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 By George Kinder We have it in our power to begin the world over again. — Thomas Paine I have been concerned for some time about the state of humanity. The feeling has increased over the last 10 years. I am concerned about the things that I care about most, like how we treat each other, the vast inequalities amongst human beings, the state of Mother Earth, democracy, and perhaps most important of all I am concerned about misrepresentations of the truth by those in power, those whom we should most trust in the community we call civilization. Coming out of the banking crisis of 2008, I suspected that although humanity seemed to be polarized, perhaps, in truth, everyone was concerned about the same things. And that we mostly wanted the same solutions. This idea launched my book, “A Golden Civilization & The Map of Mindfulness,” and a book tour to far corners of the globe. As I traveled, I was searching for how to create a vision strong enough that the whole world would act on it. To test my intuition, wherever I went I invited audiences through a structured exercise, to design their own vision of a Golden Civilization. Sure enough, whether I went to a rich country or to a poor country, and whether I went to a democratic country or a dictatorship or somewhere in between, everywhere people wanted similar things. Everybody wanted less inequality. They wanted adequate healthcare, food, and shelter. They wanted an end to corruption. They wanted an end to racism and to bigotry. They wanted kindness and good humor. They wanted a richness of culture. They wanted to be able to trust their scientists. They wanted trustworthiness everywhere. They wanted all media to tell the truth and to be trustworthy. This discovery was quite wonderful. I captured the vision words, weighted by frequency of use, from the first 20 conversations into a word-cloud shaped like the Earth.  Golden Civilization Conversations Word Cloud: Vision words weighted by the frequency that they came up n conversation during the first 20 Golden Civilization Conversations led by George Kinder around the globe. How self-centered we have been playing one country versus another, one team versus another, one person versus another. For generations, we’ve lived with the notion that evolution is about competition, but it’s much more clearly about Gaia and the creation of expanding environments of freedom. As the world becomes smaller and more accessible to us, it becomes our responsibility to create environments where all creatures thrive. We are being called as a species to deliver a structure of kindness, freedom, innovation, compassion, resilience, and sustainability for the whole Earth, for our descendants, and for all generations to come.
Two hundred and fifty years ago, at the beginning of the Industrial Revolution, there was an explosion of innovation, of creativity, and of the production of material things that would lead humanity to create the world we are now in, enabling many of us to live longer, healthier, and richer lives and be connected to each other all over the world. Clearly, the combination of capitalism, democracy, and the rule of law produced something remarkable, bringing to much of humanity greater longevity, greater leisure, and greater freedoms. But if our system was really the best that there could be, why is it that at the top of every hierarchy of power after these 250 years of innovation, we don’t find the very best of humanity, our wisdom and our compassion? Wouldn’t the best system automatically deliver the very best of humanity into every aspect of our lives? Something at the very base of the system is awry in the design of every organizational structure, something that keeps each institution from acting automatically with wisdom and kindness, so much so that no institution anywhere models it. We are back to the model of competition, where self-interest comes first. Our institutional structures are designed for self-interest to flourish. Rather than virtuous action, it’s self-interest that’s baked in. Think about it. When we give the right to incorporate or the right to govern to a person or an organization, we give the potential for enormous power. And they can leverage that power through hierarchy, minimize the threat of lawsuits with limited liability protection, and get special tax rates. They can further leverage their power to astronomical levels with capital and debt and through their ability to communicate. With all this power at their fingertips, is it any wonder that the production and delivery of humanity’s innovations, although they touch every aspect of our lives, is more tainted by the self-interest of hierarchies than touched by human virtue? For all the power we have granted their self-interest, why don’t we require something of them in return? What if we simply required each of them as a consequence of incorporation, whether they are corporations, nonprofits, or governments, to act in a humane way? Simply require them to be humane. But rather than require something of them, we keep giving more to them. After thousands of years of developing what it is to have secured rights as human beings in relation to the powerful institutions that govern our lives, we’ve granted a lot of those rights back to institutions as if they were human. We have granted them the power to dominate how we think through their ownership or influence of media, including through non-profits and their own advertising. And we’ve granted them the enormous power to influence elections in ways that takes away our democratic freedom. Only now do we realize that in using those rights, some of the most powerful have come to threaten our deepest values, our lives, our democracies, the lives of Earth’s creatures, and the stability of the planet we live on. We feel diminished, as if civilization is not ours but our institutions’. But civilization is ours. It is meant to be a domain of freedom, not for them but for us. It’s time we asked new and existing institutions (corporate, non-profit, governmental) to place humanity first, to place the truth first, to place democracy first, and to place the Earth first ahead of their own self-interest, as a requirement of their existence. This is the essence of the FIAT movement. Here is the simple, one-sentence legislative proposal that requires just that. “A Fiduciary standard of obligation is required for all institutions (corporate, non-profit, and governmental) to place the interests of all stakeholders, of truth, of humanity, democracy, and the living planet that sustains us, first above their own self-interest.” We fought a revolution in America for democracy, to establish human rights, and to free ourselves of the hierarchy of mad King George. But now, as a consequence of our system, we have created many hierarchies as powerful and more. It is time for us as a species to free the world as well as ourselves of the hierarchies that have power over us and that can diminish our freedom and guarantee instead that each of them always works in the best interests of humanity. This simple piece of legislation will make sure this happens. The idea and the language are simple enough to spread across the globe. Through speaking engagements, I’ve shared these ideas, reaching many parts of the world. It’s easy to think of obstacles to the accomplishing of such a human right, but at this stage, it’s the vision that’s most important to establish. A strong enough vision will conquer all obstacles, particularly when it’s the movement of a people, a species, inspired by the same torch. With the richest and most powerful billionaires, companies, and media moguls likely to oppose placing the interests of truth, democracy, Mother Earth, and humanity above their own self-interest, it is imperative we create a huge grass-roots movement toward Fiduciary In All Things becoming the law of the land. Many who first hear the idea don’t understand what the word “fiduciary” means, and to some it can seem controversial. I chose the term “fiduciary” because of its linguistic roots and its legislative usage. Fiduciary is an obligation for trustworthy service to others. At present all corporations have a single fiduciary responsibility. It is to their shareholders. All the power of their hierarchy and leverage is required to maximize profit for their shareholders alone. That is the nub of our problem. For a civilization to be a domain of freedom for all, hierarchies of power must have a fiduciary responsibility to all of us, and to truth and to Gaia and democracy, as well. I’ve been sharing simple statements to help bridge the gap between the term fiduciary and its meaning.
Even more accessible than words for a movement to go viral are images. In the United States, consumers can find a Certified Organic symbol on any organically processed food that is certified by the USDA. This simple symbol indicates to a consumer that the product has fulfilled conditions on how they are produced, processed, transported, and stored. For the Fiduciary In All Things movement, I’ve created easily recognizable symbols that can go on an organization’s website to symbolize that they care about the humane treatment of their employees, of democracy, and of the living planet that sustains them.  Fiduciary In All Things Legislative Proposal: A one-sentence legislative proposal crafted by George Kinder that advocates for all institutions to place the interests of all stakeholders above their own self-interest.  Fiduciary In All Things Globe Logo: A logo that can help spread awareness of the FIAT movement by adding it to your social media posts, websites, headers, and email signatures.  Fiduciary In All Things Square Logo: A logo that can help spread awareness of the FIAT movement by adding it to your social media posts, websites, headers, and email signatures. You can popularize these symbols by sharing them on social media and placing them on your website and in your communications to demonstrate your support of the vision of a fiduciary world. We have a strong vision. Let’s spread it widely. I’m optimistic that we can do this, despite those of enormous wealth and power that would prefer institutions to work solely for them. Already there are significant existing structures that can support the implementation of legislation. They come from the ESG movement, Business Roundtable, B Corps, and many organizations and corporations looking to put humanity’s interests ahead of their own self-interest. Extraordinarily helpful as each of these may be, at this point, establishing the vision is even more important than solving obstacles. It’s time to make Fiduciary In All Things the law of the land, by making its vision ubiquitous and for all people. Imagine all people of the Earth empowered, supported, and inspired, not diminished by the systems that surround them. Just a single sentence legislative proposal can start this and can change the world. Let’s establish the vision. We need all hands on deck. Please join us. Share what #FiduciaryInAllThings means to you. Place the symbols on your social media headers and banners, and on your website. Let’s make it happen. Consider these questions:
International thought leader and author George Kinder has been at the forefront of the financial services industry for decades, spearheading the financial life planning movement that identifies clients’ dreams of freedom and then delivers them with entrepreneurial energy. Through books, workshops, and speaking engagements, George has trained thousands of professionals globally in financial life planning. After 30 years as a financial planner and tax adviser, he founded the Kinder Institute of Life Planning in 2003. In "The Three Domains of Freedom," his latest of 12 books, George advocates a universal fiduciary standard across all institutions. In 2025, he was awarded the Innovator Founder visa by the UK Home Office to bring FIAT directly into businesses globally through transformative workshops and talks. Please note: 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. “A Fiduciary standard of obligation is required for all institutions (corporate, non-profit, and governmental) to place the interests of all stakeholders, of truth, of humanity, democracy, and the living planet that sustains us, first above their own self-interest.” - George Kinder
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 By Eryn Gordon When someone gets the opportunity to travel, they’re agreeing to a life-changing experience, where cultural immersion, language barriers, and the ability to meet diverse people create an opportunity for a broader perspective. Travel changes us, and most would agree that change is for the better, but are the places we visit experiencing positive change as well? In some cases, the answer is no. A few of the world’s most beloved destinations are suffering from their own popularity, in what is called overtourism, the phenomenon of when too many visitors congregate into a specific destination. Overtourism results in uncomfortable crowding, but can also lead to environmental problems, housing inequality, price surges, and loss of cultural identity. One such example is Venice, Italy. As travelers exploring Venice, we get a pretty clear idea of what overtourism looks like on a typical day. Mid-morning at Saint Mark’s Square. Add in some warm weather and blue skies, and you have a recipe for shoulder-to-shoulder crowds that takes ages to maneuver through. Naturally, this is a nuisance for visitors, as we might be hustling through the crowd to keep in line with a tour guide on foot, or might be running to a lunch reservation. We might get exhausted from having to rub elbows and backs with strangers and ultimately end the day by collapsing with relief into our fluffy Airbnb beds. The experience of a local is another story. The city receives over 30 million annual visitors, contrasting the mere 50,000 residents. 6 out of 10 homes are designated as “tourist only rentals,” leaving about 40% of places to live available to locals. For some who have lived their entire lives in Venice, the city is rapidly changing. Beloved shops replaced by globally recognizable chains; shops selling mass-produced souvenirs take over the boutiques. If the number of people living in Venice continues to decline, it’s estimated that there will no longer be any true local residents of the city come 2030. However, when you ask a local Venetian what the true root of the problem is, they often do not say its overtourism, but the lack of local regulations and available education. There is truly no other place like Venice. Paul Rosenberg, a resident of Venice and owner of Campaign for a Living Venice, once told me that when he walks down the street, he sees at least one person experiencing their dream in real life. Venetians know the magic of their city and are happy to share it with others. But it needs to be done so responsibly, otherwise Venice as we know it may cease to exist. This all ties back to the right to travel, and perhaps even the need to travel, but also, the right locals have to their city. When I began the research for my TEDx talk, What it means to be a good traveler, it was important to hear from travel professionals, but it was essential to learn from the locals who actually have to deal with the negative impacts of tourism every day, night, and even during the slow season. I began seeking out locals, not only from Venice, but in Barcelona, Paris, Bangkok, Lake Tahoe, and a few other notable world destinations suffering from their own success. So many of the people I spoke to share a similar sentiment. They didn’t blame tourists for wanting to come to their city or country but wanted better systems to ensure that the place remained habitable. As I mentioned with Venice, it comes down to a lack of education and regulations. The regulations are, unfortunately, out of our hands for the most part. The average traveler (me included) likely cannot lobby with a law maker for better tourism guardrails on the opposite hemisphere. But here is the thing we can do—we can learn about how that specific destination is being impacted by tourism and do our best to mitigate our contribution. Because overtourism affects different places in different ways, the answer to this question will vary, but a quick internet search should help give you an idea of how that destination is experiencing tourism. For example, the overwhelming majority of the coastline in The Bahamas has been bought up by resorts, which means that a small percentage of beach access is actually available to people who live there. As it happens, many of these resorts are all-inclusive, which means that the majority of visitors do not carry cash. Instead, you could carry a waterproof bag with small bills and be sure you tip every person waiting on you. If you feel comfortable doing so, you may skip the resort altogether and try a locally-owned bed and breakfast, further ensuring your tourist dollars help the local economy. Lastly, many of the locals felt that in the fight for ethical and regulated tourism, they were engaged in a losing battle. There is big money in the tourism industry and from the perspective of lawmakers, it doesn’t make economic sense to stifle tourism. In a lot of ways, we as travelers have quite a lot of power when we visit a destination—some would say it’s an imbalance of power. I think we have a great opportunity to change the course of tourism, and it starts with the choices we make abroad. Our power as travelers is to leave the places we visit a little better than how we found them. Whether that means uplifting residents, flushing the local economy with tourist dollars, supporting small businesses, or a combination of all three. Overtourism may be hurting some places, but we have the power and the responsibility to shift this. Eryn Gordon is a published travel writer and the founder of Earth To Editorial, a community for authentic and sustainable travel. She's also a journalist and TEDx speaker. Every month, she helps 10,000 travelers unlock a sense of adventure, learn how to explore ethically, and become stewards of their favorite destinations. Please note: 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 power as travelers is to leave the places we visit a little better than how we found them." - Eryn Gordon  Photo by Gary Butterfield on Unsplash By Mariam P. Sometimes, late at night when I’m studying or the internet is slow, I catch myself wondering about big things , like why people believe what they do, or how the world could be different. In those quiet moments, I realize curiosity isn’t just something nice to have. It’s actually a strong way to deal with a world full of arguments and divisions. We live in times where information comes at us constantly : news alerts, social media threads, heated family dinners. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and retreat into certainty. We scroll past opinions that don’t match ours, mute notifications from “that one friend,” or just nod along in conversations to avoid conflict. But I’ve noticed something: the moments when I push past that instinct and get genuinely curious are the ones that stick with me. They don’t always change minds (mine or anyone else’s), but they change the energy. They make space for something human instead of just positions. Right now, a lot of people pick a side fast and stick to it. They stop listening. But asking questions changes that. A simple “Why do you think that?” or “What made you feel this way?” can open the door to real talk instead of shouting matches. Those basic questions are powerful because they shift the focus from winning to understanding. When we ask them sincerely, we’re saying, “I see you as more than your opinion.” We’re inviting the other person to share the story behind their view , the experiences, fears, hopes, or values that shaped it. Often , people aren’t used to being asked. They expect attack or dismissal so when curiosity shows up instead, it disarms defensiveness. Suddenly, the conversation isn’t a battle; it’s an exchange. I’ve seen it happen in small ways. In online chats with people from different places, when someone asks a real question instead of arguing, the whole mood shifts. People start sharing stories. They don’t always agree, but they start to understand each other a little better. That small shift matters. This works on a bigger scale too. Whether it’s arguments about politics, climate, or rights, things get stuck when everyone thinks they already know the full truth. Questions break that stuck feeling. They let us see new sides, find common ground, and maybe even solve problems together. Think about how polarized things have become , elections, social issues, even basic facts get twisted into team sports. When we assume we already know everything about “the other side,” we stop learning. But curiosity reminds us that no one has the complete picture. Every perspective is shaped by partial experiences. Asking questions helps fill in the gaps. It reveals shared human concerns underneath the divide like wanting safety for our families, fairness in opportunities, or a planet that future generations can thrive on. Those common threads don’t solve everything overnight, but they make collaboration possible instead of impossible.  Photo by Nicole Baster on Unsplash Global Citizens Circle shows this in action. Their Circles bring people together from all ages and places to talk without needing to win. Questions are welcomed, not shut down. Listening happens first. I’ve seen how that builds trust. When people feel heard, they open up. When they open up, change becomes possible. It builds trust and shows that understanding can come before agreeing. Young people especially have this superpower. We’re growing up in a noisy, divided world, but many of us still ask “why” and “what if.” We wonder about fairness, about the future, about how to make things better. That wondering keeps hope alive. It reminds us that the world isn’t finished changing. Every question we ask is a step toward something kinder, fairer, more connected. Of course, asking questions isn’t always easy. It can feel risky especially when opinions run hot or when you’re afraid of looking unsure. But that’s why it’s powerful. It takes courage to say, “I don’t know; tell me more.” It takes strength to listen without jumping in to correct. In divided times, that’s revolutionary. When we choose questions over conclusions, we choose connection over isolation. We remind ourselves and others that people are more than the side they choose to take. We’re stories, struggles, dreams. Curiosity just lets us meet each other there. Here’s something simple anyone can try this week: When you see or hear something you disagree with — in person, online, or even in your own head — stop for a second and ask one honest question. “What’s behind that view?” or “What part of this is hardest for you?” Just one question. And remember: the goal isn’t to agree; it’s to learn something new about the person across from you. If this speaks to you, feel free to share your own question or join a Circle — small steps go a long way. “The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existing.” — Albert Einstein Mariam P. is a young Afghan woman passionate about technology, education, and creating opportunities for women. She continues her studies online while volunteering and participating in global leadership programs. She enjoys reading, exploring art, and engaging in a variety of extracurricular activities, including digital projects. Living through years of conflict and restrictions has shaped her belief that learning, commitment, and community are powerful forms of healing and hope. Please note: 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 choose questions over conclusions, we choose connection over isolation. We remind ourselves and others that people are more than the side they choose to take. We’re stories, struggles, dreams. Curiosity just lets us meet each other there." -Mariam P.  By Theo Spanos Dunfey September 21st – International Day of Peace – Earth, Wind and Fire day – the birth of my first grandchild, Milo. Oh, how the confluence of these events gives me pause to reflect on this past year. You see, I became a grandmother on the 21st of September, a date I had forgotten, until a colleague reminded me, was established in 1981 by the United Nations as the International Day of Peace. It’s also a date that is recognized especially by my generation as the night when the band Earth, Wind and Fire sang and asked the question, “Do you remember/ The 21st night of September?/Love was changing the minds of pretenders/ While chasing the clouds away.” There’s surely something profound for me in this mix of the pursuit of global peace, the music of my late teens, and now the birth of my first grandchild. Though I won’t do justice to describing why it’s profound for me, I will give it a try. The ideal of achieving global peace is something that I’ve worked towards throughout my career. Listening deeply to and learning so much from those who have faced the unimaginable horrors of conflict and war have left me humbled and committed to doing what I can to advance, if only a small bit, the prospects for peace. Those prospects grow when we come together to talk and we pay attention to how we talk to one another. It is with respect and an abiding trust in the inherent dignity of all people that “talk” can lead to understanding and ultimately to peace. It’s not an easy, straight or short line between the two, but history has proven its worth. I think of Northern Ireland and the countless hours, days and years that it took to find a semblance of peace through the Good Friday Agreement. I believe the words of Nelson Mandela when he said, “The best weapon is to sit down and talk.” I respect the insights of Gloria Steinem, when she wrote in her book "My Life on the Road," “If you want people to listen to you, you have to listen to them. If you hope people will change how they live, you have to know how they live. If you want people to see you, you have to sit down with them eye-to-eye.” I’ve seen where prospects for peace expand with respectful, civil dialogue, and I feel hope in the act of nurturing it. I’m no less moved by the power of music to motivate, heal and inspire activism for a more peaceful world. It is a universal language that can sometimes soothe the soul. For me, a child of the 60s and 70s, music that brought me solace in that particular time of upheaval was soft, melodic, and soothing, or happy, lively and fun. Some were undoubtedly moved more by the hard rock of the day, but that wasn’t me. I return to the significance of Earth, Wind and Fire, a band whose songs featured poetic lyrics about universal love, harmony, spirituality, and consciousness. That’s what I liked, that’s what made me smile and sing along. When my grandson Milo was born on the 21st night of September, how I smiled and sang silently in my head the words of Earth, Wind and Fire’s perennially popular song, “September.” Of course I was beyond happy and filled with the peace and joy of knowing Milo and my daughter McKayla were healthy, safe and surrounded by family and friends filled with love for them and Nolan, the proud father and partner.  Theo and her grandson Milo. But, my dearest Milo, my prince of peace, I can’t help but worry. It is what I do best, though I try my hardest to overcome it. The world you have been born into will confront you with great challenges, and that scares me, not because I think your generation will be unable to survive. I believe you will, but it will take great effort, strategic initiative, perseverance and hope to envision and forge a new world of peace, justice and prosperity for all. You will need to work together in a world that tries to divide. You will need to learn the difference between fact and fiction in a world that tries to confuse and conflate the two. You will need stay true to your values in a world that tries to pull you away. I know you and your peers will do it, but the unknown still scares me. Nonetheless, it’s a new year and I refuse to succumb to the messages the world has imposed on me this past year. I can acknowledge and feel the pain of loneliness, the despair of war, the devastation wrought by climate change and the chaos of collapsing democratic values and institutions, but I will not and cannot give up hope for a more peaceful world. I will continue to put that hope into action for my own sweet Milo and for all of the precious new lives that come into our world with nothing but the expectation of nourishment, warmth and love. 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. Listening deeply to and learning so much from those who have faced the unimaginable horrors of conflict and war have left me humbled and committed to doing what I can to advance, if only a small bit, the prospects for peace."  By Dr. Esperanza Freitchen Webster’s Dictionary defines pivot as: to adapt or improve by adjusting or modifying something (such as a product, service, or strategy). At this stage in my mid-to-late career, after decades in higher education, nonprofits, and K–12 charter schools, I find myself reflecting deeply on that definition. My entire professional life has been rooted in expanding educational access for marginalized and underserved communities. I’ve been doing what we now call “DEI work” long before the acronym existed. Two years ago, I stepped into what felt like the pinnacle of that work — a senior leadership role at a major university in my hometown. It pulled together every thread of my experience: higher education, multicultural student affairs, diversity and inclusion, and community impact. The opportunity felt aligned with my purpose. And as a bonus, my youngest daughter attended the same university, receiving a tuition discount because I was an employee. From the outside, and honestly from the inside too, it looked like I had finally landed the job. I was back on a campus, shaping strategy, rebuilding a team, and steering initiatives that mattered deeply. It was hard at first — my team had been through significant turmoil. They were skeptical, guarded, unsure of my intentions and leadership style. But I trusted my belief in authentic leadership. I showed up every day with consistency, transparency, and empathy. Slowly, brick by brick, trust formed. By the six-month mark, we were healing, rebuilding, and imagining new possibilities. By late summer 2024, I felt confident enough to discuss my role with my supervisor. I was underpaid and carrying far more responsibility than the position reflected. She agreed we should work with HR to re-map and elevate the role. For the first time in a long time, I felt aligned, valued, and hopeful. I was thriving. Then came November. The unexpected results of the 2024 election hit like a boulder. Almost overnight, discussions about growth and promotion evaporated. Higher education nationwide was thrust into upheaval. Policies affecting minority-serving institutions, women’s research, global microcampuses, outreach services, and anything that resembled DEI were called into question or outright dismantled. When the U.S. Department of Education released its “Dear Colleague” letter that February, I felt the rumbling under my feet. Something foundational was shifting. By early spring, the environment in my division grew increasingly tense. Micromanagement escalated. Decisions were increasingly made to dilute, minimize, or erase student-centered initiatives, especially those supporting students of color, queer students, disabled students, and other marginalized identities. It felt like we were being asked to hide our work — as if equity had become a liability rather than a value. And that was the moment I realized my values were in jeopardy. So I began to explore new roles — first casually, then more urgently. Internal postings, other universities, local nonprofits, national organizations, EdTech. I wanted to stay connected to education and community, but I also needed to protect my integrity, my energy, and frankly, my sanity. May confirmed my fears. A meeting between my supervisor and the incoming provost created a tension I couldn’t ignore. Her sudden withdrawal and silence said everything she didn’t. My intuition — that familiar, uncomfortable knowing — pulsed louder and louder. On May 20, my supervisor told me verbally that she would likely not be retaining me — and that my direct reports would be laid off as well. She questioned my work, my capacity, and even my dedication. It was cruel, abrupt, and deeply personal. I tried to reason with her, but the door was closed. The next day, she confirmed it: eight positions, including mine, would collapse into two. When I asked about applying, she told me I shouldn’t bother — that even my own team would be “more competitive” than I was. In that moment, my years of work, leadership, and contributions were reduced to nothing. She offered empty reassurances — references, placement support, HR transfers — but I see now they were attempts to soften her own fear and preserve her own position. On June 2, 2025 — my birthday — I received my official layoff notice. I stayed until June 23, closing out projects and packing up my office, holding back tears I didn’t want to shed in a place I once loved. Then began the grind. I applied for over 300 jobs from February through September. I invested in career coaching, résumé rewrites, and new job boards. Out of hundreds of applications, I received nine interviews and three second rounds. One organization took me through three rounds only to tell me I was “overqualified.” I applied in every sector imaginable: healthcare, gaming, utilities, social media, education, defense, even industries I’d barely considered before. I leaned on my transferable skills like they were life rafts. Then, almost randomly, I applied to an EdTech company providing supplemental transportation for McKinney-Vento students — something that still connected to educational access. I moved through a phone screen and three interviews in less than 30 days and received an offer. The speed and efficiency shocked me. I began the role last month. The learning curve has been steep. Shifting from the public sector to the private sector has required rewiring how I think, work, and communicate. I stepped back from leadership into an individual contributor position with a level of oversight and structure that feels unfamiliar. I’ve had to learn new software at lightning speed and adjust to a new culture. But I’m also relieved. I have income again. Health insurance. Stability. The ability to contribute to my household without fear or guilt. I work remotely, which has its own advantages. And while the pay is lower than my previous role, it aligns with the market — and right now, employment itself is a blessing. And yet… I feel lost. I feel disconnected. I miss community. I miss being where the people are. I miss leading, mentoring, problem-solving, and building something greater than myself. I feel grateful, yes — but also restless, conflicted, and hungry for alignment again. This pivot has taken a toll. It has challenged my identity and my sense of purpose. It has forced me to confront uncomfortable questions about what I truly want versus what I can reasonably expect in this job market. And just when I began to wonder whether I should settle into this new reality, three different people — who don’t know each other — sent me two CEO job openings in my local community. Completely unprompted. Maybe it’s coincidence. Maybe it’s intuition. Maybe it’s a sign that the story isn’t over — that this pivot is still unfolding. Time will tell. But for now, I’m learning, adjusting, and listening closely for what comes next. Dr. Esperanza Freitchen is a native of Tucson and a lifelong Arizona resident. She has over 20 years of experience working in nonprofits and higher education organizations in a variety of capacities, including fundraising, grant writing, project management, and executive leadership. As a consultant, she focuses on leadership development and strategic planning for community-based organizations. Her work has led her to speak at statewide conferences and offer training on workplace communication, cultural competence, allyship, and intersectionality. Dr. Freitchen was a first-generation student and has dedicated her career to removing barriers to accessing postsecondary education for historically marginalized populations. She holds a BA in Spanish Literature from the University of Arizona, an MS and MBA from Western Governors University, and an Ed.D. in Leadership and Innovation from Arizona State University. She is a graduate of UC Berkeley’s Executive Leadership Academy, the Hispanic Leadership Institute, Greater Tucson Leadership’s Lead Tucson, CSU Fullerton’s LIFT program, and is a member of the Sunnyside Foundation’s Hall of Fame. She is also a proud Star Wars nerd and shameless Disney Adult. She and her family own Presidio Comics, a Tucson-based comics and collectibles retail store. Please note: 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. Decisions were increasingly made to dilute, minimize, or erase student-centered initiatives, especially those supporting students of color, queer students, disabled students, and other marginalized identities. It felt like we were being asked to hide our work — as if equity had become a liability rather than a value." - Dr. Esperanza Freitchen  By Mariam P. When people hear about Afghanistan, they often think of war, loss, and restrictions. But behind all the headlines, there’s another story that is less told but deeply true. It’s the story of Afghan youth who, despite living in crisis and uncertainty, continue to find strength, hope, and purpose. I have seen this resilience in the faces of young people around me — friends, classmates, and even strangers online. Many of them have lost access to schools, jobs, and even basic freedoms, yet they still find ways to learn, to dream, and to stay connected. Hope has quietly become our form of resistance. For many Afghan youth, mental health has become one of the biggest challenges. The constant fear of the unknown, not knowing what tomorrow will bring, often leads to anxiety, sadness, or hopelessness. Yet, we rarely talk about mental health openly. In Afghan culture, these topics are still surrounded by silence. People are taught to “be strong,” to not show emotion, and to move on. But strength doesn’t mean hiding pain. Sometimes, real strength is found in facing it and choosing to grow from it. Learning as Healing Education has always been more than just lessons and grades for us; it has become a lifeline. When girls’ schools were closed and universities restricted, many young people turned to online learning. They joined free virtual programs, watched lessons on YouTube, or created small online study circles. These moments of learning make us feel alive again. Even though our opportunities are limited, we try to create our own. Some teach younger students at home, some start small study groups, and others volunteer online. Through these efforts, we remind ourselves that education cannot be fully banned, not when it lives inside us. Community as a Source of Strength In difficult times, community becomes everything. In Afghanistan, we rely on each other to survive — emotionally and practically. But for girls, this connection has a deeper meaning. We often say that we are all we have because society doesn’t protect or support us the way it should. Patriarchy still controls every part of our lives, from what we wear to whether we can study or work. So we lift each other up. We share resources, lessons, and opportunities. When one of us learns something new, we teach the others. We encourage each other not to give up, even when everything feels unfair. This sisterhood among Afghan girls is one of the strongest communities I have ever seen. It’s where we find hope, love, and the courage to continue. Online spaces have also created a kind of global community for Afghan youth. Through digital programs and leadership fellowships, we meet people from other cultures who remind us that we are not alone. Intercultural dialogue gives us a sense of belonging that many of us have lost in our own country. Learning from people who listen, understand, and support us helps rebuild our confidence and reminds us that our stories matter.  Finding Purpose Amid Pain When your country is in crisis, it’s easy to lose sight of purpose. But Afghan youth continue to prove that purpose can grow from pain. Many young people are using their voices to raise awareness about mental health, equality and education rights. Some start small campaigns on social media, while others join global programs or local volunteer groups. We don’t have perfect systems or many resources but we have determination. Our hope doesn’t come from comfort; it comes from the belief that one day things can be different. Resilience isn’t something we are born with; it’s something we build, piece by piece, through every hardship we face. For Afghan youth, resilience has become a quiet revolution. It shows in how we keep learning, helping and dreaming even when the world feels heavy. The Role of Global Solidarity Support from international communities matters more than many realize. When global organizations open doors for Afghan youth to learn or share their voices, it gives us visibility and hope. It reminds us that our stories are not forgotten. Intercultural dialogue and inclusion are key to healing divided societies. When people from different cultures listen to one another, stereotypes begin to fade and understanding grows. That’s why spaces like Global Citizens Circle are so meaningful. They bring people together not just to talk but to truly see one another as human beings with shared struggles and dreams. A Message of Hope Despite everything, I still believe in the power of youth especially Afghan youth to create change. Even if we can’t always change our environment, we can change how we respond to it. We can continue to learn, support each other and speak up for those who cannot. One day, I hope mental health will no longer be a taboo topic in Afghanistan. I hope that every young person, especially girls, can study freely and chase their dreams. Until then, we will keep doing what we can: learning, teaching, connecting, and hoping. Because sometimes, resilience is not about winning. It’s about refusing to give up. Mariam P. is a young Afghan woman passionate about technology, education, and creating opportunities for women. She continues her studies online while volunteering and participating in global leadership programs. She enjoys reading, exploring art, and engaging in a variety of extracurricular activities, including digital projects. Living through years of conflict and restrictions has shaped her belief that learning, commitment, and community are powerful forms of healing and hope. Please note: 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. Resilience isn’t something we are born with; it’s something we build, piece by piece, through every hardship we face. For Afghan youth, resilience has become a quiet revolution. It shows in how we keep learning, helping and dreaming even when the world feels heavy." - Mariam P.  By Shawn Carey Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a distant promise. It is here, influencing how we learn, work, and even how communities make decisions. But AI does not arrive neutral. It carries the assumptions, values, and priorities of its creators. If those do not match the people who use it, the result can be alienation, or worse, harm. That is why the idea of value alignment matters so much. At its core, it is about ensuring AI systems reflect the values of the people they serve. But as any global citizen knows, values do not look the same everywhere. What one society considers ethical or respectful may not land the same way in another. The challenge, and opportunity, is to design AI that can hold this diversity without erasing it. Western Perspectives: Individual Freedom and Choice In much of the West, the story of human dignity is often told through individual autonomy. AI designed for this context emphasizes personal control: a health platform that gives patients full access to their own data, or an education app that adapts to each student’s unique goals. The guiding principle is self-determination. Eastern Perspectives: Harmony and Collective Good Across many Eastern traditions influenced by Confucian, Taoist, and Buddhist thought, community and harmony take center stage. Here, AI should optimize not just for the individual, but for balance across the whole. A smart city system, for example, might prioritize public health, efficient energy use, and smoother traffic flow, lifting the quality of life for everyone. The guiding principle is that the community rises together, or not at all. Indigenous Perspectives: Stewardship and Interconnection Indigenous and Native American traditions remind us that our circle of responsibility extends beyond ourselves: to land, ancestors, and future generations. AI aligned with this worldview would take the long view, tracking environmental change, weaving traditional ecological wisdom into modern systems, and protecting resources for those yet to come. It is not about short-term convenience, but about being a good ancestor. The Global Citizen Perspective: Holding the Tension What does this all mean when AI platforms operate across borders? A global citizen perspective pushes us to resist one-size-fits-all answers. Instead, it calls for pluralism and empathy: acknowledging different ways of being human, while also recognizing our shared responsibility to one another and the planet. Immanuel Kant wrote, “Act so that you treat humanity, whether in your own person or in that of another, always at the same time as an end and never merely as a means.” This principle resonates with the need for AI systems to respect people’s dignity rather than reducing them to data points. Kant also envisioned a form of global citizenship grounded in hospitality, where encounters with cultural difference required respect and mutual recognition. These insights remind us that the task of AI is not only to pursue efficiency, but to uphold dignity while honoring the diversity of human communities. This perspective asks hard but necessary questions:
Global citizenship does not mean erasing cultural difference. It means building bridges between them, so AI can flex to context while still promoting shared goals. Principles for Moving Forward For AI to live up to its potential as a global citizen’s tool, developers and policymakers can ground their work in a few commitments:
Final Thought AI gives us a choice. It can flatten the world into a single mold, or it can reflect the richness of human diversity while reminding us of our shared fate. Approached through the lens of global citizenship, AI is not just about being smart or efficient. It is about being wise, humble, and deeply human, serving not just me, or us, but all of us together. Shawn Carey studied philosophy under Professor Eleanor Dunfey-Freiburger and combines that early foundation with extensive experience in educational assessment and technology. His work focuses on delivering inclusive solutions that meet students where they are while honoring diversity. He currently serves as Portfolio and PMO Manager at Measurement Incorporated, where he helps shape AI-driven scoring solutions that advance fairness and innovation in student assessment. He also serves as a Global Advisor with Global Citizens Circle (GCC), advancing dialogue on the societal impacts of AI and global equity. 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. Global citizenship does not mean erasing cultural difference. It means building bridges between them, so AI can flex to context while still promoting shared goals. 
by Kayla Stoll
Education is the bridge that separates world crises from global understanding. A single piece of knowledge, combined with the right intentions, can be the deciding factor in history's course. When intertwined with widespread acknowledgment, mankind can work to reshape the world through language and by breaking down barriers. Even if our opinions do not match, educated understanding among a population recognizes all issue sides with equal merit, and uses it to build relationships, even among disagreement. Education lacks when deprived of the opportunity to experience the world… even the most intellectual person secluded to confinement will have nothing to found curiosity. Cities, technology screens, and poverty are mankind’s modern confines, drifting away as “separate” from the natural world, fueling this lack of education. Community, connections, and compassion are the principles that can save the world. The environment maintains its secrets, openly exposing its true colors, whilst keeping surprises—like the “how” and “why” behind such complexities—hidden, waiting for the next pioneers, filled with innate curiosity about its processes, to claim the next discoveries. Yet in our solidarity among our manmade pleasures, too many are not granted the chance to foster such curiosity. It is in the presence of a village—such as the international Global Citizens Circle—that we share knowledge and observations, wholeheartedly raising these future pioneers, who will inspire all generations. Many environmental crises could be remedied through the spread of education—microplastics, greenhouse gas emissions, and fast-fashion waste. The truth behind these issues are masked by a facade of convenience and economic benefit, driving a great canyon between Mother Nature and mankind; a canyon that can only be bridged by awareness. Achieving eco-friendliness is an adaptation, requiring lifestyle commitments for long-term effects, such as adopting reusable cotton bags, metal water bottles, and even switching your plastic cutting board for wood or bamboo. Yet humans innately resist contributing to long-term solutions—yet unwitnessed—compared to immediate, tangible results. Awareness, inspired by community connections, can open this narrow frame of time into a world view: a mental picture of our actions’ consequences, fueling the positive evolution of mankind’s relationship with our planet. Education—the bridge that separates world crises from global understanding. A united society, universally connected through relationships, working for the common good. Global Citizens Circle seamlessly weaves endless backgrounds, ethnicities, and lifestyles through the work of compassionate individuals who instinctively know which connections will change society for the better. This network is the foundation for educating others, making all the world’s stories into a single anthem for us all. Community, connections, compassion; the principles that will safeguard our planet for future generations and save the world.
Kayla Stoll is a 20-year-old naturalist and passionate environmental educator from Bedford, NH. Throughout the last decade, she has been committed to planet advocacy—from organic agriculture to plastic pollution—focused on influencing positive change. She has spent the past seven years researching the plastic pollution crisis, encouraging individuals to take small steps toward improving their environmental footprint.
Kayla is an ecohydrologist finishing her sophomore year at SNHU, earning a degree in environmental science and hopes to pursue environmental engineering in the future. She is also an avid snowboarder, rock climber, herbalist, hiker, and photographer. With published environmental articles in Greet Bedford Magazine, Planet Forward Magazine, Kayla also has an Earth-education YouTube channel (Earthling Impact). She has been featured in SNHU productions and was a TEDxSNHU speaker in February 2025, speaking about environmental education in schools. it is her dream to influence others to step away from plastics and lead more planet-friendly lives. Kayla is part of Global Citizens Circle’s Emerging Leaders program, with a desire to further spread the message of hope and education toward bettering our world.
Please note: 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.
It is in the presence of a village—such as the international Global Citizens Circle—that we share knowledge and observations, wholeheartedly raising these future pioneers, who will inspire all generations. Over the past year, we’ve celebrated the 50th anniversary of Global Citizens Circle—reflecting with gratitude on a remarkable journey, the people who’ve shaped it, and the lasting impact of its work. As we honor this legacy, we are also looking ahead—committed to ensuring that our mission continues to thrive for generations to come. On May 23, so many came together globally to celebrate the 90th birthday of GCC’s founder, Jerry Dunfey. As part of this heartfelt tribute, a very special short film premiered during a private virtual screening. Created by GCC Board Member Michael Lockett and narrated by Global Advisor Marguerite Mariama, the film tells the story of GCC’s evolution and the many activists across the globe who have fueled its mission. It also highlights a new generation of emerging leaders poised to carry this important work forward. We invite you to watch “Global Citizens Circle: Forward to Fifty and Beyond” and be inspired by the journey—and the path that lies ahead.  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. |
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