Violence in Conflict Zones," featuring Theresa de Langis and Rashida Eltag Mohamed. Michael Lockett is a New York screenwriter, director, and sometimes producer, as well a member of Global Citizens Circle’s Board. A lifelong storyteller, Michael graduated from the University of Delaware with a degree in visual communications. After a stint in advertising, periodical design, and marketing/PR, he delved back into the longer storytelling forms with film and TV screenwriting. Although specializing in horror with dark, thought-provoking overtones, Michael is always prepared and happy to lend a hand or idea to make his or others' projects a success. Please note: Each week, we invite members of the greater Global Citizens Circle community to contribute to GCC Voices. The views and opinions expressed in each blog post are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Global Citizens Circle. Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed, citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” ― Margaret Mead  By Marguerite Mariama, Ph.D. Dr. Mariama was a featured speaker for our recent Circle, “Uniting in the Face of Fear: Building Transformational Alliances.” If you weren’t able to attend, the video is now available. The lived experiences of some elders like me know that LOVE is the answer. I know many of you are tired of the darkness that is engulfing our world, from endless international wars to political battles here in the United States. Most of us are fed up with the toxicity spewing from so many. We find ways to escape, but denial and retreat do not solve the problem. We do not have to live like this! We do not have to be consumed by darkness. With the love light residing within us all, we can lean into the darkness with beacons to expose its hollow foundation built on lies, obfuscation, projection, denial, bullying, and gaslighting. These are the hallmarks of fear. The antidote to darkness is light and love. A few months ago, I watched the series, “My Generation” with bright-eyed enthusiasm and great expectations. I loved revisiting my teen and early adult years of art and activism, spiritual and historical awakenings, and the richness of multi-cultural and multiracial coalitions. We were evolving and leaning into an understanding of our interconnectedness in this human experience. We were learning unconditional love. During the 60’s and 70’s, civil rights advocates, Black power activists, environmentalists, artists, hippies, and flower children enjoyed an informal bond. Borne from a desire to live free from war, and the autonomy to be our trueselves, as well as loving whom we wanted, we sought to create an inclusive world that celebrated our shared humanity. Characteristics such as truth, justice, empathy, peace, beauty, love, and joy, helped shape our behaviors towards one another.  Our songs and mantras spoke volumes: We shall overcome, Black Power, Praise the Red, the Black and the Green, peace and love, and make love not war rang out as soul-filled expressions resonating with joy and the promise of a bright future. Young and somewhat naïve, we believed we could bend our country towards an embrace of its full democratic potential. The series “My Generation” ended with a message suggesting that we Baby Boomers had all abandoned the exquisite principles that shaped us and the world we were crafting. According to the producers, we sold out, bought in, or surrendered to a status quo that was rife with consumerism and greed. Of course, not all of us fit that description or played that game. Yes, that happened to have been the case for many, but some of us resisted the devouring of our Divine energy. As an artist, I saw the potential to opt on to the band wagon as soul stealing. Truth, purpose, beauty, and a love of people, using my art as a primary vehicle, fueled my passion. I kept going – bobbing, and weaving into several roles, and degrees, all the while the encroachment of oppressive forces were just around the next corner, ready to offer riches and comfort in exchange for my soul. I resisted then and continue to do so today. There are many others who also stayed the course and are still around actively working, and or mentoring younger generations. Our stories were omitted in the series, but “we know what time it is.” This is a term coined by activists during the 1960’s to mean the importance, ramifications, and consequences of what is happening at the moment. It also implies an understanding of what we must do to survive and thrive. The African adage, “The young can run fast but the elders know the way” reflects this way of knowing. Those of us who made it through American apartheid – Jim Crow, segregation, learned lessons that will help guide us through what is now shaping into a 2025 version of this atrocious period in history. That knowing underscores the importance of love, the bedrock for our survival and ability to thrive.  For some, the idea of love is vague. But that is not true for those of us who have lived through apartheid or fascism – especially Black women, who have remained rooted in love. Some have said, God is love, the source of the ultimate power, the highest vibration. I agree. Love is a verb that suggests an active participation in exhibiting a host of characteristics including kindness, joy, abundance, prosperity, balance, order, truth, justice, beauty, creativity, expansiveness, compassion, discipline, dominion, sensitivity, positive intellect, spiritual power and more. On the other hand, there is love’s opposite: Fear. Fear induces the false notion of scarcity, and anxiety, toxic competition, hate, envy, jealousy, violence, bigotry, racism, sexism, inhibitions, and phobias of all sorts. As unique expressions of the Divine source, there ought to be no room for any of the elements associated with fear. Love is light. Fear is darkness. Love expands, fear contracts. Humanity will either expand into the promises of love and light or devolve into fear and darkness. When humans awaken into adulthood, into maturity, we recognize the fallacy of a human hierarchy that defines or limits our value based upon our race, gender, ethnicity, culture, and class. The biases that crippled our hearts and closed our minds are replaced with a recognition and acceptance of a shared humanity centered in Divine love. At this moment of human reckoning, and as our planet cleanses itself of the humans who never learned to appreciate her hospitality, it is imperative that we choose love and light. Our survival depends on this reawakening. It is now time to transcend to the next level of our development in this human incarnation. Forward motion is necessary, essential – buoyed by joy. Holding on to that joy in the face of this challenging moment in history is vital to the achievement of human solidarity. As a reminder the Holy Bible beautifully states: “For we walk by FAITH not by sight” (2 Corinthians 5:7). An embrace of love despite what we see, with its warmth and coziness can be a segue to our freedom. Constant and consistently advancing, evolving, deepening, and elevating, we embrace life as a journey to enjoy the fruits of the existing physical reality. Those of us who consciously live in a state of openness and awareness to the voicings of spirit and have lived through ‘tryin’ times’ are here to tell the stories. There is a psychological muscularity that we have gained because of the lessons we’ve learned. As instruments of Divine essence, many of us are closer to the ancestral realm than we are to our youth and have lessons to reveal to all who will listen. We are spirits in human form with a mission to share our gifts in service to the new emerging paradigm. The old one with historical and political toxins would suggest otherwise. To do this, we need to understand that the power and freedom we seek is within. Nothing and no one outside of ourselves can take this power without our permission. Nope. It is not about other people who seem to be in power via outward manifestations including money and pseudo power. Pseudo power is energy that is limited to what we see manifested including outward displays such as money, roles played, land, and material possessions. But where is the intrinsic value? The answer: There is none, which is why in an effort to fill the void, those with the resources must constantly replenish the supply. That hungry obsession will continue to prevail, unless and until there is an embrace of the true keys to living in abundance, prosperity, and the like. Altering our mindsets to embrace guidance from within and to live from the spirit of light and love is the answer that will fill the internal longing for more. It is an internal game not an external one. Fulfilling the intrinsic via purpose and meaning fuels our lives. And, that does not preclude having and owning possessions. It simply means we become balanced. We seek inner fulfillment which attracts the resources that showcase the Divinity that resides within us all. The spiritual guidance that will provide that balance relies on an open mind, a mind that comprehends a consciousness beyond what we see, hear, touch, and feel (with our physical bodies). Our ways of knowing ought to be connected to a higher understanding of this truth of our being. In this human incarnation, we are at a moment of convergence and can be the architects of a beautiful version of our experience as spirit beings. Nefarious forces seek to stymie or stagnate this moment or take us backwards. Spiritualist Michael Bernard Beckwith describes who we are in this human incarnation as “growth-centric beings.” As such, we must transcend the old paradigm that seeks to impede the progress that is about to be made. As former Vice President Kamala Harris said during her campaign for the highest office in the land, “We are not going back.” No matter how well-funded and ferocious the backlash, when we stand in solidarity with conscious sisters and brothers, we have the power to evolve into our next version. The light within coupled with that of others becomes a beacon to transform ourselves and our world. In our transparent world, we can find truths in many places. The trick is to know where to look. This takes a deep and abiding connection to spiritual discernment, or connections to those whose voices are tried and true with lessons learned and shared. In other words, you have to know both where to look and who to trust. The inner voice will guide us towards thriving beyond our toxic thinking. These lyrics from the song, “Wake Up Everybody” by Harold Melvin and the Bluenotes are apt: “Wake up everybody no more sleepin’ in bed. No more backward thinking, time for thinking ahead.” Ahhh, and that’s where we find the good news. There is tremendous joy in escaping the matrix of mental programming. Deconstructing the toxicity of this indoctrination is liberating beyond belief. The world of abundance opens within to greet the willing receiver. And, the accompanying relief, release, and abandonment of the biggest obstacle, fear, is lovingly replaced with love and its many iterations. It does require and open heart, and vulnerability is essential. Clearly, trust is integral to this unfolding. So, the action plan is to find trusted folks. As an elder, I would suggest that we take a page from other cultures, and from what we African Americans of a certain age remember, where ways of knowing are passed on from generation to generation. Elders, those who have done the consciousness-building self-work and are attuned to both the Spiritual Realm and the Ancestral Realm can be trusted to support engagement with the deeper recesses of our current reality. These trusted resources are all around waiting to exchange knowledge with other generations whose ways of knowing might be different, but valuable none-the-less. Despite what is happening at the highest levels of government in the United States and abroad, now is a time to be bold, receptive, and fearless! Parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, teachers and others who “know the way” are eager to provide guidance, counsel, and last but not least, love. It is still the answer!  “Keep your love light on.” Lui Satterfield (Earth, Wind, and Fire) Black cultural pride and nationalism during the ‘60’s and ‘70’s gave rise to artists who used their craft to affirm Black culture as a tool for Black ‘upliftment.' These “cultural workers” launched the Black Arts Movement – where social justice, history, the arts and education intersected. One such artist – activist, performing artist, educator, Dr. Marguerite Mariama, has never wavered in her commitment to the arts as a tool for social, cultural and historical consciousness and liberation. A trained professional in music, dance and theatre arts, this former college professor also has clinical experience as a dance/movement therapist. Her early civil rights activism began as a teen in Chicago and included protest marches and rallies, including one led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. Mariama was “raised up” as an artist by great teachers including Katherine Dunham (dance). “Sitting at Ms. Dunham’s feet and hearing her stories was awesome; she reminded us of our social responsibility as young artists, and we answered the call in our performances.” She is currently a member of the Chicago Bulls Basketball Team’s Swingin’ Seniors Dancers. As a national and international big band and small ensemble jazzy blues stylist, she has traveled the world as a resident music artist and performed with some to the “greatest musicians” on the planet. She has enjoyed acting roles in theatre, films, commercials and print – and is also a voice actor. As a professor in New York City’s CUNY System, she created the arts integration theory and methodology, Performance Pedagogy® for personal and collective development and transformation. An SIU CoLa Distinguished Alum, and former Illinois Humanities Council Road Scholar, Dr. Mariama produces, presents and performs worldwide. She holds a Ph.D. in Performance Education/specializing in African American Musical Culture. She is represented by Stewart Talent Group and the theatrical union, SAG/AFTRA. Her upcoming book, "Artivism: A Sixties Artist/Activist’s Memoir and Guide for Embracing Our Shared Humanity and Transforming Our World" will be released this summer. Please note: Each week, we invite members of the greater Global Citizens Circle community to contribute to GCC Voices. The views and opinions expressed in each blog post are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Global Citizens Circle. The antidote to darkness is light and love.  By Pamme Boutselis Like many of you, I’ve nearly gotten whiplash this past month in response to the onslaught of nefarious actions throughout the U.S. and all that's in tandem worldwide. Everyone around me – from family to colleagues to friends – seems to be battling such an array of emotions, from astonishment to fear to anger to despair, and just about everything in between and beyond. It's a balancing act between wanting to stay informed and becoming mired in the news. There’s been a reel featuring RuPaul making the rounds in social media, from some time ago, in which this sage advice is offered: “With all the darkness that’s going on in the world, you can look at the darkness. Don’t stare. It will make you crazy. It will make you cross-eyed. It’ll make you what it is. The solution is to create magic, dance, sing, love, create environments where you can find joy. Because you can create joy.” And I found solace in those words, although a piece of me felt (and feels) like it’s a betrayal to focus on finding joy when so many around me are in such pain. I know I’m not alone in feeling that way. I have so many blessings, so much in the way of joy ahead, particularly this year. I bet you do, too. So what I’m working toward is helping others find joy, big and small. Find comfort in these difficult times. Find solutions when solutions feel far away. Find ways to bring unheard voices to the forefront and find people willing to listen. These are things I can do – and so can you. I’ve been thinking a lot about who we can be for each other. This certainly isn’t a new concept – nor is the way I’m thinking lately all that new for me either. It just feels more urgent now. Our influence is greater than we might suspect – and our belief in each other, and ourselves, might be just the thing to turn this ship around. Let’s not allow these dark waters to engulf us. Find hope where you can – and nurture that hope. I found hope in an unlikely place over the weekend, at the cinema where I took in the “Becoming Led Zeppelin” movie. The band’s rise to fame took place during tumultuous times in the U.S. and the world. Newsreels and media clips surfaced throughout the narrative, reminding me of all that transpired in the 60s and 70s and how recent, really, so much of that was. And while history will show us the treacherous acts that have transpired since time began, it also brings us the stories of courage, of the activists who created forward movement, of the solidarity that brings about change. Throughout the past 50 years, Global Citizens Circle has been knee deep in societal, global issues, immersed in respectful dialogue focused on radical communication, conflict resolution and achieving peace. And it is here, with GCC, I also find great hope, along with continued learning and the belief that each of us has a voice in shaping a world that we all can thrive within. Join GCC on Wednesday, February 26 from noon to 1pm ET for “Uniting in the Face of Fear: Building Transformational Alliances,” featuring:  Learn more and register to attend here. Pamme Boutselis is an award-winning writer and content producer, currently serving as a senior director of content marketing and a communication adjunct at Southern New Hampshire University. She loves hearing and sharing stories. As a writer spanning a 25-plus-year career, her work has been featured in print and online via news media, career and education-focused blogs, regional magazines, technology publications and more. A serial volunteer, Boutselis has been a TEDx organizer since 2013 and a speaker coach. She’s been fortunate to work with dozens of nonprofits throughout the years and serves as a communication advisor for Global Citizens Circle. Connect with her on LinkedIn. Please note: Each week, we invite members of the greater Global Citizens Circle community to contribute to GCC Voices. The views and opinions expressed in each blog post are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Global Citizens Circle. Our influence is greater than we might suspect – and our belief in each other, and ourselves, might be just the thing to turn this ship around. Embarking on a Journey to Sierra Leone: A Quest for Peacebuilding and Reconciliation (Part 2)2/17/2025  Suraj Budathoki, Ahmad Bakdad, France Bognon, Interim CEO, International Civil Society Action Network; Jesica Rhone, Director of International Programs, McConnell Foundation By Suraj Budathoki Although I have never visited a war zone or country ravaged by conflict, the desire to visit these places, meet with people who have lived through unimaginable circumstances, and learn from their experiences has always been deep-rooted in me. My doctoral studies over time, now have revolved around theories aimed at mending the acrimony between warring parties. I have invested reasonable time reading, researching their implementation, and scrutinizing the ingrained challenges in such processes. Still, there is something incomparable about moving out of the academic world and into the real stories of those affected by conflict. I am grateful to Global Citizens Circle for allowing me to deepen my understanding through meaningful dialogue and engagement. This incredible organization has been a cornerstone of my development as a peacebuilder, continually encouraging me to link theory with practice. During one of these moments of connection, Theo Spanos Dunfey, the president and executive director of Global Citizens Circle, a remarkable mentor and friend, reached out to me with an opportunity that filled me with excitement. Theo’s email was concise but electrifying: there was a chance to attend the Constellation for Peace 2 (CP2) conference,organized by Catalyst for Peace and Fambul Tok, in Sierra Leone. As soon as I read the message, my curiosity led me to research the country, its civil war, and the groundbreaking reconciliation work that has occurred since. Sierra Leone endured a brutal civil war from 1991 to 2002 that left unforgettable marks. However, the nation has also been an extraordinary testament to the power of reconciliation, community healing, and grassroots peacebuilding. A Global Gathering of Peace Activists Being part of a global gathering of peace activists was exciting. Delegates from across the world—Northern Ireland, Nepal, Germany, Gambia, and beyond came together to share their experiences and learn from one another. It was not only an opportunity to observe peacebuilding in action but also to play a part in the collective effort to imagine a more harmonious world. I also shared my experiences with Peace Initiative Bhutan—a newly minted organization to foster peace and reconciliation with Bhutan through sincere dialogue. We do not believe in ushering in positive peace by defeating the other side, as we have spent more than three decades with that intention. Now, with the establishment of Peace Initiative Bhutan, we want to create a win-win solution where both parties emerge into dialogue in a mutually respectful environment for the betterment of the affected people. When I arrived in Sierra Leone, we boarded a bus to Freetow followed by a ferry to our final destination. Our journey across the water felt significant and transforming; I felt I was crossing a bridge of new understanding and solidarity, from conflict to cooperation, understanding war and division to unity. Accordingly, I, too, am transforming from an individual with my own concerns about Bhutan to a global citizen with an appreciation for and commitment to peacebuilding worldwide. Immersion and Learning in Villages Our schedule included traveling to villages badly affected by the civil war. I looked forward to this part of the trip the most—meeting people who had experienced the war firsthand and hearing their stories of loss, survival, and reconciliation. Each of the villages we visited symbolized a testament to human toughness and community’s transformative power. In one of the villages, I encountered a woman who had lost all her family members to the war. Despite her unthinkable pain, she had become a community leader and “Peace Mother,” championing dialogue and healing among former combatants and victims. Her story made me shed tears but also gave me a renewed sense of purpose in my own journey as a peacebuilder. Something she said will stay with me for eternity: “Forgiveness is not easy, but it is the only way forward.” Witnessing a traditional ceremony where community members publicly forgave one another and committed to rebuilding trust was yet another indelible experience. These ceremonies are rooted in Sierra Leone's culture and traditions; they also offer a powerful example of how local practices can be integral to peacebuilding. Insights and Takeaways I learned a lot from the conference and the village visits. Peacebuilding is not a one-stop endeavor; it requires humility, listening, and a willingness to adapt to the needs and contexts of the people involved. I heard stories about pain and also about the courage to heal and move forward. Those stories reminded me that reconciliation is not a destination but a journey—one that demands patience and steady commitment. Building a Global Network for Peace Aside from the lessons, the trip was an opportunity to build relationships with peacebuilders from around the world. During meals and conversations, we exchanged ideas, strategies, and dreams for a more peaceful future. These connections are a source of hope and remind us that we are not alone in this work. On my way back from Freetown at the end of the trip, I felt an immense sense of gratitude—for the chance to be part of something larger than myself, for the people who shared their stories, and for the global community of peacebuilders I am now privileged to call friends. This journey to Sierra Leone was both a professional milestone and a profoundly personal one, confirming my belief in the power of human connection and the possibility of a more peaceful world. I am returning home not just with stories and lessons but with a revitalized commitment to continue the work of peacebuilding and reconciliation. Although long, the road ahead promises hope, healing, and transformation. Part I of this blog may be found here. Suraj Budathoki is the co-founder and president of Peace Initiative Bhutan, which is committed to fostering positive change in Bhutan through reconciliation. His organization partners with Global Citizens Circle, collaborating to share resources and knowledge in peacebuilding through sincere dialogue. In addition to his peace work, Suraj is a doctoral student in Transformative Social Change at Saybrook University in California, and he was recently elected to serve in the NH State House of Representatives. Please note: Each week, we invite members of the greater Global Citizens Circle community to contribute to GCC Voices. The views and opinions expressed in each blog post are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Global Citizens Circle. Reconciliation is not a destination but a journey—one that demands patience and steady commitment.  By Suraj Budathoki I am making my first-ever trip to the African nation of Sierra Leone, a nation finally beginning to reconcile after decades of bloody civil war. As someone who survived forceful expulsion from his country at an early age, and where the division is chronic and shows no sign of improving, this journey is crucial. My journey into reconciliation within myself began not as a grand declaration, but as a deeply personal quest for healing—healing for myself, for my community, and ultimately, for my birth homeland of Bhutan. Because I have, early in my life, experienced displacement, a reasonable part of my life has been dedicated to the pursuit of a serene environment where peace, dignity, and understanding thrive. I couldn’t find a guideline for my healing journey until I crossed paths with the wisdom of the great peacemakers, Mahatma Gandhi, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. My physical journey from a Bhutanese refugee camp in Nepal where I spent almost 20 years to the United States was just part of the struggle; I knew that too well. The invisible wounds—those of trauma, loss, humiliation, and disconnection—could not be healed simply by crossing borders or leaving decades behind. Another type of journey was necessary, a journey that gravitated inward toward self-discovery and outward toward community and collective healing. I’ve learned that it is critically important to engage in a healing process prior to engaging in peacebuilding and reconciliation work, especially for a person that has been strongly impacted by historical trauma or other forms of personal pain. Unsettled trauma does not only cloud judgment but also sustains cycles of pain and hampers the ability to stimulate authentic reconciliation. As we’ve often heard, "Hurt people hurt people." In other words, individuals whose wounds are not yet healed may, often unknowingly, transfer their aggression to others, aggravating dispute instead of finding a solution to them. For that reason, healing is not just a personal necessity but a necessary condition for contributing to the greater collective settlement process. To honestly offer the empathy, patience, and understanding required to close gaps and promote a more peaceful future, individuals must first tend their own wounds. Reading the works of Gandhi, Tutu, and MLK, Jr., I realized how crucial it is to respect and honor those on the other side of the conflict, not as foes, but as equal contenders in a shared game. Each of these peacemakers confronted strongly ingrained injustices but believed in the transformative power of nonviolence, forgiveness, and reconciliation. The ahimsa principle of Mahatma Gandhi—the nonviolence practice—profoundly resonated with me. Gandhi taught that true peace emanates from understanding one’s opponents. Through his belief in satyagraha, or the force of truth, I realized that reconciliation starts from accepting the humanity and dignity of the other side, even when their actions have caused harm. From the Bhutanese point of view, it implies understanding the historical and political intricacies without giving in to bitterness or displeasure. My understanding of collective healing is strongly impacted by Archbishop Desmond Tutu’s role in South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission. “No future without forgiveness,” as he believed, particularly stands out to me. According to Tutu, forgiveness is not just for the one who has been wronged, it is also for the wrongdoer as well. He also argued that it is a requisite step toward freeing both parties from the cycle of pain and violence. The caveat we need to understand, however, is that righteous closer of the conflict is necessary for forgiving wrongdoers. I have given this idea the utmost attention in my work with Peace Initiative Bhutan. I have realized that true reconciliation is about transforming our thoughts about the past, not about wiping them away. The primary aim is to openly confront the injustices we endured and not to forget them and to seek a path that heals rather than encourages division. Dr. King’s vision of a “Beloved Community” sustained my hope for what is possible, even when confronted with deep-rooted conflict. From Dr. King, I learned that justice and peace are attainable realities and not unachievable dreams, as long as we are committed to nonviolent struggle and hold firmly to the belief in human dignity. The idea that peacebuilding must be grounded in empathy, compassion, and a refusal to treat the other side as if they are lesser humans was strengthened by his philosophy of love as a driving force in social change. Today, as I go on with my work in peacebuilding, both in Bhutan and with Bhutanese communities around the world, I am accompanied by the lessons of these exceptional leaders. I am reminded by their teachings that peace is not just an absence of war or violence, but a state of mind, a way of living, and a commitment to healing the wounds of the past. The path to sustainable peace in Bhutan demands that we all come together as equal players, believing in each other’s humanity, while committing to the tough but crucial work of restoring trust. This journey is about learning to see further than the pain of the past and toward the potential for a future that inculcates all of us. And just as Gandhi, Tutu, and MLK Jr. have taught us, this journey needs immense courage, patience, and, above all, love. As I strive to bring healing and reconciliation to my people, the wisdom of these extraordinary leaders keeps me grounded and focused. Their words serve as a constant reminder that peace is not just an aspiration but a tangible possibility—one that requires us to see each other not as adversaries, but as partners in a shared journey. Each of us has a role in building a world that is more just, compassionate, and peaceful. Stay tuned for Part 2. Suraj Budathoki is the co-founder and president of Peace Initiative Bhutan, which is committed to fostering positive change in Bhutan through reconciliation. His organization partners with Global Citizens Circle, collaborating to share resources and knowledge in peacebuilding through sincere dialogue. In addition to his peace work, Suraj is a doctoral student in Transformative Social Change at Saybrook University in California, and he was recently elected to serve in the NH State House of Representatives. Please note: Each week, we invite members of the greater Global Citizens Circle community to contribute to GCC Voices. The views and opinions expressed in each blog post are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Global Citizens Circle. Because I have, early in my life, experienced displacement, a reasonable part of my life has been dedicated to the pursuit of a serene environment where peace, dignity, and understanding thrive. Regardless of where we are in the world, we’re witnessing division—pulling so many of us farther apart in opposite directions. For those of us who continue to hope, and to believe in the power of respectful dialogue, Global Citizens Circle (GCC) offers pathways so that we may share this hope and belief with others. Then, they too can create ways forward to positive engagement in their communities. One critical tool is GCC’s Dialogue2Action series, based on our Circle events, with the goal of furthering the conversation throughout our global communities, so we may begin to see the possibilities available to us all.  An especially pertinent topic may well be “Healing Divisions: Embracing Our Common Humanity,” featuring moderator Judith Thompson, Ph.D., co-founder of Children of War, Inc., with discussion leaders Rosalie Gerut,the daughter of Holocaust survivors and co-founder of One by One; Tony McAleer, former leader of a Neo-Nazi skinhead organization and co-founder of Life After Hate; and Belvie Rooks, co-founder of Growing a Global Heart. The ”Healing Divisions” Discussion Guide features discussion prompts to consider as you go through the discussion program, which includes a thorough introduction, before delving into sections on toxic shame, the power of radical compassion, accountability and reconciliation – as well as the video below. This comprehensive discussion guide was developed by Dr. Christina Cliff, associate professor of political science and security studies at Franklin Pierce University. Access the guide here and the related video here. Receiving compassion from someone we don’t deserve it from is incredibly powerful information. |
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