Creating a Better Future

How Do We Create a More Just and Equitable Future?

The United Nations is just one organization that works to build peace in conflict zones, and to care for people in need.  Other ways that peace-building can occur is through the work of foreign aid by countries like Canada, or by non-governmental organizations like Amnesty International or Human Rights watch.  

There are also projects by charities that are smaller community initiatives that can have a positive impact on communities.  Let's take a closer look at some of these 'grassroots projects' that are lifting up and empowering people around the world. 

GRASSROOTS DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS

 All of these videos are from places that have overcome war and conflict, and are now rebuilding. They are hopeful and inspiring!

• Pay attention to aspects of the project that make it effective, and empowering. 
• A common factor in all of these films is the restoration of dignity and purpose to citizens.  
• They also create economic opportunities for people in need. 

Watch at least TWO videos, and the record something meaningful about the ways in which people are being empowered, and lifted out of poverty.

VIDEO 1- Watch the following video Bikes to Rwanda about a NGO that is working in Rwanda to help rebuild the country after the civil war in 1994. 

VIDEO 2 - This is an inspiring film about Landfill Harmonic Orchestra, an orchestra of children living in the slums of Paraguay, who have made instruments out of recycled materials. 

VIDEO 3 - Malala and her father create schools for girls

VIDEO 4 - Moving Windmills - The William Kwamkwamba Story (now a Netflix movie)

VIDEO 5 & 6 - The Favelas of Brasil - Fighting poverty, violence and drug cartels

Last, these are two videos that show children and youth from the Favelas in Brasil, overcoming poverty, an international drug trade and corrupt police and government to get off the streets.  

• The next video is below, about how youth in one of the most dangerous slums in Brasil are finding purpose and confidence through a grassroots ballet school. 

Want to know more about sports, favelas and Brasil?  Watch this inspiring video about one of Brasil's soccer stars Gabriel Jesus, who comes from the streets of Rio de Janeiro and now plays for Manchester United.