As part of the Global Citizens program, Year 9 students recently participated in an inspiring incursion led by Joanna Tabone from Compassion. Joanna challenged students to consider what it truly means to be a global citizen, one who responds with empathy and compassion, and explored why these qualities are so essential in today’s world. She also provided valuable insights into Compassion’s work, highlighting the importance of justice, advocacy and meaningful action.
The Work of Compassion
Compassion is a global Christian child development organisation, founded in 1952, that works to release children from poverty through a holistic approach that supports their physical, emotional and educational needs. Through partnerships with more than 8,000 local churches across approximately 29 countries, Compassion delivers programs that provide access to education, healthcare, nutritious food and community support, empowering children to thrive and break the cycle of poverty.
Understanding Advocacy and Global Impact
We are very grateful to Joanna for sharing her expertise and experiences. She offered students a deeper understanding of how organisations such as Compassion undertake authentic and impactful advocacy, as well as the role of partnerships with local churches in communities around the world. Students were encouraged to recognise the strong connections between empathy, compassion, justice and action, and how these values can shape positive global change.
Turning Learning into Action
Building on this experience, Year 9 students will apply their learning within the Global Citizens program by exploring a range of project proposals currently supported by Compassion, developing a deeper understanding of key global issues. They will then work collaboratively to design and present a campaign pitch in support of one of these initiatives.
Each project addresses real-world challenges aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including Good Health and Wellbeing, Clean Water and Sanitation, Gender Equality, and Quality Education.
Developing Future Changemakers
The Global Citizens program forms part of Meriden’s Lateral Learning Program and is designed to foster critical and creative thinking, communication, collaboration and active citizenship. Through experiences such as this, students are encouraged to deepen their understanding of global issues and consider how they can contribute positively to their communities and the wider world.
