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 By José Tulio Gálvez Contreras In a world marked by uncertainty and division, effective leadership is crucial. The Global Citizen Circle (GCC) shines as a beacon of hope, uniting leaders to inspire tomorrow’s change-makers. My journey with GCC began during the pandemic, a challenging time when many felt lost. As a Latino immigrant from Honduras, GCC became a vital source of inspiration and connection. I arrived in the United States in 2007 on a scholarship, driven by the dream of one day giving back to and transforming my home country. In those early years, my aspirations burned brightly. I envisioned creating positive change and uplifting my community. However, as time went on, that fire began to fade. The weight of isolation and uncertainty took its toll. While my dreams remained alive, they lacked the passion I once felt. It was during the pandemic, grappling with these feelings of disconnection, that I discovered GCC. GCC emerged as a platform where diverse voices could unite, fostering dialogue, collaboration, and inspiration—essential elements for effective leadership. The organization created circles of conversation, allowing individuals from various backgrounds to share their experiences and aspirations. This sense of community was crucial during such chaotic times, especially as we confronted not only the pandemic but also the urgent call to support the Black Lives Matter movement and stand against oppression. One of the key lessons from my involvement with GCC is the realization that I am not alone in my struggles. Many others share the desire to enact change in their communities. This understanding reignited my sense of purpose and revealed that our diverse backgrounds enhance the dialogue about our collective future. The stories and insights shared within GCC circles underscored the strength found in unity and the power of collective action. What sets GCC apart is its commitment to empowering individuals as agents of change. By bringing together leaders from different fields, GCC encourages discussions on pressing issues such as social justice and environmental sustainability. These conversations serve as catalysts for action, prompting participants to reflect on their roles in their communities and the wider world. Through GCC, I learned that effective leadership isn’t merely about wielding power; it’s about listening, understanding, and collaborating toward shared goals. Engaging with fellow members provided invaluable support, motivating me to take an active role in my community. Together, we brainstorm ideas and hold each other accountable for change, reinforcing that real transformation often begins at the grassroots level. In conclusion, the Global Citizen Circle illustrates the transformative power of community and dialogue in fostering leadership. During a fragmented time, GCC offered hope and connection, profoundly shaping my journey as a Latino immigrant. It reignited my passion for change and strengthened my commitment to helping Honduras. As we move forward, we must recognize our potential to contribute to a more equitable world. Through organizations like GCC, we can cultivate future leaders, united by a shared vision for positive change. José Tulio Gálvez Contreras is the Director of Affordable Solar at Solar One, a position he has held since 2019. He manages solar projects and leads research initiatives to enhance solar access for multifamily affordable housing. With over a decade of experience in renewable energy, sustainability, and community development, José is committed to addressing social and environmental injustices. He is currently completing his doctoral studies in Public and Urban Policy at The New School, focusing on environmental justice and energy democracy. José holds master's degrees in Public and Urban Policy and Environmental Law and Policy. In his free time, he enjoys nature, meditation, martial arts, dancing, exploring new cuisines, and meeting new people. 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. What sets GCC apart is its commitment to empowering individuals as agents of change. By bringing together leaders from different fields, GCC encourages discussions on pressing issues such as social justice and environmental sustainability. These conversations serve as catalysts for action, prompting participants to reflect on their roles in their communities and the wider world.
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 By Dr. Shanita M. Williams Growing up, just about every child had “circle time” during the school day. It was a point in the day where we’d move from our individual plainly colored desks to the center of the room, often sitting on a vibrantly colored rug that gave you a jolt of energy the moment you stepped onto it. We’d all scramble to that carpet for circle time, trying to find the perfect spot within the circle. I remember looking around to make sure no one was left outside of the circle and would encourage other kids to scoot over to make room if someone did. As I reflect on the many faces in the circle, I cannot help to feel blessed to have grown up with people from all walks of life in race, gender, socio-economic status and ability. I didn’t realize it at the time, but circle time would become one of my earliest memories on the value of diversity and the importance of inclusion. As a kid, the time in the circle was incredibly exciting…it was a moment of the day where we were closest to the teacher (literally sitting just a few inches away from their feet). It was an opportunity to put our pens down (or crayons for that matter) and engage in learning in a completely different way. No books, no overhead projector (I am dating myself), no worksheets, no flashcards, just me, myself and I. It was a signal that I was enough and that I had everything I needed for the circle. Looking back, it was really empowering. Circle time was also inspiring because it was not only an opportunity to listen to each other, but it was also an opportunity to see each other in a completely different way. The structure of the circle made the time special. We were right beside one another – not across the table from one another – and something about that felt good. We weren’t required to cite literature or recite the details of something; it was our opportunity to listen to each other, to see one another, share our perspective, and be inspired by one another. It was almost as if the words shared during “circle time” resonated more deeply than any other point in the day, leaving me feeling more knowledgeable, more connected to my peers, and seen as an individual. Now that you know how much I valued circle time as a kid, I am sure it’s no surprise to you that I was drawn to Global Citizens Circle (GCC). Through the use of global circles, Global Citizens Circle discussion leaders join in a moderated interactive conversation with participants from around the world, having courageous constructive conversations about some of the world’s most pressing topics. The experience and outcomes are similar to those I felt in a circle as a kid: people from all walks of life sharing stories, inspiring hope, deepening understanding, and motivating change.  In June 2022, I had the honor of moderating a GCC circle, “In the Footsteps of Giants: Grounding and Growing the Dream.” It was an inspiring discussion centered around intergenerational dialogue with Yolanda King, then 14-year-old activist and sole grandchild of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Coretta Scott King as well as Khandace Wilkerson, a 2022 graduate of the Boston Latin Academy, who is involved in many community-based organizations in Boston. Together, they represent a generation of new voices that were born out of dreams of those who have come before them. It was a real treat for me to sit alongside the two of these young women and hear their thoughts on topics that the youth were most concerned about. We talked about voting rights, gun violence, activism, and tips for youth who want to make a difference. One of our discussion topics was around voting. As we enter the 2024 presidential election the youth vote (ages 18-34) has the potential to influence on the outcome in many states. As Yolanda King noted, “We need to make sure we (youth) are voting so that we elect politicians who will listen to the youth.” Her point was well taken. Many people have traditionally felt that our youth are “to be seen and not heard.” Khandace Wilkerson said, “They (youth) have power in their voice even, if they don’t use it; their thoughts matter, their ideas matter and they can change the world if they want to.” I have always believed in our youth, but after listening to these young women, it reinforced that if we only see them and not hear them, we are missing out on an incredible opportunity to positively shape the future of our country and, inevitably, the world. I remember hearing that one voice can cause an avalanche. These two young women, alongside the Global Citizens Circle, have started a volcanic eruption. What an honor it was to be a part of this circle and watch them pave their own way as they follow in the footsteps of giants. As I go back to my childhood circle time on the vibrantly colored carpet, I am reminded that it was not the adults in the room that inspired me most, it was my peers…the youth that did so. I am inspired by our youth: Khandance Wilkerson and Yolanda King will lead the next generation of leaders and become the giants so many will follow. That’s the power of a circle. Dr. Shanita Williams has focused on the employee experience for the last 15 years. She currently serves as the vice president of people experience and inclusion within Human Resources at Southern New Hampshire University. In her role, she collaborates with leaders and employees across the university to ensure that diversity and inclusion are embedded in all of our talent strategies, initiatives and programs that help recruit, retain and empower world class talent to deliver on the mission. Her areas of focus include employee engagement surveys, recognition and appreciation, employee networks, university-wide onboarding, bias response programs, coaching and helping people build a feedback mentality. Williams earned her Doctorate in Educational Leadership, where her research centered on the lived experiences of African-American working mothers as students. Williams is the author of "The Feedback Mentality: The key to unlocking and unleashing your full potential" and a two-times TEDx speaker. Through the use of global circles, Global Citizens Circle discussion leaders join in a moderated interactive conversation with participants from around the world, having courageous constructive conversations about some of the world’s most pressing topics. - Dr. Shanita Williams 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.
Tito Jackson, the chairman emeritus of Global Citizens Circle's Board, speaks to what GCC has meant to him over the years, why it remains vital in his life, and how we all benefit from GCC and its mission.  Alice Burume is an academic coach and coach trainer, with a passion for education to empower refugee and underrepresented individuals and promote lifelong learning. She believes in giving back to the community and is actively involved in Global Citizen Circle. She holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA), with experience in higher education and working with diverse communities. Outside of work, she enjoys singing for pleasure, exercising at the gym, and exploring new cuisines through cooking and dining out. Can you tell us a bit about your journey to get to where you are now in your life? My journey to where I am now has been a diverse and enriching experience. It has been shaped by various factors such as education, professional experiences, personal growth, and overcoming challenges. From a young age, I was always curious and eager to learn. This curiosity led me to pursue higher education, where I did a Bachelor of Arts in Communication with a concentration in Business and a Master of Business Administration (MBA). During this time, I developed a strong foundation of knowledge and skills that laid the groundwork for my future endeavors. As I entered the professional world, I looked for opportunities that aligned with my interests and aspirations. I have had the privilege of working in different industries and roles, each offering unique challenges and learning experiences. These experiences have helped me develop valuable skills such as organizational, analytical, and interpersonal, problem solving, stress management, and communication skills, both written and verbal, through interacting with diverse teams and stakeholders. Along the way, I have encountered obstacles and setbacks, but I have always approached them as opportunities for growth. Whether it was navigating career transitions, overcoming personal challenges, or adapting to new environments, I have remained resilient and focused on achieving my goals. Moreover, my journey has been enriched by the people I have met along the way, mentors who have offered guidance, colleagues who have inspired me, and friends and family who have supported me through it all. Overall, my journey has been characterized by continuous learning, growth, and a commitment to pursuing my passions. I am excited about where I am now and look forward to the opportunities that lie ahead. Who do you follow for inspiration, leadership, or encouragement? I have always found inspiration in historical figures. One person in particular who has always inspired me is Martin Luther King Jr. His remarkable ability to speak with eloquence, passion, and commitment to nonviolent protest have left an impact. His willingness and bravery to stand up to a system that was unfair to him and many others continues to be an inspiration to me. I want to speak to and inspire others just like he did as well as be able to face my own fears with courage and determination. What's your connection to Global Citizens Circle? I am a graduate of the Southern New Hampshire University's Global Education Movement (SNHU's GEM) program in Rwanda. In 2021, while working as an administrative assistant intern in Southern New Hampshire University's Office of Diversity and Inclusion, I joined Global Citizen Circle. During that time, I also served as a Global Citizen Circle intern and was part of the Emerging Leaders group. Currently, I am a member of the GCC Program and Partnerships Committee. What advice do you have for young people throughout the world who have a desire to create positive change? My advice to young people who have a desire to create positive change is to start small, but think big.
Always remember even the smallest actions can contribute to significant change, so never underestimate the power of your voice and actions. Along the way, I have encountered obstacles and setbacks, but I have always approached them as opportunities for growth. - Alice Burume  Ahmad Bakdad is a legal professional from Syria who advocates for the rights of young individuals and children, actively supporting initiatives for social justice, human rights, and the advancement of peace and equality. Over the last seven years, he has dedicated himself to collaborating with diverse civil society organizations, NGOs, INGOs, and UN agencies, including SOS Children's Villages, UNICEF, the Syrian Bar Association, and the United Nations Development Programme. His contributions have impacted humanitarian endeavors across Syria and the Middle East. Ahmad also holds active memberships in several international associations focused on youth, community development, and peacebuilding. During his fellowship, Ahmad will join an international organization in Europe, where he will contribute to their global work on conflict resolution and peacebuilding. His time at the organization will be dedicated to strengthening his skills and enhancing his knowledge in the areas of peacebuilding and conflict resolution. He aims to expand his network by engaging with international colleagues and learning from their experiences. Ahmad plans to leverage this experience and newfound knowledge to empower communities in Syria and internationally. He intends to transfer his expertise and use it to drive social change and social cohesion initiatives for peace and social integration. GCC recently had an opportunity to connect with Ahmad and learn more about his work, his goals, and how others can create positive change in the world. You started your career in the legal field. What created the shift from lawyer to activist? The shift from a legal career to activism in human and child rights stemmed from firsthand experiences within the legal field. Working closely with vulnerable populations promoted my desire for broader societal change, I transitioned from legal work to advocacy to address root causes and promote holistic solutions. Additionally, interactions with clients underscored the power of collective action, inspiring a belief in grassroots movements' transformative potential. This journey reflects a commitment to justice and the interplay between legal expertise and social activism. By leveraging legal knowledge, I aim to contribute to a more equitable world where the rights of all individuals, especially marginalized communities, are upheld. Tell us about the work you engage in now and why it matters so much to you. Currently, my work encompasses global voluntary engagements and memberships in impactful organizations that advocate for global development, peace building, and justice, such as Global Citizen Circle (GCC), Social Change Initiative (SCI) Global Rights Defenders (GRD), International Peace Bureau (IPB), MCW Young Leaders, and SOS Children's villages. These interactions facilitate collaboration with international entities, fostering a deeper understanding of global issues and enabling collective efforts towards positive change. For example, my engagement with GCC, has been particularly impactful. It allows me to contribute to meaningful discussions on human rights, social justice, and peace on a global scale. These involvements matter deeply to me as it offers a platform to amplify voices from diverse backgrounds, advocate for marginalized communities, and drive tangible progress towards a more inclusive and sustainable world. What can we, the general public, do to support this work? There are several ways the general public can support my work in advocating for human and child rights:
You were part of GCC's Youth Resilience Circle. How did this come about? My involvement with the Global Citizen Circle's Youth Resilience Circle was a transformative experience that unfolded organically. It marked my inaugural engagement with GCC, providing a profound introduction to a global community of young leaders dedicated to peace and freedom. Witnessing the passion and commitment of fellow youth activists from diverse backgrounds resonated deeply with me, reaffirming the universality of our shared struggles and aspirations. This initial interaction served as a catalyst, igniting a desire to play a more significant role within GCC's community. Motivated by the collective energy and resolve of my peers, I became actively involved, eager to both learn from and contribute to our collective efforts in promoting dialogue, understanding, and positive change on a global scale. Can you tell us about your Social Change Initiative (SCI) Fellowship and what you hope to achieve? Thanks to my involvement with the Global Citizen Circle (GCC), I was nominated for the Social Change Initiative (SCI) Fellowship. SCI's remarkable work in supporting youth leaders worldwide has been instrumental in fostering positive change across communities. The seamless integration between GCC and SCI has profoundly impacted both my personal and professional development, providing invaluable opportunities for learning and growth. As an active member of SCI, I am honored to be part of a network dedicated to advancing social justice and human rights. With the SCI Fellowship, I aspire to pursue international experiences that will enable me to gather global insights and best practices in my field. This fellowship generously supports my endeavor to engage with diverse perspectives and approaches, ultimately empowering me to contribute more effectively to the advancement of human and child rights on a global scale. Do you have a mentor or leader you look to for inspiration? I find inspiration and mentorship from various sources, particularly my colleagues in the field of peace building, human and child rights, whose dedication and passion continually motivate me to strive for positive change. Moreover, being part of global organizations like the Global Citizen Circle (GCC), Social Change Initiative (SCI), and Global Rights Defenders (GRD) exposes me to inspiring leaders and mentors whose tireless efforts inspire me to expand my horizons and deepen my commitment to advocacy. Each interaction and collaboration within these networks offer valuable insights and encouragement, fueling my drive to make a meaningful impact in the pursuit of justice and equality. You'll be joining GCC in Sierra Leone in October at a peace conference. What will your role be? While the exact details of my involvement are still unfolding, I am dedicated to contributing my skills, experiences, and perspectives towards fostering dialogue, understanding, and reconciliation at the conference. Together with GCC colleagues, I am eager to collaborate, innovate, and drive positive change that resonates both locally and globally to build a more peaceful and inclusive world. What advice do you have for young people throughout the world who have a desire to create positive change? For young people worldwide aspiring to create positive change, I advise starting by educating oneself about pressing social issues and understanding their root causes to develop informed opinions and strategies for change.
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