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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. We recently became aware of "Black and white," a poem written by 10-year-old Olivia Harris, and asked if we might republish it on GCC Voices. According to her mom, Carrie Huggins Harris, Olivia wrote this poem because she wanted to share a piece of herself at her school’s open mic night--and she was excited to be chosen to perform. Through this poem, she explores her identity in a way that invites others to listen, learn, and reflect. Her words speak not just to being biracial, but to anyone who’s ever felt like they don’t fully fit into one box or another. Olivia’s message is powerful: you don’t have to choose just one part of who you are—you can proudly be all of you. Her poem reminds everyone, no matter their age, that their identity is something to be celebrated!  Black and white We are sunshine and moonlight Different like night and day Not stuck between two worlds We make our own way. We are Black and we are white Like zebra stripes Like piano keys Like day and night. Everything in life is different Although it may not seem We all have a purpose We all have a dream. Our hair may be different From braids to curls to waves to swirls Our hair is unique And oh sooo chic. The world will have its rules A box we have to check But there is no box That determines what's next. I am Black I am white I am mom’s sunshine And dad’s moonlight. I am Jamaican I am Bahamian I am British And Romanian. People ask “What are you?” And I say I am me I hope that I am someone Everyone can see. All of us are different But in a way the same Strong and proud and free Our parents' legacy. - Olivia Harris   Olivia Harris is a bright, creative, and confident ten-year-old who lives in Queens, New York. She’s passionate about dance, acting, traveling, and finding new ways to express herself through various forms of art. Whether she’s on stage performing or dreaming up her next project, Olivia shines with imagination and energy. She’s known for dancing and twirling her way through life—literally—spreading joy wherever she goes with her infectious spirit. One of the things she’s most proud of is being biracial. Olivia speaks openly and proudly about her identity and enjoys helping others understand what it means to live in both worlds at once—something she does with wisdom well beyond her years. 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. I am Black 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 David Hudson As an educator we’re not supposed to have favorites, but one of the courses I enjoying teaching the most at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) is our Communication Studio class. It’s a hands-on class designed to give our communication majors real-world experience. It pairs students with local businesses and nonprofits. The clients share a project they’re working on or a communication challenge they’re facing and work with the students to find and implement a solution. Last spring, my students partnered with a Global Citizens Circle (GCC) team to bring some previously recorded videos to a wider audience. They were able to help GCC and learned a great deal in return. In many ways, it was a typical project. Our clients often have some content—audio clips, photos, video, or written material—that they’d like to share. Unfortunately, they often lack the resources to repurpose the material or the skills to tailor the material for a different audience. In this case, it was simply a matter of time. GCC knew what they wanted to accomplish, but just didn’t have enough hands. Indeed, GCC had already generated written summaries of some video recordings, but it all still needed to be packaged for the web. My students loved working with GCC, President and Executive Director Theo Dunfey and Assistant Director Phoebe de Larrabeiti in this case, and really appreciated the feedback they received as they worked on summarizing and adapting the content for the GCC website. Theory is all well and good, but nothing quite replaces a real-world project. In addition, my students had the opportunity to learn about GCC and its mission. They also took a great deal of pride in knowing they helped GCC bring their story to a wider audience. You can see the fruits of this collaboration on GCC’s Dialogue2Action page. I hope you will check out the videos and discussion guides and consider using these powerful tools within your own organizations and networks. David Hudson joined the communication program at SNHU in 2021, bringing vast experience in the IT, consulting, and entrepreneurship realm to public speaking and other courses. After years of pitching to investors, partners, and consumers, he’s honed his ability to explain just about anything to anyone. Hudson earned his BA in Computer Science at Dartmouth College, a Master of Public Administration from the University of New Hampshire, and has been active in the nonprofit sector throughout his career. He’s been a TEDx organizer since 2013, event host, and speaker team co-lead as well as a longtime speaker coach. 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. My students loved working with GCC...theory is all well and good, but nothing quite replaces a real-world project. by Theo Spanos Dunfey As we reflect on the past year, Global Citizens Circle (GCC) remains steadfast in our dedication to fostering a world where peace and understanding prevail. In a time where division often grabs headlines, we stand united in our mission to nurture dialogue, empathy, and collaboration across all boundaries. As we look forward to the New Year, we are filled with hope and determination. Our purpose is peace, and our path leads to endless possibilities. Join us in celebrating the triumphs of the past year and in continuing this important journey towards a brighter, more peaceful future for all. Your support for Global Citizens Circle beyond our 50th year will help: • deepen relational activities among emerging and established leaders and respond to their growing demands for our support • enable us to develop a global network of young peacebuilders and a digital tool for keeping them connected • ensure the continued development of Dialogue2Action videos with accompanying discussion guides • allow for more in-person programming to augment robust online programs • expand our partnerships and regional hubs As always, we appreciate your connection, communication and ongoing support throughout 2024 – and look forward to deepening relationships and creating new ones as we venture into the new year. Together, we can achieve greater peace and understanding in our global communities.  In September: An incredible event with the American Friends of the Parents Circle - Families Forum in Boston. This event exemplifies the kind of critical conversations Global Citizens Circle has been convening for over 50 years. Left to right: Colette Phillips, Priscilla Lee, Judith Thompson, Robi Damelin, Layla Alsheikh , Phoebe de Larrabeiti, Sean O'Kane, and Theo Spanos Dunfey, with Susmik Lama at the front. 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. Together, we can achieve greater peace and understanding in our global communities.  By Dr. Jim Freiburger Two rivers converse Blending fresh, brackish waters Innovate new stream Looking out my window, I witness the energetic, freshwater Exeter River merging with the Tidal Basin River Swampscott. Together they meld into a new passageway to the nearby ocean. Fledgling fish, hatched upriver in the freshwater, swim downstream through the now blended waters, and acclimate as adults in a new ocean setting. The combined rivers created an environment for a new generation of fish to cope with the future. The blended rivers pathway is analogous to the role Global Citizens (GCC) has chosen to create an intergenerational approach to world issues. GCC provides a space in which a younger generation of leaders can converse and share their ideas and enthusiasm with an older generation of peacemakers and leaders. In a recent GCC Circle, an Israeli young man, Yigal Elhanan, and a Palestinian young man, Arab Aramin, shared their stories. Elhanan’s five-year-old sister was killed by a Palestinian bomber. Aramin’s 10-year-old sister was shot by an Israeli soldier. They recreated the role of their parents, founders of the Parent’s Circle for Reconciliation and Peace, had in helping them move through hatred and trauma to become activists for reconciliation and peace. Similarly, intergenerational leaders from Ukraine, Nepal, Syria, Sierra Leone, Afghanistan, India, and America have presented their stories in GCC circles. Several intergenerational leaders are also represented on the GCC advisory council and board. The GCC Emerging Leader program is a model for intergenerational cooperation to develop reconciliation and peace.  Dr. Jim Freiburger is a retired professor of organizational leadership and corporate social responsibility to graduate students from around the world. He currently enjoys applying the Haiku expression and the lens of his camera to capture scenes in nature. Freiburger has been actively associated with Global Citizens Circle during its 50-year existence. In 2022, he authored a memoir, “An Iowa Farm Boy’s Odyssey: Priest, Parent, Professor.“ Contact him at [email protected] 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. GCC provides a space in which a younger generation of leaders can converse and share their ideas and enthusiasm with an older generation of peacemakers and leaders. |
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