Global Circles Impact: Fall 2023

“Global Circles fosters a sense of unity and collaboration among participants. By working together on projects and sharing insights, we have created a supportive community that transcends geographical boundaries. The connections forged through this program have not only enhanced my learning experience but have also provided me with potential lifelong friendships with like-minded individuals.”

— Egyptian alumni, October round

Post-program Feedback

97% Believe Global Circles offered unique opportunities for making cultural connections

93% Report they would recommend Global Circles to friends and colleagues

92% Agree their personal and/or professional skills increased as a result of participating

“I love cultures, I worked overseas for a while with my family, and I missed the incredible joy of chatting with people who are radically different from me. I loved how quickly we realized we all had similar concerns about the usage of social media and its risks and benefits. It didn't matter our background. I also appreciated the variety of ages.”

— American alumni, November round

What Participants Gained

Majorities agree or strongly agree that participating in Global Circles significantly enhanced skills crucial to thrive in today’s world.

72% Increased confidence in their ability to make a difference

77% Improved cross-cultural communication skills

72% Increased interest in global events & cultural differences

“The best thing about Global Circles was the incredible opportunity it provided for cultural exchange and global connections. Through this program, I had the chance to interact with people from diverse backgrounds, engage in meaningful discussions, and gain a deeper understanding of different cultures, perspectives, and worldviews. It was a platform where boundaries were transcended, friendships were formed, and valuable insights were shared, ultimately enriching my global outlook and fostering a sense of global unity and collaboration.”

— Egyptian alumni, September round

An Overview of the Topics

    • Explored the societal implications of digital transformation, such as the role of technology in shaping social relationships, education, and the future of work.

    • Examined the impact of technology on identities and social interactions and the need to understand the key technologies behind digital advancements.

    • Raised important questions about social relationships, privacy, security, equity, and the ethical use of technology, particularly in a context of imbalance between the global North and global South.

    Questions from the participants:

    • Has technology set us back in any way?

    • How do you imagine your city in 2050? What technologies will there be?

    • For those that have traveled outside of your home country, what was the biggest technological culture shock?

    • Explored the transformative potential of AI in driving productivity and growth - as well as the risks related to algorithmic bias in decision-making and increased inequalities and digital divides.

    • Addressed how the development of AI transmits between global regions and power structures and will delve into the relationship between the Global North and South in developing AI, from its design to its applications.

    • Considered how advances in AI have influenced our understanding of what it means to be human - especially in terms of creativity and consciousness.

    Questions from the participants:

    • What kind of AI do you think the world is missing?

    • What is the intended legacy of the technology being developed?

    • Focused on the relationship between online media use and its impact on mental health. Online interactive media can serve as a platform for mental health awareness, provide resources, and foster communities where youth can connect. However, it can also create risks with excessive media use, cyberbullying, social comparison, and exposure to harmful content which can contribute to stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues.

    • Explored how various forms of media, such as social media platforms, video games, mobile apps, online sites, and much more can influence user wellbeing.

    • Used the experiences of participants in different context to find solutions to create a smarter and more balanced approach to media consumption.

    Questions from the participants:

    • In what ways do you believe that the design and features of online platforms contributes to either positive or negative impacts on mental health?

    • How has online media helped promote your country’s culture and traditions or contributed to misunderstandings?

    • How can we use social media to enhance genuine self-esteem?

“I learned a lot from participating in Global Circles, but the best part is that I now have a lot of information about technologies, which was our topic. I listened directly to the people who are at the center of this work. I learned how to engage with a team and have a dialogue by giving them space to talk, listening to them with respect, and, at the same time, giving myself time to speak freely.”

— Libyan alumni, September round

Are you ready to discuss topics like these and join the Global Circles community?