GLOBAL KIDS CHRONICLES | NOVEMBER 2024 UPDATE
- Global Kids
- Nov 26, 2024
- 4 min read
Giving Tuesday Edition š
Dear Global Kids Community,
As Thanksgiving approaches, we reflect on how grateful we are for the unwavering support of our friends and partners. Your generosity makes it possible for us to empower youth to become catalysts for change and lead bright, impactful futures.
This month, our students have seized remarkable opportunities, from advocating for climate justice at COP29 in Azerbaijan to celebrating Haitiās vibrant culture at a special embassy event in Washington, D.C. In New York City, we proudly welcomed senior leadership from the Department for Youth and Community Development (DYCD) for a visit, Ā while across our programs supported over 1,000 college applications, thanks to SUNY and CUNYās fee waivers.
As we count down to Giving Tuesday, we invite you to join us in creating even more transformative opportunities for young people to thrive. Thank you for standing with usātogether, weāre making an incredible impact.
Global Kids Youth Leaders Take the Stage at United Nations COP29
Global Kids high schoolers Munab and Ahmed made their voices heard on the global stage in the fight against climate change at the COP29 in Azerbaijan.Ā
Global Kids made waves at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, as two exceptional youth leaders, Munab and Ahmed, joined by dedicated staff member Emma, proudly represented our mission on the world stage.
Partnering with Peace Boat US, Munab and Ahmed participated in powerful panels on youth leadership in climate justice, actively engaged in key COP29 Azerbaijan events, and brought fresh perspectives to this global forum. Munab, a passionate climate change advocate from John Adams High School, championed critical issues like biodiversity loss and food security, with an emphasis on social justice for vulnerable communities. Ahmed, a junior at William Cullen Bryant High School, highlighted the urgent public health implications of climate change, connecting it to air quality, heart health and community well-being.
Through their passion and leadership, these young changemakers inspired global action and proved that youth voices are essential in shaping a more sustainable future.
Click through the gallery below to see highlights from Global Kids at COP29 ā
Giving Tuesday is Next Tuesday!
Give Global Kidsā Youth the World
As we count down to Giving Tuesday on December 3, we encourage you to make Global Kids a part of your year-end giving plans. This year, Global Kids has served over 10,000 youth across New York City and Washington, D.C., empowering them through academic growth, wellness initiatives, college and career readiness, and a deeper understanding of their place in the world. Now more than ever, our programs are essential. Your donation can make a lasting impact ā join us next Tuesday to help Give Our Kids the World. Ā
DYCD Senior Leadership Visits Global Kids at High School for Global Citizenship
On Wednesday, November 20, New York City Department for Youth and Community Development (DYCD) Deputy Commissioner Susan Haskell and Assistant Commissioner Tracy Caldron visited our COMPASS High program at the High School of Global Citizenship. During their visit, students shared heartfelt testimonials about how Global Kidsā out-of-school-time programs have transformed their lives ā helping them explore their interests, forge new friendships and experience lifechanging opportunities like international travel.
Coinciding with Climate Action Week, the visit also featured an interactive showcase led by the schoolās Green Team ā Global Kidsā climate justice club. Students engaged the commissioners in fun, carnival-themed activities focused on reducing, reusing, and recycling, designed to build environmental awareness among the entire school population.
We extend our deepest gratitude to DYCD for its invaluable support, including significant funding and technical assistance for our out-of-school-time and employment programming in NYC schools. Together, weāre building brighter futures for our youth!
Global Kids Rallies Youth to Apply to SUNY and CUNY
This fall, both the State University of New York (SUNY) and City University of New York (CUNY) waived application fees for all New York City students ā a remarkable opportunity for college-bound seniors. To ensure our students could maximize this benefit, Global Kids provided comprehensive support to guide them through the application process.
A highlight of these efforts was our CUNY Application Party, where students from eight partnering schools came together to receive individualized support from our staff at Global Kidsā headquarters on November 11. Combined with activities across our 14 high school sites, these efforts enabled the submission of 1,000 fee-waived applications to SUNY and CUNY schools. At Global Kids, weāre proud to help open doors to higher education and empower students to take the next step toward achieving their dreams.
Dominique Jones Named a 2024 Power Player in Education
Congratulations to our Executive Director, Dominique Jones, for being recognized as a 2024 Power Player in Education by amNY Metro & Politics NY. This prestigious honor recognizes a diverse group of dedicated NYC leaders who are championing access and innovation across the education landscape. Global Kids is honored to be recognized, and celebrates Dominiqueās bold and unwavering dedication to ensuring every young person has access to quality education ā a fundamental human right.
Global Kids DC Celebrates Haitiās Vibrant Culture at Embassy Event
Global Kids high school students from Washington, D.C. were warmly welcomed by the Embassy of the Republic of Haiti for an immersive experience in Haitian culture, language, food, and music. While Haitiās political and security challenges have made global headlines for weeks, Global Kids aimed to highlight the countryās rich history, beauty, and resilience for our young people. A standout moment was learning about the significance of monte kap (kites) in Haitian culture, during which students had the chance to create their own kites and explore the symbolism behind their colors and shapes. Additionally, our youth expanded their culinary horizons by sampling traditional Haitian dishes, such as Bannann Peze (deep-fried plantains), Pikliz (spicy pickled vegetables), and Kabrit en sos (stewed goat). We had a wonderful time learning about Haitiās heritage and celebrating the countryās vibrant traditions.
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This update is inspiringāit shows how Global Kids continues to create meaningful opportunities for youth, from climate advocacy at COP29 to cultural exchanges and academic support. The highlights demonstrate a strong commitment to empowering young leaders, whether theyāre speaking on biodiversity and public health, celebrating Haitian traditions, or navigating the college application process with fee waivers.
What stands out is the balance between global engagement and local impact: students are not only raising their voices on international stages but also building confidence and skills in their own communities. That sense of resilience and focus reminds me of Slope game, where progress depends on staying sharp and adapting to challenges step by step.
Overall, the update conveys gratitude, momentum, and optimismāshowingā¦
Iām especially impressed by the range of opportunitiesāfrom global advocacy at COP29 to cultural celebrations and academic supportāwhich shows a meaningful commitment to growth on many levels. When I think about this kind of progress, it reminds me of how I approach challenges in Slope Rider, where I need persistence and focus to move forward. In the same way, I believe these students are building momentum toward real change, and Iām grateful to see how collective support can open so many doors for them.
Balancing learning, growth, and purpose is something many young people strive for, and initiatives like these make that journey more meaningfulāalmost like navigating challenges in Among UsĀ with a clear goal. Itās refreshing to see such practical support systemsĀ helping students move forward with confidence.
While dodging spikes and hazardous Geometry Dash traps, players often get the impression that they are "dancing" through the level. Every level feels intense and rewarding because of the music and gameplay, particularly when you eventually finish a challenging stage after several tries.