Shawn Mendes Launches New Initiative to Aid Young Leaders
Shawn Mendes has resurfaced, but this time, it’s not with new music. The young star just joined hands with Global Citizen Year to launch the Global Citizen Academy. This rather revolutionary programme offers high school graduates the opportunity to learn about their social impact in the world.
This course aims to help graduates study highly relevant social issues like human rights, racial justice, climate change and a string of other topics. The programme will witness some high-profile guest speakers sharing their views and breaking down some of these concepts. In a thoughtful move, the Shawn Mendes Foundation will also provide $250,000 worth of need-based scholarships for applicants.
Speaking of this initiative, Shawn Mendes emphasized that the youth are currently leading the charge right now, and pushing to bring about change. And this course will help them and many others build a better understanding of the world, in order to lead it. “Our world needs young leaders now more than ever. It’s been truly inspiring to watch so many young activists use their voices. By working with Global Citizen Academy, my hope is that we can empower many more young people around the world with the resources and tools they need to make an impact,” Mendes said.
Further, Abby Falik, the Global Citizen Year Founder and CEO shed light on this new path, “In recent months many have called on Gen Z — and, specifically, this year’s high school graduates — to step up and lead. But until now, no one has provided a clear and tangible way to do it,” said Falik.
“Today, we’re thrilled to partner with Shawn and his Foundation to launch Global Citizen Academy: a powerful new pathway for young people who are ready to get in the arena, level up and lead.. To anyone around the world who is inspired by Shawn’s activism and leadership, I hope you’ll join us. This is your chance to become the kind of leader our world needs now.”
Shawn Mendes will take his spot as the Global Youth Chair of the Academy. Applications for mentorship opportunities and the “Leadership In Action” guest-speaking series are also on the table.
By: Nina Karun
