Being introduced to TGP has been life-changing in how I approach teaching. Our goal as a team was to create a culturally immersive experience for our students that fostered empathy and understanding while exploring the culture of Tanzania. Our students learned about North Carolina simultaneously with Tanzania. TGP’s curriculum helped drive our study and kept us focused on what was most important. We focused on learning about the culture, traditions, economy, government, and geography of both areas.

The comparison study and interactive read alouds led to wonderful class discussions, situational awareness, and the realization that we are not so different after all. Our students were able to gain new knowledge, shatter any stereotypes, and were excited about viewing the world through a more empathetic lens. Students must be exposed to people and cultures that are different from their everyday life. We can't expect students to have empathy and understanding for others if they are not taught to do so.

Leigh Cook

4th Grade Teacher, Providence Day School

As an educator, I’m responsible for teaching the whole child, not just reading, writing, and math, but also how to be kind, empathetic people. The most meaningful lessons I teach are rooted in character, especially empathy and seeing the world through another’s eyes. While some students come by it naturally, others need it taught, modeled, and nurtured in a safe, loving environment. When my students see beyond themselves and strive to make a positive difference, I know I’ve done my job.

My students are only seven or eight years old, but they want to become actual changemakers, not just read about them. And TGP’s Thriving Global Citizens empathy curriculum helped make that possible.

I truly attribute the connections they felt to the frontloading that your empathy curriculum provided and the language it gave us. Building empathy helped empower our students to want to take action, learn something outside their comfort zone, and make our world a better place.

Morgan Johnson

2nd Grade Teacher, Charlotte Latin School

It is such a joy leading our interactive empathy presentations in schools through the Thriving Global Citizens program. Every time we walk into a classroom, the energy is incredible. Students get so engaged—they sing along, ask thoughtful questions, and show real curiosity about what life is like for kids who live differently than they do.

Watching them make connections, reflect, and take those first steps toward developing empathy is one of the most rewarding parts of my job. Teaching about the Maasai culture in Tanzania is not only fun but a true privilege. You can see the shift in perspective happening right in front of you.

I love learning about the students' fundraising projects and seeing the excitement they bring to getting out into their communities to support Thrive’s work in Tanzania. It’s so encouraging to see young people learning about philanthropy and entrepreneurship at such an early age.

They’re not just hearing about global citizenship, they’re living it!

Kathryn McLeod

Director, Thrive Global Project