Dear Friend,
When Thandi first came to Global Kids in tenth grade, she came to fulfill a community
service requirement. What she discovered instead was a world far bigger than the one
she had ever imagined. Drawn to Global Kids’ focus on global affairs and social justice,
she became deeply engaged—returning year after year as a youth leader during the
school year and summers. Before joining Global Kids, Thandi had never considered a
future in sustainability or environmental work. Today, she is studying Environmental
Studies and preparing for a career dedicated to environmental justice.
Through our Global Citizenship programming, Thandi was selected as a Global Kids
Youth Ambassador and traveled to Dubai for the United Nations’ COP28 Climate
Conference. There, she encountered new cultures, perspectives, and global leaders
working to address the climate crisis. She recalls how those experiences expanded her
understanding of the interconnected world and revealed the power of young people’s
voices in shaping solutions. An earlier moment of inspiration — hearing a Director of
Sustainability describe guiding a company’s ethical and environmental decisions —
sparked a vision that would shape her future career path.
“I see Global Kids’ impact in my leadership,” Thandi shares. “I am often advocating for
myself, my peers, and my community — not just making my voice heard but speaking to
those who have the power to change unjust situations.” Through hands-on projects and
real-world engagement, she built the confidence, professionalism, and global mindset
needed to imagine a future beyond her immediate surroundings. “Global Kids taught me
that I am not limited to what is around me,” she says.
Imagine a future shaped by young leaders, like Thandi who understand the world — and
are prepared to change it. That future starts with you. Your donation to Global Kids is
more than a contribution; it is a powerful statement that young voices matter. Give
today and open doors to opportunity, leadership, and global citizenship for the next
Thandi — and the many who will follow.
With gratitude,
Dominique R. Jones
Executive Director
