Global Citizenship and 21st Century Skills

global citizenship
Global Citizenship is very important, at Aristotle’s Cafe, we believe that as the world becomes more connected it’s more important than ever for individuals to be equipped with 21st century skills to effectively communicate, work, and excel. Luckily, we are not alone, there are other groups working towards connecting people from diverse backgrounds and increasing empathy along the way. (Have a look at the Listen First Project)
 
We’ve seen a growing trend in how organizations are looking at global citizenship – they are starting to make it part of their everyday vocabulary. They are also looking to find ways to empower their members to become better at thinking in a way that is culturally intelligent and nuanced in understanding.
 
In our experience it will take two very important elements coming together in order to create sustainable positive change – global citizenship and social entrepreneurship. In this article we’ll do our best to cover both of them.
aristotles cafe unicef

What is Global Citizenship?

In our definition – a global citizen is someone who has a complex and deep understanding of the world as well as their place in it. With this knowledge, they are able to take an active role in their community, and work collaboratively with others to make the world more equal, just, and sustainable. Global citizenship puts focus on a holistic and interconnected view of politics, economics, and human rights.

Throughout our work, we empower individuals to develop 21st century skills to be successful in the world. By building immersive workshops and experiential learning we’ve seen multiple benefits our in-company and public trainings.
Placing value on global citizenship helps people to:

  • Think critically
  • Develop mindfulness
  • Grow as a Leader
  • Challenge ignorance and intolerance
  • Get involved in their local, national, and global communities
  • Find voice and the necessary tools to make positive change

Maybe more notable than any of the benefits to individuals is the excitement it creates in people to discover their passion find ways to achieve their goals.

Why is Global Citizenship so Important?

global citizenship why
As we continue to face even more challenges such as climate change, food shortages, migration, and limited resources we have to make a decision. People who don’t take a global mindset will not be prepared to deal with the real-world issues of today effectively. Simply believing you live inside of a bubble will not change the fact that each system and continent is connected.
 
Whether that is a cultural connection such as a shared language, or an economic connection such as the Euro that we see throughout Europe. Understanding the inter-workings of these complex inter-related systems and how to communicate and work with them is the only way for individuals to take charge of the world they want to create.
 
It’s about finding your place in the world and finding a way to make significant changes. The other option is inaction and uncertainty, two states of being that we don’t think anyone should be in, especially not the youth that will be the future decision makers with the power to make an impact.
 

What Does Global Citizenship Mean to You?

Now that you know our take on it, what does global citizenship mean to you? Leave a comment below, or if you’d like to get in touch with us about our one of our Programs send an email to info@aristotlescafe.com
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