07 Sep
Global Citizenship Insights, Global Citizenship Learning Program, News

The Most Sought-After Skills for Global Citizenship in Today’s World

Global citizenship is not a fixed identity but a dynamic practice shaped by the skills we cultivate to engage with a complex and unequal world. In an era defined by rapid globalization, political polarization, and shrinking civic spaces, the ability to think critically, act responsibly, and collaborate across difference has never been more urgent. Beyond ideals of empathy and solidarity, global citizenship requires concrete competencies that enable individuals and communities to sustain meaningful change. From reimagining diversity and inclusion, to building financial resilience, to strengthening intercultural competence, the skills explored through the Global Citizenship Learning Program highlight the foundations of...

Continue reading

Read More
29 Aug
Events, Global Citizenship Insights, Global Citizenship Learning Program, News

Building Future-Ready Global Citizens: How AI is Shaping Leadership at the Global Citizenship Learning Program

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has swiftly moved from futuristic concept to everyday reality, dramatically transforming how we learn, work, and address global challenges. From diagnosing diseases to optimizing climate models, AI expands human potential, but alongside these benefits come complex risks: algorithmic bias, deep-fakes that erode trust, significant environmental costs of high-performance computing, and ethical quandaries in how tech is developed and deployed. To lead effectively in this evolving landscape, tomorrow’s leaders need more than curiosity, they require hands-on skills, ethical awareness, critical thinking, and collaboration.At the 2025 Global Citizenship Convention (GCC) in Jena, the Global Citizenship Learning Program (GCLP) guided...

Continue reading

Read More
25 Aug
Global Citizenship Learning Program, News, Projects

‘Edcetera’: AI & Equity, Building Inclusive Futures Through Education and Collaboration

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping the world of work, education, and social interaction. While AI presents enormous opportunities for innovation and efficiency, it also poses a serious risk of deepening existing inequalities. Marginalized groups such as women, people from under-resourced communities, individuals with disabilities, or those marginalized by caste and class are particularly vulnerable to being left behind if they are not given early, inclusive access to digital and AI literacy.According to (OXFAM), over 90% of jobs globally now require some level of digital literacy, yet in many countries, less than 30% of low-income students have...

Continue reading

Read More
25 Aug
Global Citizenship Learning Program, News, Projects

Nurturing Creative Impact: The Sanaa Initiative and the TRAFO Jena Experience

In today's rapidly evolving world, local artists and changemakers often grapple with profound challenges that affect both their professional and personal well-being. A 2024 survey found that 70% of professionals in creative sectors experienced burnout in the past year, a rate notably higher than the 53% reported among workers overall (Livespot). Similarly, over 50% of artists report feelings of isolation due to fragmented support networks and limited access to collaborative opportunities, with a 2024 study by the National Endowment for the Arts finding that 46.4% of arts creators reported not belonging to a social group, highlighting the pervasive sense of...

Continue reading

Read More
31 Jul
Global Citizenship Insights, Global Citizenship Learning Program, News, Senior Fellow Initiatives

From Fellowship to Leadership: A Life of Public Service and Global Connection

In a recent conversation, the Melton Foundation Executive Office connected with Carlos Rilling Tenorio, Senior Melton Fellow and Executive Director in the Office of the President at the University of Chile. A lifelong champion of social equity and global citizenship, Carlos leads strategic initiatives in university governance, institutional planning, and international cooperation.His impact extends beyond national borders. He represented the University of Chile in the Association of Pacific Rim Universities (APRU) and was selected for the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), the U.S. Department of State’s premier professional exchange program. Whether contributing to Chile’s 2023 constitutional process or fostering global...

Continue reading

Read More
22 Mar
Awareness and Advocacy, Global Citizenship Insights, Global Citizenship Learning Program, News

Leadership Beyond the Spotlight: Cultivating Global Citizens for Lasting Change

In conversations about leadership, the focus often falls on bold decision-making, visible impact, and large-scale transformation. But real leadership, the leadership that creates lasting change is often much quieter. It’s found in small actions, in empowering others, and in recognizing that change is not always about taking charge but about stepping back when necessary.Research increasingly supports this shift in perspective. A 2023 McKinsey & Company report on leadership effectiveness found that the most successful leaders in complex, uncertain environments were those who fostered psychological safety, encouraged team autonomy, and focused on collaborative problem-solving rather than command-and-control approaches.For Sophia Kaleta, a...

Continue reading

Read More
20 Oct
Global Citizenship Learning Program, Projects

Breaking Barriers: Insights from the India GCC 2024 with the Solidarity Foundation

"From the seed of need was born an idea." This slogan of the Solidarity Foundation not only encapsulates their mission but also became a lived reality for us during our recent visit. Spending a day with the incredible souls working for and with the Solidarity Foundation during the India Global Citizenship Convention 2024 illuminated the profound impact of their work.Vinod highlighted the necessity of “unlearning” societal misconceptions to better address diversity and inclusivity. One key aspect of this is the simple yet profound act of using proper pronouns. In India, the vernacular offers terms for different genders, and it’s increasingly...

Continue reading

Read More
20 Oct
Global Citizenship Learning Program, Projects

Breaking Taboos, Sparking Change: The Melton Foundation and Youth for Parivarthan at India GCC 2024

In a transformative project visit during the India Global Citizenship Convention 2024, the Melton Foundation and Youth for Parivarthan united to spark meaningful change by addressing gender inequality and challenging outdated social norms, with a focus on menstruation. This visit, held at a government school, aimed to break the silence around menstruation—a subject often stigmatized across India.The Melton Fellows and Youth for Parivarthan engaged with students and teachers, encouraging open conversations about menstrual health and hygiene, a topic that remains sensitive in many parts of the country. The visit provided an opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of understanding...

Continue reading

Read More
19 Oct
Global Citizenship Learning Program, Projects

Inclusion in Action: A Transformative Visit to APD at India GCC 2024

As part of the India Global Citizenship Convention (GCC) 2024, participants embarked on an eye-opening visit to the Association for People with Disabilities (APD) campus. The day was a powerful exploration of how inclusion can be brought to life, showing us how individuals with disabilities are integrated into society, not just through token gestures but with genuine opportunities for empowerment, education, and independence.At the outset, Carlos, a Senior Fellow mentor at India GCC 2024, set the tone for the day with an important message. He urged participants to reflect deeply on what they would learn at APD, highlighting that inclusion...

Continue reading

Read More
05 Nov
Events, Global Citizenship Learning Program, News

Connect, Empower, Transform: Chile Global Citizenship Convention 2023

In October 2023, the Melton Foundation hosted the Chile Global Citizenship Convention (GCC), our annual in-person gathering for participants of the Global Citizenship Learning Program. The Convention brought together around 50 young changemakers from more than six countries, representing diverse cultural, social, and professional backgrounds. Together, they explored how local action can drive global impact, while experiencing the rich culture, geography, and traditions of Chile.The Chile GCC 2023 was designed to go beyond traditional conferences. It offered participants a hands-on learning experience, connecting them directly with local communities, projects, and leaders working at the forefront of sustainability, social development, and...

Continue reading

Read More
01 Mar
Global Citizenship Learning Program, Projects

Melton Fellow works on Badili Zone Library Complete Digitalization Plan – Mukuru Kwa Reuben Slum, Nairobi Kenya

Become part of the team that is bringing computer literacy to every child in Mukuru Kwa Reuben! Donate here today! Every little action counts! Reasons to DonateAcquire the shipping container to be converted to a computer hub to be used by the students in Mukuru Kwa Reuben located in Nairobi Kenya.Computer skills training, coding, and programming sessions will be taking place at the computer hub.Different schools can comfortably conduct their computer sessions in the hub.The hub will enable access to online applications and opportunities to the students.The students will be able to connect with the world as global citizens hence extending...

Continue reading

Read More
09 Apr
Global Citizenship Learning Program, Melton Grant Opportunities, Projects

Inspire for Peace

Project Goal: The goal of the fundraising campaign is to raise $2400 to support the education of internally displaced primary school pupils. Funds needed: 2400 USD  Donate at: bit.ly/InspireForPeace According to Daphne, The Civil Crisis in Cameroon’s English-speaking regions where I come from has had the most impact on education. About 80% of schools in the region have been shut down, affecting the education of over 800,000 children. Beyond the visible and common impacts this has on pupils and students, it has psychological impacts as many of them live in worry every day about what their future is going to look like. Most...

Continue reading

Read More