"Only a life lived for others is a life worthwhile." - Albert Einstein
www.bgiftedsl.tumblr.com
Hello Everyone,
My name is Andrew Benson Greene and I am founder of B-Gifted Foundation of Sierra Leone. www.b-gifted.org
I endorse one of our new initiatives called the 'Login Promise Project'. The Login Promise Project is part of a wider campaign of 'Second Chances' to bring innovative education to all the children of Sierra Leone by 2050.
This is my life's purpose and I welcome you to join me as I embark upon this journey to make a difference in the lives of every child in Sierra Leone.
I want to leave an outstanding legacy of innovative education and learning possibilities for children and through the vantage pathways of my experiences and successes.
I believe that through innovative education, I can bring light into darkness and through my God-given gift, I shall liberate children from the trappings of poverty and infuse innovative education into their hearts and minds to help these children huddle pass these challenges and be prepared for the evergrowing transformation that is made possible through new forms of educational technologies.
I endorse this project because I feel passionate about innovative education and the transformation it brings.
For so many glorious years, I have been an integral part of this transformational process and have met millions of people both in person and virtually as I walked the path to reaching my goals. Having also met so many young people in Sierra Leone and around the world, with eyes glittering with hopes and expectations, I think together with you all, I can do everything I can to make my life's purpose a reality by investing in the future of innovative education.
To support this initiative simple email me for more details after this enduring and pleasant trip with me. You will find details of how you can reach me at the end of this 15 years journey in bringing innovative education and peace to the shores of Sierra Leone and around the world. I kindly leave you with one of my memorable quotes.
“The world is before you, and you need not take it or leave it as it was when you came in.”
― James Baldwin
― James Baldwin
Why am I doing it?
This poem is an inspiration for me to 'hold high the touch'...
HOLD HIGH THE TORCH
Hold high the torch!
You did not light its glow -
'Twas given you by other hands, you know.
'Tis yours to keep it burning bright,
Yours to pass on when you no more need light;
You did not light its glow -
'Twas given you by other hands, you know.
'Tis yours to keep it burning bright,
Yours to pass on when you no more need light;
For there are other feet that we must guide,
And other forms go marching by our side;
Their eyes are watching every smile and tear
And efforts which we think are not worthwhile,
Are sometimes just the very helps they need,
Actions to which their souls would give most heed;
And other forms go marching by our side;
Their eyes are watching every smile and tear
And efforts which we think are not worthwhile,
Are sometimes just the very helps they need,
Actions to which their souls would give most heed;
So that in turn they'll hold it high and say,
"I watched someone else carry it this way."
If brighter paths should beckon you to choose,
Would your small gain compare with all you'd lose?
"I watched someone else carry it this way."
If brighter paths should beckon you to choose,
Would your small gain compare with all you'd lose?
Hold high the torch!
You did not light its glow -
'Twas given you by other hands, you know.
You did not light its glow -
'Twas given you by other hands, you know.
I think it started down its pathway bright,
The day the Maker said, "Let there be light."
And He once said, who hung on Calvary's tree -
"Ye are the light of the world.
Go! Shine - for me."
The day the Maker said, "Let there be light."
And He once said, who hung on Calvary's tree -
"Ye are the light of the world.
Go! Shine - for me."
ESHIP Summit - Kaufman Foundation. Entrepreneurs in Kansas City. MO 2019
Governors Grant Training Conference Maryland. 2018
4th annual NEXUS USA Summit which was convened on January 31 – February 2, 2018, in Washington, DC.
Pioneer Baltimore - Innovators 2017 - Graduation
Hive Global Leaders Fellows 2015 - San Francisco
I am a Hiver! I am not alone. Hive Global Leaders Fellows 2015. San Francisco. Bernal Heights. As Ali Wayne, co-hiver fellow puts it: "This picture captures the spirit of the moment".
Adam S. Poswolsky and Andrew Benson Greene at the Hive Global Fellows found time to share a peace to the world.
Bernal Heights San Francisco with Ryan Allis. Hive Global Leaders Fellows 2015.
San Francisco.
Immersive workshops and brainstorming at Hive Global Leaders January 2015
Hivers 2015! Challenging heights we must conquer as entrepreneurs. This is also symbolized by the hike up the mountain view in San Francisco
Hive Fellow 2015- don't stop believing...
Peace meetings in Maryland November 2014, with co-veteran Youth Leader Maxwell Adew.
Charles F. Harper, Director of Outreach at
The MY HERO Project in the summer of 2002 has this to say when Andrew was selected as My Hero in the My Hero Project.
The MY HERO Project in the summer of 2002 has this to say when Andrew was selected as My Hero in the My Hero Project.
"Now, if there was ever anyone who had reason to be resentful, despairing, and bitter, it is Andrew. Raised in a country that was divided by the violence of civil war, where brother fought against brother and sister against sister, and children were recruited to do horrific acts of violence for the self-interests of greedy leaders, he watched as an entire international community ignored the pains and struggles of his fellow countrymen as if they were not even a blip on the international radar screen.
He could easily have chosen the path of blaming others for the tragic circumstances of his country and the impossibilities of educating himself and the young people around him. He could have wallowed in self-pity, never moving a muscle to rebuild a destitute country. He could have clung to the status quo of survival for survival's sake. Instead, Andrew chose the road less traveled.
When you meet Andrew you get to know someone who is at peace with himself and the world. There is a serenity in his presence. And the serenity comes from Andrew having the courage and the faith to nurture the gifts and talents he has as an educator and to share those talents and gifts with all who come within the universe of his indomitable spirit. That serene smile comes from not believing but knowing that one step, one day at a time, his children's children will experience the impossible possibility of peace, justice and freedom from the scars of war."
Peace meetings with Colleague and long time friend at B-Gifted Foundation. Cheek by Jowl with Maxwell Adew. Maryland USA 2014
Build Peace Fellow at the MIT Media Lab Build Peace through Technology Conference in Boston, USA April 2014
Build Peace Fellows at the MIT Media Lab Build Peace through Technology Conference in Boston, USA April 2014
Build Peace Fellows at the MIT Media Lab Build Peace through Technology Conference in Boston, USA April 2014
Build Peace Fellows at the MIT Media Lab Build Peace through Technology Conference in Boston, USA April 2014
At the ITU Telecom World 2012 in Dubai (October 14th to 18th)
B-Gifted Founder Andrew Greene has a long history of leadership and innovation in ICT that gives hope and promise to thousands of young people in post-conflict Sierra Leone. His dedication to promoting peace and human rights via ICT has won him a number of prestigious International Awards. In 2011, Greene won the prestigious ITU Telecom World Digital Innovation Fellowship at the inaugural open competition with his unique ICT initiative 'Digital Hope'. Supported by the National Telecommunication Commission in Sierra Leone (NATCOM), individuals and friends, Greene brought presentation materials that helped him to showcase his award winning initiative. At the ITU Telecom World 2012 in Dubai (October 14th to 18th, Greene brought his interdisciplinary research experience in using ICT, and a strong edge to use ICT for peace, E-Development, and education.
Greene joined other non-profit and business leaders around the world in a five days of debate in Dubai, from 14 - 18 October, exploring the radical transformation of the ICT industry and the implications for policy, regulation and competitive strategy.
Andrew at ITU Young Digital Innovators Winners Workshop at the ITU Telecom World 2012 in Dubai (October 14th to 18th)
Five days of debate in Dubai, from 14 - 18 October, explored the radical transformation of the ICT industry and the implications for policy, regulation and competitive strategy.
This transformation is driven by game changers, the trends and technologies revolutionizing the industry and the world we live in.The Young Innovators Competition at ITU Telecom World 2012 offers social entrepreneurs aged 18-25 years old the opportunity to shine a global ICT spotlight on their innovative ideas and digital creativity.
Nearly 400 young entrepreneurs from 77 countries around the world submitted innovative ICT-based early concepts or mature projects - demonstrating how fresh thinking and talent for technology can provide real-world solutions to real-world problems and change the future for the better.
This transformation is driven by game changers, the trends and technologies revolutionizing the industry and the world we live in.The Young Innovators Competition at ITU Telecom World 2012 offers social entrepreneurs aged 18-25 years old the opportunity to shine a global ICT spotlight on their innovative ideas and digital creativity.
Nearly 400 young entrepreneurs from 77 countries around the world submitted innovative ICT-based early concepts or mature projects - demonstrating how fresh thinking and talent for technology can provide real-world solutions to real-world problems and change the future for the better.
B-Gifted Founder Andrew Greene met with CEO's from diverse companies at the ITU Telecom World in Dubai 2012
Andrew Benson Greene at the ITU Telecom World 2012 in Dubai (October 14th to 18th) Dubai and the GITEX Forum Dubai
Andrew with other distinguised delegates at the ITU Telecom World 2012 in Dubai (October 14th to 18th.
ITU Telecom World 2012 Dubai with CEO's from Global Telecom
Congratulations to B-Gifted Founder and CEO Andrew Benson Greene from
Sierra Leone and the galaxy of ITU Fellows 2011. Andrew was featured on the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Geneva as one of the shortlisted competitors from over 155 entries. Through an International Open Call for ideas organized by the ITU, the founder’s new and unique initiative for the use of telecommunication
technology caught the attention of the international judges.
Sierra Leone and the galaxy of ITU Fellows 2011. Andrew was featured on the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Geneva as one of the shortlisted competitors from over 155 entries. Through an International Open Call for ideas organized by the ITU, the founder’s new and unique initiative for the use of telecommunication
technology caught the attention of the international judges.
ITU Telecom World 2011 winners in Geneva.. Andrew has a very long history of leadership and innovation in ICT that gives hope and promise to thousands of young people in Sierra Leone and around the world. His dedication to promoting peace and human rights via ICT has won him an array of prestigious International Awards
Andrew Greene was one of the young innovators and winners at ITU Telecom World 2011 Geneva, Switzerland
Andrew Pitching his Innovative Project (Digital Hope) to the the international judges and audience at the ITU Telecom World 2011 in Geneva, Switzerland.
Andrew Pitching his Innovative Project (Digital Hope) to the the international judges and audience at the ITU Telecom World 2011 in Geneva, Switzerland.
Andrew is one of the Young Digital Innovation winners at the ITU Telecom Awards for his project 'Digital Hope'. B-Gifted Foundation was considered as the 'One of the best digital talents at Telecom 11. (Geneva Switzerland 2011)
Andrew and other winners Young Digital Innovation Fellows at the ITU Telecom World 2011 in Geneva, Switzerland.
Andrew and the other two winners Jian Min Sim from Singapore, Studying in Oxford University whose projects ‘Mobile Volunteers’ hopes to help volunteers of NGO’s to get up to date information through their mobile appliances when they get in the field, and Hajra Bibi from Showmemobi in South Africa which allows users to take their content, produce their content, and go via a mobile application which is free to the end user, so that they can share their South African Stories, in a historically disadvantage society at the ITU Telecom World 2011 in Geneva, Switzerland.
Andrew and other two winners Dale Zak of One Story and Trishan de Lanerolle at the ITU Telecom World 2011 in Geneva, Switzerland.
B-Gifted Founder Andrew And Dr Hamadoun I. Touré, former Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) at the ITU Telecom World 2011 Geneva
Mr Carlos Slim Helú, Chairman of Grupo Carso and President of the Carlos Slim Foundation with ITU Telecom World Young Digital Innovators in Geneva Switzerland. Carlos Slim Helú, was very pleased to meet all the Young Digital Innovation Winners and had a great chat with the young innovators which was inspiring to all
B-Gifted Founder Andrew Benson Greene with Carlos Slim Helú, Chairman of Grupo Carso and President of the Carlos Slim Foundation
Andrew says about WISE after attending two Summits. "This is my second call at the WISE (World Innovation Summit on Education), an initiative of the Qatar Foundation.. Every year, I have observed, WISE becomes better and better than the previous year, and creates the platform that opens dialogue among those who value and hold premium Innovative Education."November 2011
B-Gifted Foudner Andrew Greene at WISE (World Innovation Summit on Education), an initiative of the Qatar Foundation. Qatar Convention Centre Doha. November 2011
The symbolic web at WISE. B-Gifted Founder Andrew Greene at WISE (World Innovation Summit on Education), an initiative of the Qatar Foundation. Qatar Convention Centre Doha. November 2011
Delegates at the (World Innovation Summit on Education), an initiative of the Qatar Foundation. Qatar Convention Centre Doha. November 2011
Delegates at WISE (World Innovation Summit on Education), an initiative of the Qatar Foundation. Qatar Convention Centre Doha. November 2011
Andrew at the WISE Summit. World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE) in Doha, Qatar, from 7 to 9 December 2010. Andrew was summoned to attend, due to his 'wide-ranging experience and insight that was an invaluable asset in defining the vision of education that WISE and its participants wish to bring to the world'
B-Gifted Founder at WISE 2010
B-Gifted Founder at WISE 2010
B-Gifted Founder at WISE 2010
B-Gifted Founder at WISE 2010
B-Gifted Founder at WISE 2010
On March 29, 2007, at Kenyon College, Gambier, Ohio, USA, Founder Andrew Greene spoke and gave several campus-wide lecture series entitled "Children of the Crossfire" at the Kenyon College in Gambier, Ohio USA.
On March 29, 2007, at Kenyon College, Gambier, Ohio, USA, Andrew Greene spoke and gave several campus-wide lecture series entitled "Children of the Crossfire" at the Kenyon College in Gambier, Ohio USA. Andrew Greene also spoke on the issue of child soldiers at nearby Nazarene University in Mount Vermon, Ohio.
Andrew Greene also spoke on the issue of child soldiers at nearby Nazarene University in Mount Vermon, Ohio. March 2007
Andrew Benson Greene, was a Key player at the EWB conference in 2007. He presented the paper on 'Overcoming Poverty Through the Use of Digital Educational Media in Post-Conflict Sierra Leone'. Facilitator: Amy Smith ...
The Global Student Organizing Committee would like to sincerely thank everyone who participated in Education Without Borders 2007. It was a tremendous honour, and an inspiration, to have been part of this very special event with more than 1,000 of you from 108 countries.
The Global Student Organizing Committee would like to sincerely thank everyone who participated in Education Without Borders 2007. It was a tremendous honour, and an inspiration, to have been part of this very special event with more than 1,000 of you from 108 countries.
Andrew Benson Greene, was a Key player at the EWB conference in 2007
Andrew Benson Greene, was a Key player at the EWB conference in 2007
Andrew Benson Greene, was a Key player at the EWB conference in 2007. Andrew Testing the One Laptop Per Chiild computers exhibited at the OLPH for transforming education of children and youth in Sierra Leone
Andrew Benson Greene, was a Key player at the EWB conference in 2007. Andrew and other young leaders at EWB 2007 Abu Dhabi
Andrew Benson Green at EWB conference in 2007
July 20-31st, 2006. Grover Cleveland High School, Los Angeles, CA Irmas International Youth Media Summit .
Andrew participated in the Irmas Int'l Youth Media Summit in Reseda, CA, just north of Los Angeles. During the summit, teenagers from 26 countries worked together to do something about the seven issues that they believe most impact their future: Racism, Poverty, Violence, Health, Environment, Women's Rights and Youth Empowerment. They discussed and found ways to inspire others in their generation to shape the future through media and action. During the 10 day summit, the teen delegates: Worked with dynamic leaders who are making a difference in non-profits and organizations around the world Developed resolutions of action to present to the United Nations and their own governments Created powerful public service announcements with the help of Hollywood filmmakers and celebrities Learned how to organize international teen media exchange projects and find partners from other countries Were part of the IIYMS one hour television special. Celebrated a united world with art, music, film, dance and food from other cultures
Andrew and Mary Robinson former Prime Minister of Ireland at the 1st World Ethics Forum Conference in Oxford UK April 2006.
B-Gifted Founder and other delegates at the 1st joint World Ethics Forum Conference.
'Africa Now Untold Stories conference hosted by the Canadian International Development Agency, (CIDA) at Carlton University in Ottawa 2005. Andrew with Allan Rock who was Canada's Permanent Representative to the UN
Andrew and Jennifer Corriero, Co-founder and Executive Director, TakingITGlobal again met at the Africa-Now Untold Stories conference.
Andrew at the 'Africa Now Untold Stories', with Young Leaders and Representatives from Africa and Canada. It was supported by CIDA in 2005
Andrew was a Guest Speaker at the International Cooperation Days ICD in Ottawa, Canada - Nov 2004. International Cooperation Days (ICD) is hosted by Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA). This conference takes place annually to "discuss the prospects for the world's future in the context of the global roadmap for change." The group focuses on the United Nations Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and hosts participants from organizations around the world.
Andrew Benson Greene described the work of his organization he founded in Sierra Leone to bring information technology to its young people. Poverty is more than a lack of food—it can also be considered a lack of opportunity to participate, he said. Access to computer technology is restricted for many of the world’s youth because poorer nations do not have the resources to become involved in such technology. Through the use of donated, recycled computers, Greene’s organization helps former child soldiers re-integrate into society, allowing them to share their experiences, with technology as a type of “war therapy.” Internet access provides opportunities for youth in Sierra Leone to broaden horizons, and engage in meaningful dialogue with youth “beyond the divide,” leading to greater tolerance and understanding, Greene said. However, funding was a major challenge. Greene outlined the support he has received and the projects in which his organization is involved. Youth need tools that will aid them in life, he said.
Young Leaders, Speakers and Delegates at the International Cooperation Days (ICD) is hosted by Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA). November 2004
Matthew Pearce, former President and CEO, Canada World Youth, who acted as moderator, provided a brief summary the morning before the workshop on “What are Youth Doing to Achieve the MDGs?
Matthew was briefing Guest Speakers: Andrew Benson Greene, Jennifer Corriero (Co-Founder at TIG) and Alexandre Trudeau, (son of the late Right Honourable Pierre Elliott Trudeau) and documentary filmmaker and freelance journalist before the speeches at International Cooperation Days (ICD) hosted by Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA).
Andrew Benson Greene and Nick Moraitis at International Coorporation Days Hosted by CIDA in Ottawa 2004
Andrew with other young Leaders at International Cooperation Days (ICD) hosted by Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA). November 2004
Andrew became a Jeanne Sauve Scholar at McGill University in Montreal Canada. The Sauve Scholarship was named in honour of Jeanne Sauve, the first woman named Governor General of Canada.
Jeanne Sauve Scholars visit to the House of Parliament in Ottawa, Canada 2005
Andrew became a Jeanne Sauve Scholar at McGill University in Montreal Canada in 2005. The Sauve Scholarship was named in honour of Jeanne Sauve, the first woman named Governor General of Canada
"A year of solid personal growth"
Andrew became a Jeanne Sauve Scholar at McGill University in Montreal Canada. The Sauve Scholarship was named in honour of Jeanne Sauve, the first woman named Governor General of Canada 2004/5
Andrew became a Jeanne Sauve Scholar at McGill University in Montreal Canada. The Sauve Scholarship was named in honour of Jeanne Sauve, the first woman named Governor General of Canada 2004/5. Andrew is seen here with the son of the first woman named Governor General of Canada during the Scholars Program and outreach in Ottawa.
Jeanne Sauve Scholars 2004/5.
Jeanne Sauve Scholars 2004/5. Jeanne Sauve (Portrait above) was the first woman named Governor General of Canada
Jeanne Sauve Scholars visit to the House of Senate in Washington DC 2005. The Sauve dynamic Circle.
Jeanne Sauve Scholars (Ali Khan and Andrew) with Founding Director Jim Wright, Montreal Canada 2005.
Jeanne Sauve Scholars
Adam Daifallah, Shivvy Arora Jervis and Andrew Benson Greene at the Sauve House in Montreal 2004
Jim Wright Founding Director of the Sauve Scholars Foundation reads aloud the merits and rewards of Scholar Andrew Benson Greene's participation at the Sauve Scholars Program.
Andrew and his long-term friend Leigh Anne Shaw previously, L.A Sippel, met in DC in 2005. Leigh Anne flew from San Francisco to meet his dear friend Andrew for the very first time in over a decade of sustained communication and friendship which started by snail mail. The friendship budded in 1994 when Andrew was in his intermediate year of studies at Fourah Bay College. Andrew and many young students during those years developed an interest as avid radio listeners to catch up with the latest news from the BBC not just about the war that was raging, but news and events from other countries as well as to tune in to many of BBC's entertaining programs.
As the war dragged on and radio was one of the few global outlet for news and entertainment, Andrew capitalized on that news feed and found a place to share his writing skills and creativity. He was glued to many BBC radio programs including Dave Lee Travis' Pop Show 'A Jolly Good Show' aired mostly in the weekends. In 1994 Andrew wrote to become a Popular Global Pal shortened for 'Pop Pal' . He tried his hand in writing and sent his letter via the Post office to Dave Lee Travis. Dave received it and aired it on radio and to the world. In an excerpt of that letter, Andrew revealed:
"I am a slim, tall creative guy who is quite fortunate to be among those whose star is Pisces. Ironically however, I am too aquaphobic. I am looking forward to another successful college year, next semester. My hobbies include painting and drawing, writing poetry, creative writing in general, and I have a reputation for playing so many board games . I look forward to making friends with people from all ages from all over the world, all over".
Andrew received piles and piles of mails via post from friends who reacted to his call for friendship. Among these friends were Leigh Anne Sippel, John Brown of Spain, Yeyet Solita Villa from Manila in Philippines. The long years of correspondence had began which led to sustained online professional correspondence that was vital to propel his work on collaborative global education projects. Andrew was able to also write for several other BBC slots whilst a student which created opportunities to share his views around the world about the situation of war, the hopes for peace,and freedom of movement when democracy returns. Leigh Anne was among the few in the US who had first-hand knowledge and detailed descriptions of the war in Sierra Leone as seen through the eyes of Andrew and his experiences as he wrote vividly during those challenging years. She was a blessing to Andrew, sending the much-needed books for his English and Law causes and later on became a life-long supportive friend in myriad moral and resourceful ways. When they met in DC, Andrew was with a team of scholars from Jeanne Sauve and he buoyed and regaled the group and its founding Director of this incredible story of friendship. The reactions from Sauve Scholars were one of awe at his story and Leigh Anne was able to corroborate Andrew's story with photos and mails amidst emotional speeches and sobs. The friendship transcended many heart-throbbing years in which Leigh Anne patiently waited for mails when the war intensified, to Andrew vanquishing with his family to a life of a refugee in Guinea, to Leigh Anne's many golden deeds of care, hope, reassurance and compassionate moral show and financial rescues. Later when in 2008, Andrew visited Leigh Anne, her parents and husband John in Palo Alto as he prepared for his speech in California, it was another moment of emotional reflections and sighs of relief.
As a Jeanne Sauve Scholar in 2004/5 Andrew had several radio and TV interviews in Canada including this one. An interview with Tele-Quebec Canada - POINTS CHAUDS - ENFANTS SOLDATS
Teaching Peace at the WH Day School in Bradford Ontario, Canada 2004. Andrew was invited by the Principal and Staff of WH Day School, Bradford Ontario Canada to teach innovative peace building methods to kids at the school.
The WH Day School Newsletter of November 12th 2004 reads: "All of our students had the opportunity to and hear about Andrew Greene's work in empowering the youth in his country to live in peace. Andrew has shared messages from his students with ours about interest and customs. He was able to Speak at our Remembrance Day Assembly. As a Sauve Scholar at McGill University he has the opportunity to meet with people in Canadian Government Departments, private business and other support agency from around the world that are trying to promote peace. He is one of twelve people from different countries that were granted the scholarship because of the humanitarian work that they do in their countries. We wish Andrew Well in his studies and his work to promote peace in his country and throughout the world."
Andrew played a significant role at the World Bank Conference 'Building a culture of peace and non-violence for the children of the world' that was held in Washington DC in March 2005. He and Sarika Jain including staff at the World Bank were committed to promoting peace
Andrew Benson Greene Founder and CEO of B-Gifted Foundation was again summoned to participate at the Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE) conference as Guest Speaker. The Welcoming Remarks was given by Dr. Robert Turner, Chair of the Board
Founder Andrew Benson Greene Guest Speaker at the 2004 CBIE Conference
Founder Andrew Benson Greene and Hon. Flora McDonald at the 2004 Conference in Toronto Canada -'Leaders in Action for Education Conference organized by the Peel District School Board Toronto
The conference theme was ' International Development: A Whole New World'. Mr. Andrew Benson Greene, was a speaker along side Representatives from Canada, Europe and Africa explore changes in donor agency policy. Other prominet speakers included Mr. David Moloney, Vice President, Policy Branch
Canadian International Development Agency, Mr. Lennart Ståhle, Head of the University Chancellor's Office National Agency for HIGHER EDUCATION , Sweden, Mr. Pieter van Dijk, Director Netherlands Organization for International Cooperation in Higher Education and the Keynote address was by Dr. Sima Samar Afghanistan who addressed the issue: Achieving democracy and respect for human rights.
Dr. Sima Samar was in Canada in 2002 to receive the John Humphrey Award when she learned of her appointment as Minister for Women's Affairs in the newly formed government of her country
Canadian International Development Agency, Mr. Lennart Ståhle, Head of the University Chancellor's Office National Agency for HIGHER EDUCATION , Sweden, Mr. Pieter van Dijk, Director Netherlands Organization for International Cooperation in Higher Education and the Keynote address was by Dr. Sima Samar Afghanistan who addressed the issue: Achieving democracy and respect for human rights.
Dr. Sima Samar was in Canada in 2002 to receive the John Humphrey Award when she learned of her appointment as Minister for Women's Affairs in the newly formed government of her country
Founder Andrew Benson Greene and Hon. Flora McDonald at the 2004 Conference hosted by the CBIE.
Andrew Benson Greene was again summoned as a Guest Speaker at The 36th (IIIVI) annual The Hague International Model UN Conference (THIMUN). THIMUN exists "to uphold the ideals of the United Nations Among The Young". The initiative involves youth in making the United Nations "effective and responsive to the needs of the people worldwide." - KOFI ANAN, SECRETARY GENERAL OF THE U.N.
On January 28th, 2004, Andrew Benson Greene, Jr. had the honor to be summoned as a Guest Speaker to the 36th session of The Hague International Model UN by the THIMUN Foundation. The overall theme of the THIMUN conference this year was ‘Information, A Power for Change.' Greene spoke amongst several renowned speakers including Lucie de Lophem of UNHCR, The Hague. His speech was entitled ‘The Question of the Promotion and Protection of The Rights of Children’, with particular focus on children in areas of armed conflicts.
Andrew Greene on the importance of THIMUN:"When I first heard several years ago about The Hague International Model United Nations (THIMUN), I was not quite convinced of the impact such a simulation could make to the UN and humanity as a whole. My thoughts were that merely having young people brainstorm issues of the UN at such a conference, when decisions at the UN are made by their seniors, rendered the exercise ludicrous. But my perceptions have since changed as I realized that THIMUN delegates were youth who could do more than merely brainstorm, but who also have the verve to put their thoughts into concrete action upon returning to their respective countries. More often than not, the resolutions taken at THIMUN are constructive and presented in the form of an action paper that can be unitized by UN organizations"
Andrew Benson Greene, Sylvanus Murray and Nick Moraitis In December 2003.
At a remarkable young age, the UN summoned Andrew Benson Greene and other young leaders in ICT. Andrew was invited as a panelist to share his inspirational work and vision of creating digital opportunities for youth in Africa and beyond at the 1st World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) in Geneva Switzerland (Palexpo Exhibition Area).
1st World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) in Geneva Switzerland (Palexpo Exhibition Area). Andrew Benson Grenee B-Gifted Founder, Bill Yotive (UN Cyber School Bus) and Sylvester Murray of the UN and TIG
Greene (Left) shaking hands with Louise Arbour when she was Canadian Justice Minister at the 1st Africa Canada Leadership Symposium.
Louise Arbour is the former UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, a former justice of the Supreme Court of Canada and a former Chief Prosecutor of the International Criminal Tribunals for the former Yugoslavia and Rwanda. She is slated to become the next president and CEO of the International Crisis Group
Andrew was selected to Participate at the Nova Scotia, Canada - 2003 Africa-Canada Youth Symposium for Leadership in Development event hosted at St. Francis Xavier University
The Coady International Institute hosted the Africa-Canada Youth Symposium for Leadership in Development from July 22-27, 2003. The Youth Symposium, an integral part of St. FX's 150th anniversary celebrations, provided the opportunity for young men and women from Canada and Africa to develop their capacities through skill building and leadership, exchange ideas on youth strategies for community development, and create an international network of young leaders committed to creating a just society. The Symposium brought 70 African and Canadian youth leaders to the StFX campus to discuss and develop effective, youth-friendly strategies for some of the critical issues facing youth throughout the world - issues like HIV/AIDS, the environment, peacebuilding, and economic development.
The Coady International Institute hosted the Africa-Canada Youth Symposium for Leadership in Development from July 22-27, 2003. The Youth Symposium, an integral part of St. FX's 150th anniversary celebrations, provided the opportunity for young men and women from Canada and Africa to develop their capacities through skill building and leadership, exchange ideas on youth strategies for community development, and create an international network of young leaders committed to creating a just society. The Symposium brought 70 African and Canadian youth leaders to the StFX campus to discuss and develop effective, youth-friendly strategies for some of the critical issues facing youth throughout the world - issues like HIV/AIDS, the environment, peacebuilding, and economic development.
Here is an excerpt of what Andrew recounts from his Experiences:
“My selection to the 1st Africa Canada Youth Symposium for Leadership in Development has all been for me like facing history in more concrete ways. Time and place was more appropriate for hosting such a symposium on Africa Canada collaboration.
There in Nova Scotia, my thought was engulfed in the gloom part of history, when my ancestors, the Black Africans, were carted away to America during the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade, and the laborious travels of those slaves up the underground railroad to Detroit and on to Ontario, and the black Loyalist who arrived in Nova Scotia following the American War of Independence. My thought could not cease to reflect on how the 1,196 of those black loyalist, left Halifax on that chilly January in 1792, heading for Sierra Leone. This is how history is often written and now, as I now look back at the map of the world as it turns into the circular ruins of history, I was nudged to the realization that I have been summoned to Nova Scotia to share my inspirational story of working and volunteering with the young victims of war in Sierra Leone and in raising awareness of the role conflict diamonds played in fanning the flames of Sierra Leone’s brutal decade long civil war”.
Andrew Participated at the Nova Scotia, Canada - 2003 1st Africa-Canada Youth Symposium for Leadership in Development event hosted at St. Francis Xavier University .
Andrew was selected to participate as a youth leader at the Nova Scotia, Canada - 2003 Africa-Canada Youth Symposium for Leadership in Development event hosted at St. Francis Xavier University
The programme is run by Childnet International, a non-profit organisation which seeks to make the Internet a great place for children, and sponsored by the Cable and Wireless UK, a leading Global Tele-communication company in the world, Andrew was inspired more to make a contribution in using the internet positively to heal lives.
In the words of the former British Prime Minister Tony Blair whilst endorsing the awards: " The Internet is for everyone - providing social and economic advantage and limitless opportunity to those who use the web. The winners of the Cable & Wireless Childnet Awards 2003 truly bring the Internet to life - inspiring young people to express opinions, share skills and communicate with others around the world.
I am therefore delighted to welcome them to the UK - now one of the world's most 'connected' economies. With a network of over 6000 UK online centres, thousands more can now enjoy the benefits of the Internet - and we have made a commitment to ensure that all those who want to access the Intenet can do so by 2005.
Yet we all have a responsibility to ensure that the Internet is a great and safe place, which can be used by people from all generations. The Awards demonstrate what can be achieved via the Internet and I would like to pass on my sincere congratulations to the winners and to all of those who entered the Awards."
Tony Blair, April 2003
In the words of the former British Prime Minister Tony Blair whilst endorsing the awards: " The Internet is for everyone - providing social and economic advantage and limitless opportunity to those who use the web. The winners of the Cable & Wireless Childnet Awards 2003 truly bring the Internet to life - inspiring young people to express opinions, share skills and communicate with others around the world.
I am therefore delighted to welcome them to the UK - now one of the world's most 'connected' economies. With a network of over 6000 UK online centres, thousands more can now enjoy the benefits of the Internet - and we have made a commitment to ensure that all those who want to access the Intenet can do so by 2005.
Yet we all have a responsibility to ensure that the Internet is a great and safe place, which can be used by people from all generations. The Awards demonstrate what can be achieved via the Internet and I would like to pass on my sincere congratulations to the winners and to all of those who entered the Awards."
Tony Blair, April 2003
Andrew had the honor to receive the awards and invited several friends and families including Sajor Aziz Kamara.
Andrew Benson Greene received the Cable and Wireless Childnet Awards at the Science Musuem in London April 2003 for using the internet positively to benefit children. The photo was taking with Andrew's Elder Sister Margaret.
Speaking during an exclusive radio interview with Producer Tracey Logan at Bush House Studios in London, Andrew Greene noted. "The Cable and Wireless ChildNet Awards Ceremony left us with amazement and confidence that our child soldiers project and peace reconciliation project will continue to make a difference." - Andrew Greene" leader and founder of the site".
Andrew Benson Greene made a trio presentation with canadian friend and teacher Bill Belsey and their student Rashid Peters at 8th Annual International Education and Resource Network events held at the University of Capetown, South Africa. The overall event theme of the conference was "Education in the Internet Age" July 2001. Andrew Presented his new initiatives on 'The Predicaments faced by child soldiers'. This was very well-received by the UN that were present at the Event..
Founder Andrew Greene presented at the 9th Annual International Education and Resource Network events held in Moscow Russia. The overall event theme was "Putting 'Humanware' before Hardware and software" July 2002.
Andrew Greene presented at the 9th Annual International Education and Resource Network events held in Moscow Russia. The overall event theme was "Putting 'Humanware' before Hardware and software" July 2002. Andrew Presented his ideas on peace building and telecollaboration for human rights, dignity of creation.
The Great Wall of China -
Beijing China (July 2000)
Founder Andrew Greene presented at the 7th Annual International Education and Resource Network events held in Beijing China. The event theme was 'Sharing and understanding Tele-Education in the (C21st) twenty First Century
Greene was founder of the Sierra Leone chapter of the International Education and Resource Network in 1999 just after a year after graduating from Fourah Bay College University of Sierra Leone. There he worked tirelessly for many years to locate resources so that children and youth can engage in global education programs.
The Great Wall of China -
Beijing China (July 2000)
Founder Andrew Greene presented at the 7th Annual International Education and Resource Network events held in Beijing China. The event theme was 'Sharing and understanding Tele-Education in the (C21st) twenty First Century
B-Gifted Founder Andrew Benson Greene has lived by his college maxim 'Non sibi sed aliis," which means "Not for themselves but for others". Fourah Bay College University of Sierra Leone - Class of '98.
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed, citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
― Margaret Mead
Contact:
Email: b.giftedfoundation@gmail.com
Web: http://b-gifted.org/contact/
BLOGS & WEBSITES
http://bgiftedfdn.weebly.com
http://bgiftedsl.tumblr.com
http://couragetotraversethethreshold.blogspot.com/
http://traversewithandrewgreene.blogspot.com
http://searchformyfriendslimb.blogspot.com/
http://digitalhopesierraleone.blogspot.com/
http://digitalselfpotraits.blogspot.com/
http://www.sierraexpressmedia.com/?p=31752
http://www.iearnsierraleone.org/pages/people/staff.html
http://www.sauvescholars.org/en/scholar/andrew-greene
THANKS To
YOU All .
Thank you!
