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The First Round Winners of the “GYP Volunteer Award” from four countries- May 2023

Second Wave of “GYP Volunteer Award” November 2023

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We are thrilled to announce the 2024 Fall GYP Volunteer Awards winners! This marks the third year that Boston Global Youth Philanthropy has recognized outstanding young volunteers from around the globe. This year’s awards honor nine exceptional students, each demonstrating a remarkable commitment to service, empathy, and global humanitarian efforts.

Three students are recognized for the second year among the awardees, underscoring their continued dedication and inspiring work in their communities. Their sustained efforts reflect the impact that youth can have on pressing humanitarian challenges worldwide.
Please join us in congratulating these young changemakers and celebrating their contributions toward a more compassionate, interconnected world.

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Tiffany  Li　Webber Academy in Calgary, Canada

Tiffany is a Grade 12 student living in Calgary, Canada, who attends Webber Academy. She enjoys debate, dance, art, and music. Tiffany has done debate since she was in Grade 8, and since then, she has participated in provincial, national, and international competitions, receiving team and personal awards. Since she started debating, Tiffany has achieved first place in the 2021 Alberta Regionals, first place in the 2021 Alberta Provincials, first place in the 2021 Impact Debate Tournament, top 10 in the 2022 BP Nationals, second place in the 2021 Jack Howe World School Tournament, and top 12 in the Harvard World Schools Tournament. Tiffany additionally enjoys volunteering and participating in numerous volunteer activities, including teaching others debate.

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Wilson Xie from St. Paul’s School in Concord, New Hampshire

A rower. An artist. A writer. An innovator. An environmental advocate. A volunteer. An individual who strives to serve the greater good. A practical dreamer for a brighter future. Hi! I am Wilson Xie, a junior at St. Paul’s School in Concord, NH. I am part of the cross-country, hockey, and rowing teams and a student passionate about social studies. Outside of school, I did many hours of service in cleaning riverbanks and plateaus, drawing with children with autism, and starting platforms for item exchange and social innovation. I also love writing, drawing, speaking, and creating, so I drove myself to write research papers, host art exhibitions, speak at international conferences, and create my wave-energy harvester.

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Chloe Wang Ernest Manning High School in Calgary, Canada

Hi! My name is Chloe Wang. I am a Grade 11 student at Ernest Manning High School in Calgary, Canada. Optimism, kindness, and a warm heart define my approach to life and relationships. I believe in the power of positivity and the impact a simple act of kindness can have on those around us. Since a young age, I have found joy and self-expression through dancing. It’s not merely a hobby for me. It’s a passion that has been with me throughout my life, shaping my experiences and fostering a deep appreciation for movement and creativity. I am excited about the journey ahead in GYP, where I will continue to learn, grow, and contribute to the rich tapestry of experiences that shape who I am.
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Ivy Li from Beijing No. 2 Middle School, China

Ivy Li is a sophomore at the International Department of Beijing No. 2 Middle School. She serves as the president of the Capital Children’s Research Institute Volunteer Service Society at the school, where she leads members in long-term volunteer initiatives designed to improve the medical experience of sick children and offer them emotional support. Ivy leads a team at the Children’s Health Center of the Capital Institute of Pediatrics every Tuesday and Friday afternoon. They work through the eight floors of the clinic to sort, repair, and sanitize the books on nine shelves. To date, club members have successfully repaired and disinfected over a thousand books and added nearly a hundred new ones.
Passionate about technology, she won first prize in the 2024 China Youth Interstellar Exploration and Innovation Competition finals.

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Boan Chen at Fraser Height Secondary, BC, Canada

Boan Chen is a grade 11 Fraser Height Secondary, Surrey, British Columbia student. Since grade 4, Boan’s favorite hobby is Chinese calligraphy, fostering his creative mindset and critical thinking skills. Amid the undulating high school journey between success and failure, Boan learned the importance of self-awareness and perseverance, which are essential to personal growth. During grade 10 summer break, Boan attended a summer program called ShadOnCampous at Mount Allison University, where he met and collaborated with like-minded colleagues in tackling problems such as the “Real-World Design Project.” It was through this real-life experience that Boan could develop his interpersonal abilities, and he is looking forward to seeing their contributive effects and continuing to self-develop in Boston-Global Youth Philanthropy.

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Kemi (Yuannan) Huang from Salisbury School in Connecticut

Hi! My name is Kemi Huang, and I am a freshman at Salisbury School in Connecticut. I have a very active personality and can talk about everything; helping others when they need me is one thing I always do. I thrive on asking questions, contributing ideas, and creating a vibrant classroom learning environment. Group projects and discussions fuel my passion for communication, especially in subjects like history and English literature. Beyond academics, I actively participate in school sports like hockey and lacrosse, aiming to try football next year. I love doing team sports because I enjoy playing with my friends and working hard for the same goal, and also because of the essential values behind it. Outside school, I enjoy spending time with friends and family. I also have a significant interest in movies and traveling around the world.

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Connor Mi from Colonel By Secondary School in Ottawa, Canada

An 11th-grade student, Connor is currently immersed in the dynamic environment of the English and French bilingual IB diploma program at Colonel By Secondary School in Ottawa, Canada. Connor has a deep fascination with human expression through means of literature and media from diverse cultures, which has driven him to be proficient in seven languages, enabling him to explore authentic press from different countries and become a translator for TEDx. He has cultivated musical talents since a young age, is skilled in playing the piano, flute, and drums, and has earned recognition with numerous awards, including two RCM regional gold medals. Connor has a profound commitment to community service. To support his peers, he founded iCare Youth, a Canada-wide youth organization that has received the Northern Lights Award from the Alberta government. In addition, he passionately contributes to environmental conservation programs.

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Jenny Bu from Rockridge Secondary School in Vancouver, Canada

My name is Jenny Bu, and I am a Grade 9 student at Rockridge Secondary School in Vancouver, Canada. In the realm of music, I have been playing the cello and drums for several years and enjoy singing, which led me to join our school choir and share my deep passion for musical expression. As a competitive badminton player, I have won many games and recently was honored with the Prestige Award for Athletics. Academics are another area where I shine, as I consistently perform strongly and excel, particularly in mathematics. With a keen interest in diverse cultures and languages, I am self-studying three world languages, hoping to understand the world more deeply.

I hold an executive position at iCare Youth, where I help develop programs and tutor students in math. Realizing the challenges many international students face, I co-founded a youth organization, Maple Bridge, which is dedicated to providing support and resources for them.

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Martin Jiachen Liu from Calgary, Canada

Hi! My name is Martin. I’m currently a Grade 11 student at Ernest Manning High School in Calgary, Canada, and I take great pride in my Chinese heritage. I strive to live by the values of optimism, kindness, and empathy, which shape my approach to life and my relationships with others. One of my biggest passions is badminton. The thrill of competition and the joy of teamwork inspires me to push my limits both on and off the court. I held the gyp club in my school with my tutor, Mrs McGillivray, and I hope we will become successful in our club.

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Xinran Liu (Tracy) from Lawrence Academy in Massachusetts

I am Tracy from Lawrence Academy in Massachusetts. I love diabolo (Chinese yoyo), debate, poem composition, and math. I enjoy working with others and contributing to the community. I run the diabolo yoyo club, which has 217 / 400 members at school, and successfully let more people know about Chinese culture.

Following a highly engaging discussion on “Gender Equality” on November 25, 2023, the Boston Global Youth Program (GYP) is excited to announce another significant event. On Saturday, July 13, 2024, at 9:00 PM (EST), which corresponds to 9:00 AM on Sunday, July 14 (Beijing time), Boston GYP will organize an Intercultural  Forum themed “Gender Equality and Cultural Background.”

This forum, like many of Boston GYP’s initiatives, is planned, organized, and hosted by students, ensuring an authentic and relatable platform for youth voices. The event will feature a diverse panel of student guests, including high school and college students from various cultural backgrounds. This forum’s roster of special guests is particularly impressive, showcasing a broader range of perspectives and experiences.

The forum will include students with backgrounds from the Middle East, particularly Iran, as well as students currently studying in Singapore and Taiwan. Additionally, the panel will feature students with European and Japanese cultural backgrounds. A notable and groundbreaking addition to this lineup is the inclusion of a student guest with transgender experience, who will share their unique perspective on gender equality.

The “Gender Equality and Cultural Background” forum is part of a collaborative series of events organized by the Boston GYP Humanitarian Club and the Intercultural Club. These clubs aim to foster understanding and dialogue on important social issues among youth from different cultural contexts.

Key Details of the Forum:

• Date and Time:
  • Saturday, July 13, 2024, at 9:00 PM (EST)
  • Sunday, July 14, 2024, at 9:00 AM (Beijing time)
• Theme: Gender Equality and Cultural Background
• Organizers: Boston GYP Humanitarian Club and Intercultural Club

Topic: 2024 GYP Intercultural – Students’ talk about Gender Equality
Time: Jul 13, 2024 09:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85097210702?pwd=X9dE2KTjOrAbFIxKrTPOhn41YlBtOB.1

Meeting ID: 850 9721 0702
Passcode: 370835

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Event Host: Tiffany Li, Webber Academy in Calgary, Canada

Tiffany is a Grade 11 student living in Calgary, Canada, who attends Webber Academy. She enjoys debate, dance, art, and music.  Tiffany has achieved first place in the 2021 Alberta Regionals, first place in the 2021 Alberta Provincials, first place in the 2021 Impact Debate Tournament, top 10 in the 2022 BP Nationals, and top 12 in the Harvard World Schools Tournament. Tiffany additionally enjoys volunteering and participating in numerous volunteer activities, including teaching others debate. In the past, she has hosted multiple debate camps, taught over 200 students, and taught debate for over 100 hours. 

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Event Panelist: Melika Mostafavi from Boston, USA

My name is Melika Mostafavi. I was born in Iran and came to the United States at a young age. I attended private schools until 

7th grade when I attended a public school. I enjoy drawing and video games. I also enjoy making keychains.

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Event Panelist: Leila Ohashi from Boston, USA

I’m Leila Ohashi, a rising junior at Boston Latin School. My cultural background includes both Chinese and Japanese culture. I have also participated in Girl Scouts, an organization that aims to empower young girls and fight for gender equality, for 8 years. Through my time at Girl Scouts and my own experiences as a Chinese-Japanese American, I have become increasingly familiar with gender issues and the fight for gender equality. I believe that allowing gender to dictate access to opportunities or treatment of individuals is an antiquated idea that needs to be pushed back against and fought.

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Event Panelist: Zoey Sugerman-Brozan from Boston, USA

Zoey Sugerman-Brozan is a 17-year-old trans woman currently working for GYP. As a trans woman, she has a unique perspective on gender equality, having gone through her childhood perceived as male, and then coming out as transgender as a teenager and experiencing the time after that being perceived as female. As someone interested in mechanical engineering (and going to study it at Rochester Institute of Technology in the fall), she also has the specific and often challenging experience of being a woman in a STEM field. Through these points of view, Zoey will share and compare her experiences with others and discuss overall gender equality.

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Event Panelist: Lily Zhou from Singapore 

Hi, I’m Lily Zhou, and I’m currently a ninth-grader pursuing my studies at Peicai Secondary School in Singapore. I’m passionate about playing basketball and delving into the fascinating realm of astronomy. As a student leader, I thrive in roles that involve teamwork and leadership that can contribute to our school community. I have a keen interest in math and physics, finding joy in unraveling the intricacies of these subjects and driving my curiosity about the world. Beyond academics, I am actively involved in charity work, such as running a charity bazaar and helping to deliver some essentials to the needy. Engaging in charitable activities is not only a way to give back to the community but also an opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of others. I believe in the ripple effect of kindness and the tangible benefits it brings to both individuals and the community at large.

Event Panelist: Megan Chang from Kaohsiung American School, Taiwan

Hi! My name is Megan Chang, and I’m in my sophomore year at Kaohsiung American School. I’m usually quite busy, but when I finally get my hands off work, I enjoy volunteering outside school and debating. I debated in WSC (World Scholars Cup) for quite some time and also spoke in favor of diplomacy in MUN (Model United Nations). Other times, I like to hang out with my friends, read books, watch the news (I know this hobby is old), and play badminton. I’m not shy about sharing my opinions and will always be happy to work with different people. I am really looking forward to being a member of the GYP team.

After months of diligent preparation, the highly anticipated 2024 GYP-HNPW online seminar is set to commence. Scheduled for May 3, from 14:00 to 15:30 CEST / 08:00 – 09:30 EDT, the event promises insightful discussions and valuable insights.

As of April 22, parents and students worldwide have responded enthusiastically. Participants from the United States, Canada, China, the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Austria, Brazil, Tanzania, and various other countries and regions have eagerly signed up, with registrations surpassing 50. Among them are numerous seasoned humanitarian practitioners who bring rich experience and perspectives to the table.

The seminar’s highlight, the “Engaging Youth in Humanitarian Fields: Perspectives and Practices” session, is a collaborative effort by the University Surge Support Group (USSG) and Boston-Global Youth Philanthropy. This session is a forum for diverse voices and experiences to contribute to the ongoing discourse surrounding youth involvement in humanitarian efforts.

Here are five major topics of our students’ presentations and honorable students panelists

“Girls4changes”: The Role of Youth Philanthropy
Presented by

Tiffany Li Calgary, Canada,

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Chloe Wang from Calgary, Canada

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Emma (Xinrou) Luan from Haidian Foreign Language Academy, Beijing, China

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“The Role of Student Organizations in Engaging Youth in the Humanitarian Field” Presented by

Boan Chen from Vancouver, Canada

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Martin Jiachen Liu from Calgary, Canada

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“Involving Youth in the Preservation of Indigenous Languages Through Education,” Presented by

Connor Mi from Colonel By Secondary School in Ottawa, Canada

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“Role of Local Governments and Policies in Engaging Youth in Humanitarian Fields” Presented by

Wilson (Anfeng) Xie from Concord, New Hampshire

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Steven Alexander Miall from Boston, Massachusetts, USA

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“Roots Revived: Youth in AAPI Cultural Conservation” Presented by

Caroline Song from Boston, Massachusetts, USA

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Lucy Yuxuan Zhang from Boston, Massachusetts, USA

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Overall, the seminar promises to be an enriching experience, offering valuable insights into how youth can contribute meaningfully to humanitarian endeavors across various domains.

Attention all aspiring humanitarians and changemakers! Are you eager to stay informed and engaged in the dynamic world of youth humanitarian efforts? Look no further! The USSG website is your gateway to the latest updates, opportunities, and connections in the field.

As the premier platform for next-generation humanitarians, USSG is dedicated to empowering young people like you to make a difference. Whether you’re passionate about environmental sustainability, social justice, or disaster relief, USSG provides the resources and community you need to amplify your impact.

Don’t miss out on the chance to participate in the upcoming Humanitarian Networks and Partnerships Weeks (HNPW) 2024, set to commence at the end of April. This event is a vital nexus for connecting young leaders with established figures in the humanitarian sector and fostering collaboration and innovation.

Register now to unlock a world of opportunities and stay connected with the forefront of youth humanitarian fields. Visit the USSG website at https://hnpw.nexthumanitarians.org/ and join us in shaping a brighter future for all. Together, we can create meaningful change and build a more compassionate world.

Vancouver, Canada — March 15, 2024 — Global Youth Philanthropy (GYP) proudly announces the newest addition to its esteemed network: H2Y, a dynamic non-profit organization based in Vancouver, Canada. The H2Y Students’ Club joins a global community committed to fostering philanthropic endeavours and empowering youth worldwide.

Named after the chemical formula for water, “H2O,” H2Y signifies a fresh start and new horizons for youth. The acronym expands to “Horizon Hope for Youth,” reflecting the organization’s dedication to offering hope and opportunities to young individuals facing adversity. With a mission to provide educational resources and support to those in need, H2Y focuses on fundraising initiatives and donating essential school supplies to underserved schools in Greater Vancouver and beyond.

We are thrilled to welcome H2Y Students’ Club into the Global Youth Philanthropy network.   Their commitment to empowering youth aligns perfectly with our mission to nurture the next generation of philanthropic leaders.  Together, we can make a meaningful impact on communities locally and globally.

H2Y Students’ Club seeks to expand its reach beyond local borders, extending its support to international communities in need. By joining GYP, the organization gains access to a diverse network of like-minded individuals and resources that will facilitate its philanthropic endeavours on a global scale.

Boston GYP is thrilled to host an enlightening online seminar session during the esteemed Humanitarian Network & Partnerships Week in May 2024. Our session, titled “How to Engage Youth in Humanitarian Fields,” aims to ignite insightful discussions and strategies to empower the next generation in humanitarian endeavors.

We extend our warm invitation to friends, students, parents, humanitarian practitioners, and researchers alike to join us in this pivotal event. As advocates for youth engagement, we are eager to explore innovative pathways and exchange valuable insights with all participants. Moreover, for students considering our programs in the future, we are pleased to offer enticing incentives as a token of our appreciation for your involvement.

Event Details: Date: May 3, 2024 Time:

• US EST: 8:00 AM to 9:30 AM
• Beijing Time: 8:00 PM to 9:30 PM

Registration Process: To secure your spot, please follow these simple steps:

1. Scan the QR Code provided in the poster below.
2. Fill in the participant’s information to complete your registration.

For any inquiries or assistance, feel free to reach out to us at info@globalyouthphilanthropy.org. We are here to ensure a seamless registration process and address any questions you may have.

Additionally, we encourage participants to register on the HNPW website to access a wealth of resources and information:

• Website: www.hnpw.org
• Direct Registration Link: HNPW Registration

Steps to Register:

1. Navigate to the HNPW website.
2. Click on “Event Programme” from the index.
3. Under HNPW 2024, select “Network.”
4. Scroll down and choose “USSG,” then click “Show Sessions.”
5. Find and select “How to Engage Youth in Humanitarian Fields: Perspectives and Practices.”
6. Click “Register” to confirm your attendance.

We look forward to your active participation and valuable contributions as we embark on this journey to empower youth in humanitarian endeavors. Together, let’s make a difference and inspire positive change on a global scale.

On the evening of February 2023 (EST), the Boston Global Youth Philanthropy took a momentous stride in its journey toward excellence as the student board members convened for their inaugural online meeting. This gathering marked a pivotal point in the transformation of the student leadership program, underscoring a commitment to fostering innovation, collaboration, and impactful initiatives.

Leading the charge was Lucy Zhang, a dedicated team leader from Boston, who spearheaded the introduction of the draft for the students’ board rules. Lucy’s comprehensive presentation provided the framework for the board’s future operations, and she encouraged active participation by inviting valuable feedback from the members. As a collective effort, the board aimed to create a set of guidelines that would not only govern their internal processes but also reflect the values and aspirations of the Boston Global Youth Philanthropy.

Tiffany Li, hailing from Canada, brought a global perspective to the meeting by briefing the members on GYP’s upcoming participation in the Humanitarian Network and Partnerships Week (HNPW) events scheduled for May. She also unveiled plans for a seminar titled “How to Engage Youth into Humanitarian Fields,” underscoring GYP’s commitment to empowering young minds to contribute meaningfully to humanitarian efforts on a global scale.

Molin Wang, representing California, shared the strides made by the GYP publishing club in crafting their E-book titled “Mosaic 2023.” Molin’s update covered the design, production, and publication aspects of the project, showcasing the board’s creative endeavors. Furthermore, Molin outlined GYP’s ambitious plan to fortify its international student club network throughout the year, demonstrating a commitment to expanding the organization’s reach and impact.

This momentous first board meeting was the result of meticulous preparation by the current board members, with Kaitlyn Wang from San Jose, California, playing a pivotal role in its orchestration as a GYP student advisory board member. The dedication and collaboration of the team were palpable, setting the stage for a year of transformative initiatives and global engagement.

As the meeting progressed, the Q&A session provided an opportunity for other board members to delve deeper into the presented initiatives. Thought-provoking questions were raised, reflecting the board’s collective commitment to ensuring transparency, accountability, and the success of the programs laid out for the year ahead. The interactive session fostered a spirit of collaboration and set a positive tone for the board’s ongoing efforts in shaping the future of Boston Global Youth Philanthropy.

The First round Winners of the “GYP Volunteer Award” from four countries- May 2023

Nine students were selected as the candidates for the second cohort of “GYP Volunteer Award.”

2024 Fall GYP Volunteer Awards Winners

Introducing the “GYP Volunteer Award”: A distinguished accolade for youth volunteers, officially registered and trademarked by GYP-Boston in Massachusetts, USA, in 2022. Our award selection and management system aligns with the standards set by the US Presidential Volunteer Service Award.

We are thrilled to announce that the inaugural batch of 12 exceptional students has been honored with the prestigious “GYP Volunteer Award” certificate in October 2023. The official celebration is slated for December 2023, marking a significant milestone in recognizing their outstanding contributions to the community.

Looking ahead, GYP-Boston is proud to unveil the selection of the second cohort of “GYP Volunteer Award” candidates. In keeping with our transparent process, we will publish candidate information on our website several months before the formal certificate distribution, which is scheduled for early 2024. Stay tuned as we continue to spotlight and celebrate the remarkable achievements of our dedicated youth volunteers.

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Shuhan Zhao from Beijing National Day School

Shuhan is a high school junior at Beijing National Day School. She is an idea generator, a global soul, and an explorer. She is actively involved in tutoring, charity activities, and the worldwide TEDx community. She is passionate about education and solving global issues such as education inequity. Besides being a massive fan of board role-playing games,
she finds joy in traveling, playing tennis, and theaters. She has a zest for life and is always ready to help others.

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Wilson(Anfeng) Xie from Concord, New Hampshire

Wilson is a sophomore at a high school in Concord, New Hampshire. He is dedicated and passionate about researching, writing, and sharing his perspectives and understanding with those around him. He is a proactive student in the Humanities and actively tries to benefit the environment through writing and in-person volunteering.

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Chloe Wang Ernest Manning High School in Calgary, Canada.

Hi! My name is Chloe Wang. I am currently a Grade 10 student at Ernest Manning High School in Calgary, Canada. I moved to Canada one year ago, and I’ve embraced the diverse and welcoming community that has become my second home. Optimism, kindness, and a warm heart define my approach to life and relationships. I believe in the power of positivity and the impact a simple act of kindness can have on those around us. Since a young age, I have found joy and self-expression through the art of dance. It’s not merely a hobby for me. It’s a passion that has been with me throughout my life, shaping my experiences and fostering a deep appreciation for movement and creativity. In addition, I play Chinese lute. To play this traditional instrument has not only connected me to my cultural roots but has also provided a unique and enriching dimension to my life. I am excited about the journey ahead in GYP, where I will continue to learn, grow, and contribute to the rich tapestry of experiences that shape who I am.

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Megan Chang from Kaohsiung American School, Taiwan

Hii! My name is Megan Chang, and I’m in my sophomore year at Kaohsiung American School. I’m usually quite busy, but when I finally get my hands off work, I enjoy participating in volunteer work outside school and debating. I debated in WSC (World Scholars Cup) for quite some time and also spoke in favor of diplomacy in MUN (Model United Nations). Other times, I like to hang out with my friends, read some books, watch some news (I know this hobby is old), and play badminton. I’m not shy about sharing my opinions and will always be happy to work with different people. I am really looking forward to being a member of the GYP team.

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Lily Zhou from Singapore

Hi, I’m Lily Zhou, and I’m currently a ninth-grader pursuing my studies at Peicai Secondary School in Singapore. I’m passionate about playing basketball and delving into the fascinating realm of astronomy. As a student leader, I thrive in roles that involve teamwork and leadership that can contribute to our school community. I have a keen interest in math and physics, finding joy in unraveling the intricacies of these subjects and driving my curiosity about the world. Beyond academics, I am actively involved in charity work, such as running a charity bazaar and helping to deliver some essentials to the needy. Engaging in charitable activities is not only a way to give back to the community but also an opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of others. I believe in the ripple effect of kindness and the tangible benefits it brings to both individuals and the community at large.

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Sixiao Wu (Nancy)at SHSBNU’s International Department in Beijing

Hello everyone,
My name is Nancy, and I am a 16-year-old student at SHSBNU’s International Department. I am also the president of our Synthetic Biology Club, leading our club in carrying out public welfare science popularization activities. One example is our heart disease education program, which reached out to high school and junior high school students, the public on social media, and even the elderly at nursing homes. Apart from club activities, I am passionate about nutrition and promote it as a personal initiative. Through various events and workshops, I share information and resources about healthy eating habits and balanced nutrition, hoping to empower my peers to better care for their bodies.

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Jun Wang (Jade) Beijing No.8 High School

My name is Jun Wang, you can also call me Jade, which is my English name. I’m a twelfth-grade student at Beijing No.8 High School. I am curious about many things and wish I could explore more of this amazing world. Music and art are two of my favorite subjects, and I want to major in Psychology and Statistics in the future. “Per aspera ad astra” is my motto, which means “Through difficulties to reach the stars” in English. I believe all the challenges I have encountered have been an integral part of my life, and they have made me who I am. I wish I could become a sober and kind person. Helping people around me and looking at the sincere smiles on their faces is one of the things I feel happiest about.

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Jasmine Wang from Beijing No. 4 High School International Campus.

Jasmine Wang is a grade eleven student who studies at Beijing No.4 High School International Campus. She is passionate about sociology and child education and is willing to speak out about the inequalities in education. She is the leader of the DaoXue Club, which is a volunteer-based organization that offers free teaching classes for blind students. Meanwhile, she is fond of photography and expects the photographs to become a realistic reflection of social problems, be worthy of careful consideration, and contribute to the solution of these problems.

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Alicia Wang from UWC Changshu, China

Hi, I am Alicia Wang from Shanghai, China, currently in Grade 10 and studying at UWC Changshu. As a person who is constantly involved in creative work in group projects, my interests range from drawing and video editing to what I am currently working on coding and playing the guitar. I have spent most of my childhood in Vancouver, Canada, and have been immersed in an international environment ever since. These experiences inspire me to seek new perspectives and explore possibilities actively. I am looking forward to participating in future GYP projects alongside other dedicated members.

The First round Winners of the “GYP Volunteer Award” from four countries

Product details

• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CMC8LX6F
• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Independently published (October 31, 2023)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 80 pages
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 979-8866021987
• Reading age ‏ : ‎ 11 – 18 years
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 5.8 ounces
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 7.44 x 0.19 x 9.69 inches

We are excited to announce the release of “The Lion King Gesar – A Hero’s Destiny,” a captivating exploration of the Tibetan Epic of King Gesar, authored by our very own student board member, Grace Cai.

From an early age, Grace Cai has been captivated by the legendary tale of Gesar, the superhuman warrior king of the Kingdom of Ling, who fearlessly battled demons and faced remarkable challenges. “The Lion King Gesar – A Hero’s Destiny” is the result of her unwavering passion and a deep-seated desire to share this inspiring epic with the world.

The Tibetan Epic of King Gesar is an ancient narrative that has enthralled generations with its rich tapestry of heroism, magic, and wisdom. Grace Cai’s book delves into this timeless story, offering readers a fresh perspective and a unique lens through which to experience the epic.

In “The Lion King Gesar – A Hero’s Destiny,” Grace Cai combines her love for storytelling and her cultural appreciation to bring the epic to life. The book is a journey into the heart of Tibet, where readers will be transported to the mythical Kingdom of Ling and witness the heroic feats of Gesar.

The book provides a deep dive into Gesar’s character, the challenges he faced, and the universal themes of good versus evil, courage, and destiny. Grace Cai’s storytelling is both engaging and thought-provoking, making this book a must-read for those interested in folklore, adventure, and the enduring power of myth.

As a student board member of Boston GYP, Grace Cai’s achievement reflects her commitment to community services, cultural heritage, and the arts. “The Lion King Gesar – A Hero’s Destiny” is not only a testament to her talent as a writer but also her dedication to sharing the beauty of Tibetan culture and storytelling with a broader audience. This book reflects her deep appreciation for the Tibetan Epic of King Gesar and her commitment to preserving and sharing its legacy.

This book is available for purchase in paperback and Kindle formats on Amazon. For more information, visit the Amazon page on The Lion King Gesar – A Hero’s Destiny Paperback.

There are a lot of cats in Iran. They’re just on the street, lounging about, doing what cats do.

            That wasn’t exactly the key takeaway of GYP’s Iranian intercultural seminar, but it certainly was an interesting fact that you wouldn’t find in any textbook. Like this, there were many other insights into Iranian culture that only a person who experienced and lived it could tell you.

            Global Youth Philanthropy has been hosting intercultural seminars for a couple of years now, exploring the traditions of countries all around the world to promote mutual understanding and collaboration. This July, we listened to Melika Mostafavi, a member of GYP and a rising junior at Boston Latin School in Massachusetts. She was born in Tehran, Iran, and is currently spending the summer there. While in Iran, she logged into the meeting and gave a detailed and engaging presentation.

Melika first told the story of how Iran became the country it is today, starting from the Achaemenid Empire to the Pahlavi Era, which ended in 1979. Although Iran’s history is long and varied, Melika condensed it down to the highlights of each of the ages while preserving all the interesting details.

            Melika then spoke about historical sites. However, she provided her own unique spin on it, including pictures that she herself had taken. Melika’s been to the Kakhe Saadbad museums, including the former residence of Reza Shah, as well as the Takhte Jamshid—the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid empire and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Isfahan Bazaar

            For those who are looking to visit the country, she’s also got experience with all the popular tourist sites. She’s been to the Borje Milad: the famous Milad tower in Iran and the first telecommunication tower. In addition, she recommends visiting the Parke Ab-o Atash, a beautiful park with water fountains, towers producing fire, and the Pole Tabiat—the largest pedestrian bridge in Tehran.

            Of course, a crucial aspect of any country’s culture is its food. Melika shares her favorite Iranian dishes, including Ashe Reshteh—a type of noodle soup—and Fesenjan—pomegranate paste on meat, often served on rice with walnuts as a garnish. Shirin Polo, also called wedding rice, is a sweet rice dish known for its versatility in its ingredients. But aside from dishes, Melika shares a unique insight into Iranian cuisine by demonstrating the difference in available ingredients. For instance, Iranian cuisine often uses rosebuds or rosewater, something uncommon in the US.

            And, of course, after spending her entire summer in Iran, Melika shares what she found to be the most prominent cultural differences. Weekends are on Thursday and Friday, as opposed to Saturday and Sunday; traffic lights have timers to show how much longer you need to wait; most malls are outside. A hallmark of Persian culture is the bazaar, an area filled with stores and shops, often family-owned small businesses. And, of course, who can forget the cats? Melika theorizes that these cats were allowed to prosper because an Islamic prophet once preferred them.

            Sure, you can learn about culture from a history textbook or a Wikipedia page, but it is only through listening to the experiences of an individual that can you get the full story of day-to-day life.

Sweet rice

[ Reported by Caroline Song in Boston]