I' ve traversed this path

My WISE! - My Second Call! - Third Summit!

2011-11-16T04:31:00.001-08:00

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 amongst those who value and hold premium Innovative Education.

At the WISE Summit, this Fall, I listened attentively to the debates and discussions and I heard of how teachers and educators face social and financial levels that are low in the Arab World. This pricked my mind instantaneously. My mind nudged me back to my country, Sierra Leone which still realizes ridiculously low salaries for teachers and lecturers with painfully lower and sometimes irregularly served. These short comings of social and financial status of teachers seem to go across the board and experienced by many countries; even to those countries we deem more affluent. This is indeed a short coming that needs to be addressed and assuaged if we are bent on talking and taking steps in delivering quality and innovative education around the world. We need to bolster the C21st Century learning skills, but in doing so, there needs to be a great incentive for our teachers in terms of improving their status, and financial level. I have experienced this first hand in Sierra Leone where my mum has been a dedicated teacher for over 3 decades, and I sense the pangs of it directly or indirectly through losing out lectures when lecturers have to go on strike due to such lack of incentive. Sadly, this trend still prevails as I realized that Lecturers at the University had to go on strike again on my return to Sierra Leone from the end of 2011 WISE events on November 4th. Back at the WISE debates and forums, this was an issue that was harped upon and well articulated by Dr. Muhammad Faour, who is Senior Associate at the Cornegie Middle East Centre in Lebanon, during his speech at WISE 2011. This Faour believes 'will help in bringing creativity and will allow teachers to upgrade their skills, adapt to different situation and enthusiastic and dedicated about their profession'. "Apart from the working condition of teachers, Faour also identified leadership competence of those in authority such as the Ministries of Education and proper management skills of school Administrators or Principals as amongst the enablers of change in the education system."The delivery method being used is still memorization or lecture based rather than critical thinking and problem solving". He goes on to say that "it is important to promote and develop the C21st century skills or key competent skills in classrooms such as communication in native and foreign languages, basic competence in maths, science and technology, sense of initiative and entrepreneurship, social and civic competence and cultural awareness" he said. The highlights of the 2011 WISE event was the inaugural WISE Prize for Education won by Fazle Hasan Abed of Bangladesh which carried a $500,000 and a gold medal. In recognition of his 40 years career dedicated to alleviation of poverty through education. Her Highness Sheikha Moza noted that "education is a source of power, when we use this power properly and for the right purposes. In accepting the WISE prize for education, Abed said, " I am humbled by such a great recognition, and will like to thank the Qatar Foundation for initiating this magnificent prize, and for honouring me and Bangladesh Rural Advancement Committee (BRAC), with its first instalments. I have discovered time and again in my four decades of work with BRAC, that education is the fundamental catalyst for change.Throughout the workshops, forums, and debates, I was thrilled at the fact that these words of Fazle Hasan Abed resonated in the statements and activities of the delegates, as they showcase the divergence of approaches from different countries to help solve difficult solutions through education. I found time to catch up with friends and colleagues I have met in the previous year and the plethora of new friendship through education that WISE and Qatar Foundation have offered.Andrew Benson GreeneFounder at B-Gifted FoundationITU Telecom World Digital Innovator Fellow 2011 (Geneva)Jeanne Sauvé Scholar McGill University 2004/5 (Canada)www.bgiftedfoundation.org

If You Bump Into The Richest Man In The World, What do you do?

2011-10-28T03:52:00.000-07:00

Answer: Innovate...

I seldom knew (and so do my other Digital World Fellows), that during the intensive last few days of our workshops in readiness for the final ITU International open fray, in Geneva, we could be met with Carlos Slim http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carlos_Slim who "as of 2011 is the richest person in the world, for the second year in a row. He is the chairman and chief executive of telecommunications companies Telmex and América Móvil and has extensive holdings in other Mexican companies through his conglomerate, Grupo Carso SAB, as well as business interests elsewhere in the world."

That´s just what technology does. It has the magical wand to bring people polarized by geographic difference, cultures and economic status. In an Entourage with another high profiled person; Dr Hamadoun Touré, Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) a trio of personalities, walked into the small hall guided by a professional camera crew. In this small hall charged with new ideas and vision, we experienced that it has a pressure proof for us to fine tune our ideas that were yet raw and crude and needed some refinery.

Both Carlos Slim and Dr Hamadoun Touré, agreed that the young leaders in that room, have the responsibility to make technology meaningful for the lives of others and that we all in that room, were ambassadors of our countries, working hard to change the world in a positive way via technology. There messages remained ingrained in our minds if not our hearts.

I was one of those who thanked the entourage for initiating the idea of bringing the best brains in the world to pit their wits against one an other in a true competitive spirit in a bid to find divergent solutions in solving global problems through tele communications technology.

Carlos Slim and the ITU World Digital Fellows 2011

Andrew and Dr Hamadoun Touré, (ITU Secretary General)

Several weeks before the final notifications were sent across to deserving finalists and when the shortlist numbers of ITU Digital Fellows was announced on the Official ITU Telecom Website, I have been focusing and set my mind on how technology can help give a new and fresh thinking to the whole notion of digital divide, but this time, with a little twist on how it could be a salve in the wounds. Indeed, it is a real ease of pain.

My project entitled ´Digital Hope´, like the rest of the presentations came off from our PowerPoint, as needed much trimming to the rules of 6 minutes, 10 words per slide and a specific PowerPoint format. All of the participants in one way or the other had to change their initial style of presentation and even content to meet the standardized criteria set in motion for the contest. Several pitching were done and fellows scrutinized, analyzed, criticized and edited the work of one another to come to some form of perfection.

My pain is that from 1991 to 2002, the people of Sierra Leone suffered the consequences of a brutal civil war. Amputation was used as a Weapon of war. The amputation of Civilians portrays the long years of fighting. During the war, terror tactics was physical mutilation. Although there are as yet no reliable statistics, an estimated 20,000 civilians suffered amputation of became wounded by machetes and axes being used to sever arms, legs, lips, and ears. Victims of amputation have not only been the direct victims of several years of conflict, but have suffered from social stigmatization and marginalized from the mainstream of technology and the information society.In these amputee camps, I saw firsthand, the misery, hunger, and humiliation that smoulder after a decade of war and violence. I saw the maimed, the diseased, the broken-hearted, these amputees made forlorn by machetes of brutal rebel onslaught. I also saw bare-footed children, with swollen, protruded stomachs, amputee fathers with heads bowed, pale amputee mothers, with sickly babies, (some of these children are also amputees), themselves, and grandparents in utter despair. I saw the grave meaning of human rights violation, poverty, hunger, and could have easily felt forlorn and despairing like the amputees themselves. But some inner strength overrides this feeling. That strength is inspired by my vision for change in the plight of these victims by the magic of telecommunication technology. These amputees felt deprivation and marginalization to the bones. But I did not shy away at the sight of what I fathomed at these amputee camps. I could not be deterred by the sounds and horrendous stories of death, utter savagery and brutality, and gross human rights violation. I instantaneously thought that much like the Holocaust Genocide, and their victims and survivors, these survivors of amputation, these amputees in Sierra Leone can recount their stories and experiences, even though sordid and bitter to the rest of the world via new multimedia tele-communication technologies so that the society will learn from this and that such violations will never be repeated again. Through this idea, technology can also be used as a vehicle to examine the social, personal, and historical issues surrounding disfigurements resulting from war and conflict.

My Idea.
My idea is to provide tele communication technologies and multi media technologies to amputee victims of the war. It may sound weird if you view it from a short sighted prism. That is exactly what sets me apart. I realized that amputees can use their extra limbs to access computers. These technologies can give them a powerful voice in the mass media, and become an extra ordinary tool, that they can use to bear witness to their plight, thereby bringing about attention, hope and healing to people who are almost forgotten victims.

I believe that in providing them these technologies, we are giving them an extra arm, that can somehow, atone for their missing arms. These technologies will allow them to reach-out, in a way that has never been experienced before. Technology literally becomes a virtual outstretching arm that provides the leverage for the amputees to overcome their difficult situation. In so doing, we are giving them a true and authentic voice in the mass media, untainted by the lens of mass media journalism. We are undoubtedly bringing full blown attention to their plight which seems to be always forgotten.
We are thus providing them with the tools that supersede their crutches, wheel chairs, prosthesis, and providing a kind of disability supplement. We are bringing those once marginalized to use the vehicle of technology which they otherwise will not have. We are affirming that modern technologies does not discriminate against those who are poor, the vulnerable, those who are marginalized, and those who can ill afford as a result of the overwhelming difficulties they face.

I once told some of my colleagues at a workshop that ´we need to innovate, explore and experiment new technologies that are user friendly, and that can help the physically challenge and suit their daily needs. We have to adapt technologies that can allow these categories of end users apply the technology to suit their situation and for their diurnal needs.´

These technologies can create a ´Middle Path´where all of us can work through devoid of our physical conditions and circumstances. In taking them through that path, and through that journey, we are taking away from them their physical disabilities and through technology and interaction, they will feel a sense of normalcy, online community support, through networking, sharing and communicating.

If Carlos Slim could have come closer, I could have whispered in his ears, the words, ´´We innovate´.

Andrew Benson Greene
ITU Digital World Fellow 2011 (WINNER)
Jeane Sauve Scholar - McGill university Canada 2004.
Founder at bGifted Foundation

http://youtu.be/AQzaM_jUBrI

Digital Innovator, ITU Fellow

2011-10-18T04:05:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to B-Gifted Founder and CEO Andrew Benson Greene from
Sierra Leone, who this week, has been 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. As an
“ITU Fellow’, and digital innovator from Sierra Leone `, Greene hopes
that as one of the selected talents, he will build his ground-breaking
idea at several workshops in Geneva and ‘work closely with the partner
Not For Profits, he and other shortlisted winners will pitch their
developed ideas to World 11 delegates and also have the chance to
pitch to world leaders and win seed funding. At the workshops, the
mentors will ensure the ‘developed solution is fit for purpose’.
Greene hopes ‘to use his knowledge and skills to make the world a
better place’.

About ITU
ITU Telecom organizes influential events for the global ICT community,
providing a unique networking platform where heads of State and
Government, heads of industry, digital innovators, visionaries and
more can connect, network, debate and take action.
ITU Telecom is a part of ITU, the United Nations Specialized agency
for information and communications technologies. ITU itself has many
vital roles as well as the organization of ITU Telecom events,
including allocating global radio spectrum and satellite orbits,
developing the technical standards that ensure networks and
technologies seamlessly interconnect, and striving to improve access
to ICTs to underserved communities worldwide.
As a specialized United Nations Agency, ITU has a unique global reach
and an extensive experience in convening top players to shape the
future of ICTs. ITU is committed to connecting the entire world’s
people.
ITU Telecom is very grateful for the support of key representatives
from across the world of ICT in helping shape our events. Helping
chart a future course for the ITU Telecom events is the ITU Telecom
Board of Directors, a high-level panel comprising top-level
representatives from major global ICT corporations and organizations.
The Forum Advisory Committee is an influential committee comprising
representatives from industry, government, international
organizations, regulators and the worlds of academia and law, amongst
others, who come together to help shape the agenda for Forum debates.Andrew Benson Greene has been named an ITU Digital Innovator for 2011. Telecom World 2011 will take place in Geneva on October 24-27. It aims to bring together industry CEOs and world leaders, digital experts, technology gurus, and grassroots technology pioneers to tackle core issues shaping the global ICT landscape in the age of broadband technology. In a departure from previous Telecom World events, Telecom World 2011 will dispense with the traditional exhibition show floor and instead focus on facilitating knowledge sharing, networking, deal making, and consensus building.

Belief In:'Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights and freedoms. In its very first session in 1946, before any human rights declarations or treaties had been adopted, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 59(I) stating "Freedom of information is a fundamental human right and ... the touchstone of all the freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated."Other Contributions,Quotes, Commendations and Awards:Aureal Writers Club Awards 1996James B. Boskey Memorial Fresh Faces Awards, 2000Goi Peace Foundation Essay Writing Awards 2000Cable and Wireless Childnet awards 2003Bremen Peace Commendation -Threshold Foundation Germany 2003Beyond Borders Listen Up Awards 2003Sauve Scholars Awards 2004Global junior Challenge Awards 2007In addition Greene was on the shortlist for the 'digital Visions Fellows' at Stanford University california USA.

Doha-Qatar 2010 - 2nd World Innovation Summit for Education

2010-12-06T15:27:00.001-08:00

In recent times, Qatar may have been well known around the world for her winning the bid to host the 2022 World Cup. Aljazeera Network, CNN and other news media highlighted this triumph and showed glimpse of this amazing and rapidly growing country of wealth and splendor. But beyond the recent triumph that Qatar has to host the 2022 world cup, is the highly educational WISE summit.

Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development held the second
World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE) in Doha, Qatar, from 7 to 9 December 2010. As founder and CEO of B-Gifted foundation, I was summoned to attend, due to my 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. It was for this reason that I received an invitation to attend this Summit from Chairman H.E Sheikh Abdulla bi Ali al Thami on behalf of Her Highness Sheikha Mozah Bint Nasser Al Missned, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation to attend the Hosted over a three days period, the 2010 WISE Summit brought together over 1,000 prominent education, corporate, political and social leaders from all sectors of society across the globe for an intensive program promoting debate, inter-disciplinary exchange, networking, creative thinking and action. Under the overarching and permanent theme of the WISE initiative "Building the Future of Education", it focused on two main areas: "Improving Education Systems" and "Exploring Innovative Trends". In addition to Plenary and Breakout Sessions organized around these subjects, another Plenary Session specifically addressed the crucial issue.
In an interview with the Qatar Tribune, Chairman H.E Sheikh Abdulla bi Ali al Thami Chairman of the WISE summit and Vice Chairman of the Qatar Foundation noted that “we continue to have WISE as a platform for everybody to come together. We continue to have WISE as an action oriented forum. We continue to partner with several Universities. We designed the agenda for the WISE for a global audience. We learn what is good for us from the various initiatives. We know that ICT’s play a major role in education so we try to figure out how we can benefit from it. We designed the agenda of the summit from what is important outside our boarder, rather than
inside”. “The idea behind the WISE” he goes on to say “is creating more time for people to come together and network. I think through the WISE we care trying to create more opportunities to dialogue. WISE is the educational DEVOS of the Middle East.” Chairman H.E Sheikh Abdulla bi Ali al Thami also said. “This time, delegates and speakers were given more time to interact than the inaugural WISE summit of last year. Exhibition areas had more information for everyone who attended the summit” I was amazed by the sense of humility, patriotism, determination, hospitality and rapid
development of the people of Qatar. Their sense of modesty was seen in spite of their
outstanding feat in a country that simply fuels ones senses with dreams and wonderment. This new iconic city of Doha in Qatar, home to the WISE summit has embraced education as a key and the light that can illuminate the path to development. whilst Qatar has made recent history as host to the world Cup in 2022, the country is rising fast, fulfilling their unique and inspirational vision, with their breathtaking skyscraping towers, idyllic waterfront, vibrant streets and commercial business parks. Qatar also holds the inspiration and aspiration combined with the prop and stay of special national and international partners. These
organizations and partner institutions have collaborated with Qatar Foundation to conceive and achieve high quality debates and workshops. They institutions include: Agence Universitaire de la Francophone, (AUF), Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU), Institute of International Education, International Association of University Presidents (IAUP), RAND Corporation, United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), Al Jazeera Network, Euronews, ExxonMobil Corporation in Qatar, Qatar Petroleum, and Microsoft. These partnerships do demonstrate that Qatar is not just about its beauty and splendor but the premium and heavy emphasis it puts into national and international education goals. That is in essence why WISE was born a year ago, and that is why 43% rise on the number of Qataris studying abroad in the US alone, a total of 663 Qatari students are currently enrolled in colleges and universities in the US. Allan Goodman, President of the US-based Institute of International Education, (IIE), speaking at a press round table held at the US Ambassador’s residence in Doha, said; “ the growing educational exchanges between the US and Qatar promote closer relationship
and dialogue between the two countries.” Moderator: Abu-Wardeh .ima, Journalist and Broadcaster, presenter of BBC World’s Middle East Business Report At the Plenary, Lord David Puttnam, Chairman, Futurelab UK, expressed that ‘ It is a genuine
pleasure to be asked to present. Teachers are the infantry that can help change the world and fight the war against illiteracy. Teachers/pupils represent the foundation. We have to wage a war against a failed present, and build an imaginative /innovative future. We need to be serious about education and urge government to bring new education policies.” He went on to say that “we have to focus on a long term investment on teachers. Revisit the educational budget, conceptualize debt and relevance. This is where technology can help teachers.” “Improving the effectiveness of education by participation in higher education is important and improving the situations of students in the developing world”. He lamented on the Problems of climate change, and that there is a huge Inter-generational alienation such that ‘The young no longer trust us’ because ‘we have stolen their food, and rights. Never before in history have we been living in each other’s pockets. There is an urgent need to bring back young people’s trust and respect.” Another interesting quote from his speech is when he sincerely noted
that “No matter how gifted you are you will never teach successfully anyone who does not trust you.” He concluded that with “Commitment in government, teachers and all other stakeholders in education will make us succeed”. Why innovation matters in school? Innovative teaching practices- teachers learn in and out of the class room, children use ICT and innovative technologies practically. Education has to be of relevance: how to obtain resources relevant to the work is vital. Earning, learning by doing, addresses motivation are all key elements. Making money motivates teaches and learners as well to be very proactive. They have to sell what they produce and use renewable energy. Learning to be productive and entrepreneurial is very important. Let’s try to be innovative and that education can also strive to
pay for itself. Amongst the many workshops and plenary sessions attended, I was drawn to one of the breakout sessions on improving educational systems particularly the section and workshop that focused on “Education and reconciliation”. In Post-conflict zones, reconciliation between the past and present individuals and communities. Speakers who delivered on the topic of education and reconciliation are: Dr. Fanie Du Toit, (Executive Director for Institute for Justice and
Reconciliation in South Africa, Prof Brandon Hamber, Director ‘The International Conflict Research Institute (INCORE), university of Ulster, (UK) to name but a few. Technology made it possible for Jeffery Sachs to address the summit from New York via video conference. Jeffery Sachs. Director of The Earth Institute, Quetelet, Professor of Sustainable Development and Professor of Health Policy and Management at Columbia University; Special Advisor to United Nations Secretary –General Ban ki-Moon (USA), said from a video conference in New York that “Education is the key empowerment to be able to function well in this world. Every society in the world faces the challenge of gaining quality education. Education is about the entire life-time. Early child hood development safe environment, low stress, preschool are crucial before further education start to give children the right to use their potential. Secondary education is also crucial for also young girl”…What WISE is championing is at the heart and soul of societal development. We live in the digital ways. Wireless broadband makes it possible to bring a whole village school in Africa connected to schools around the world. H.E. Abdulla bi Ali Al Thani, PhD, Chairman of WISE noted Thank you for all the feels that you have expressed both for the world cup bid., we do believe in Qatar that indeed we should work hard more than just thinking,. We must work before we talk. The most important lesson that we have realized is that the young people of Qatar and the Arab world is about the participatory. Well- defined practice can also help create an impact into the international arena. Wise has created a launching pad. This conference will give free access to those participating in the project and to yield qualitative leap. WISE looks at very serious projects that are marketable and that can be implemented. We all strive to achieve the MDG and to do this we have to be realistic. During the
conference, I realized how close you were to the issues of the MDG and we had very
constructive ideas, and if all these ideas are properly used will bring new possibilities for qualitative approach. Education for all is one of the main MDG.
WISE is about outcomes. Decisions in the cause of the coming year will help shape WISE. I will like to know more about the many interactions, a website for the exchange of ideas and expand networks and opportunities, sited HAITI as an example of a place to assist and unite in seeking innovative ways to build educational system from the ground-up He mentioned the significant new tool for the global community and announced the international awards have celebrated success and triumph. There has been no major price for what happening around the world. The WISE prize for education that is newly announced will represent the aspirations of innovators in education. We have made real progress in this years program. Want
to thank partners and sponsors. We hope to provide education for the marginalized and provide opportunities in conflict zones. Vicky Colbert, founder and Director at Escuela Nueva puts it this way, “we need an adaptable system of education”.
Her Majesty Sheikha Mozah Bint Al Missned chairperson of the Qatar Foundation
In her key note to the Second World Innovation Summit for Education, Her Majest Sheikha Mozah Bint Al Missned chairperson of the Qatar Foundation said: “ innovation, creativity and best practices are key to the success of this summit.” These words resonated in my mind because I was at Qatar not only to create an establish networks and a long-standing collaboration for BGifted but also to showcase B-Gifted Foundation’s mission in its use of creativity, innovation
and technology to achieve its goals in Sierra Leone. B-Gifted’s mission to use creativity and technology to achieve its goals comes appropriately in the relevance to the conference goals at the WISE Summit, as set out by the Qatar Foundation. Her Majesty Sheikha Mozah Bint Al Missned noted that “ the Qatar Foundation created WISE not merely as a summit, but also as a platform to stimulate dialogue and collaboration among the many individuals and organizations committed to education and to inspire the most original and effective new ideas”. Wise 2010 thus pursued its vision of sustainable innovative education that reaches out to those in need and helps improve the quality of education for all. Her highness emphasized that the United Nations Millennium development Goals are the internationally agreed platform for promoting equality, ending poverty and hunger, respecting the environment and promoting healthy life-styles. The MDG’s can only be achieved through education . WISE is providing a timely opportunity to think about the importance of education as the pillar of sustainable development.” In Sierra Leone, post-conflict encumbrances such as poverty and economic crises, ill-health, trauma, impact and impede the quality of education and the access to quality education both at the primary, secondary and even tertiary institutions. At B-Gifted Foundation, we strive to
narrow some of these gaps and contribute to the realization of the Millennium Development Goals. Working closely with other groups such as Heart in Action Enterprise http://www.heartinaction.com, we hope to connect youth not just in Sierra Leone but throughout Africa. We intend to provide access to various projects from around Sierra Leone and across Africa that are taking action towards promoting and making changes and positive transformations in the world. The host organizations are dedicated to providing the most advanced communications technology available to enable and empower individuals and groups to collaborate on and find solutions for critical and key problems and issues faced by the world B-Gifted Foundation Sierra Leone striving to bring basic primary education as part of the MDG for children
of amputee parents at the amputee camps in orthern Sierra Leone, and hope to build schools for these children so that they can study in a conducive and safe learning environment. I was delighted to be part of the growing WISE community to further attract the educational sector to be able to help shape policies that can improve education in Sierra Leone through the examples set by WISE, and the summit actually sparked my imagination and inspired me more towards contributing in the area of educational development and innovative approaches. It is my hope and that of B-Gifted that through the WISE program and its partners, B-Gifted will find and
provide concrete solutions in education and enable the young people of Sierra Leone who have been impacted by war and war’s effect to acquire quality and valuable education that can impact. B-Gifted Foundation hopes to gain support to Providing more access to Information Communication Technology for youth in post-conflict Sierra Leone B-Gifted Foundation congratulates QATAR FOU.DATIO., PART.ERS A.D WISE for hosting such a wonderful summit in 2010 and looking forward to practically putting into actions the lessons learnt from this summit. Wish the best of luck for WISE 2011 and collaborative projects and networking opportunities.

Andrew Benson Greene
B-Gifted Foundation Sierra Leone
www.bgiftedfoundation.org
52 Spur Loop Freetown Sierra Leone
Tel: 00232-33-246994 Fax: 00232-22-224439

Welcome to the 2nd World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE).

Andrew Benson Greene Founder and CEO of B-Gifted Foundation of Sierra Leone www.bgiftedfoundation.org has been summoned to attend the 2nd World Innovation Summit(WISE) held in Doha Qatar from the 7th to the 9th of December 2010. The Summit is organized by the Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and community Development. The summit brings together 1,000 prominent education, corporate, political and social leaders from all sectors across the globe for an intensive programme promoting debate, inter-disciplinary exchange, networking, and creative thinking and action. Under the overarching and permanent theme of the WISE initiative,’ Building the future of Education, it will focus on two main areas: Improving Educational Systems” and exploring innovative trends’.

Belief In:'Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights and freedoms. In its very first session in 1946, before any human rights declarations or treaties had been adopted, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 59(I) stating "Freedom of information is a fundamental human right and ... the touchstone of all the freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated."Other Contributions,Quotes, Commendations and Awards:Aureal Writers Club Awards 1996James B. Boskey Memorial Fresh Faces Awards, 2000Goi Peace Foundation Essay Writing Awards 2000Cable and Wireless Childnet awards 2003Bremen Peace Commendation -Threshold Foundation Germany 2003Beyond Borders Listen Up Awards 2003Sauve Scholars Awards 2004Global junior Challenge Awards 2007In addition Greene was on the shortlist for the 'digital Visions Fellows' at Stanford University california USA.

Go Digital! Go Creative! Inspire!

2010-09-23T09:49:00.001-07:00

Andrew Benson Greene has set himself apart from others in his field. He is currently the Founder and CEO of B-Gifted foundation of Sierra Leone. www.bgiftedfoundation.cfsites.org and the West African Represntative of the Global Peace Partners Inc. Andrew Greene has 10+ years experience in the non-profit sector, youth and technology and the issues of former child soldiers and human rights of children in areas of conflict. His slogan is 'just as it takes acts of war to make war, it takes acts of peace to make peace'. Andrew has worked tirelessly to locate resources so that children and youth can engage in global education for peace building and human rights. His initiatives helped to train over 800 Sierra Leonean youth and children to develop ICT skills with the intent to reclaim their potentials as productive citizens. His project has touched the hearts of so many people. In an interview with Tracy Logan, producer of 'Go Digital Technology' at the BBC studios in London in 2003, Andrew stated to the world that; "we are proud of our accomplishment so far, but remain in dire need of technical, moral and financial support to train our youth, and give them a voice through the power of new technologies and the internet". He has traveled world-wide, from Beijing to Moscow, to Washington, to share his vision of using information technology amongst children and war scarred youth. A referee once noted that: 'Mr. Greene's efforts have had a profound effect on the minds of young people around the world, from Sierra Leone to Cambodia to Afghanistan. His efforts attracted the United Nations to his project as a model to be used in countries affected by war". Mr. Greene contributed enormously as a Guest Speaker to the Canadian International Development Agency CIDA in Ottawa, in 2004 during the International Corporation Days Millennium Development Goals: Moving from Consensus to Momentum. He was also a speaker and presenter at the 'Africa Now Untold Stories Conference', hosted and supported by CIDA at the University of Carleton in Ottawa, Canada in 2005, where with other distinguished speakers like Alan Rock (Former Justice Minister of Canada), and Romeo Dellariara (The decorated Canadian General), he helped to raise over 5 Million Canadians Dollars through the Canada Fund for Africa, for War Affected Youth in Africa. He was a presenter at the Youth Panel of the 1st World Summit on Information Society in Geneva, and the 1st World Ethics forum for Leadership and Integrity in Oxford UK. Mr. Greene has gathered multiple awards, citations, and bursaries for his peace building efforts and Internet-based innovations. For several years in Sierra Leone, he has overseen and coordinated the successfully implementation of War Child Canada DFAIT funded project No War Zone. Andrew was a distinguished Sauvé scholar at McGill University, Montreal Canada. Mr. Greene was contracted twice by the World Bank in DC to produce video documentaries for the World Development Report 2007 focusing on youth unemployment in Sierra Leone and the ‘Next Generation. In 2003, he was the script writer, mentor, and producer of the Internationally acclaimed award-winning video, 'We don't wanno war' for Beyond Borders, Personal Stories from a small Planet hosted by Listen UP! in NY, USA. In 2005, he made a significant contribution to the book, 'Raise Your Voice, Lend A Hand, Change The World' written by Susan Hughes and produced by Scholastic Canada. He holds a BA in English Civil Law and International Relations and is currently a double Masters Candidate for an MA Program in Coexistence and Conflict in US. Andrew is a real trailblazer. Another referee noted: "It’s not just that Andrew Greene is mold breaking. What’s most important is that he is a powerful model for other young African leaders".

 His Professional Profile: http://www.linkedin.com/in/bgiftedfdn

 His fire-blazing blog: www.traversewithandrewgreene.blogspot.com

 His Honors: www.sauvescholars.org

 His vision: www.bgiftedfoundation.cfsites.org

 His courage: http://www.couragetotraversethethreshold.blogspot.com

 His artistry: www.digitalselfpotrait.blogspot.com

Breath-taken Milestones & Achievements of Founder in relation to the strength of his vision, courage, Recognition for peace, human rights, and ICT at the national and International Level: Andrew sets himself apart from others in his field.

 Andrew the Director won the 2004/5 Sauvé Scholarship from Jeanne Sauvé the first woman named Governor General of Canada to enroll at McGill University in Canada in August 2004.

 Jeanne Sauve Scholar Andrew Benson Greene was Shortlisted winner and finalist at The Global Junior Challenge in Rome Italy 2007, and honoured to be invited for the awards. His winning presentation which has been so far replicated in other war-affected countries is: "Closing The Digital Gap Amongst Children and Youth Emerging from Wars". This was on the Fourth edition of the Global Junior Challenge, which took place in Rome from the 3rd to 5th of October 2007. It was hosted by the 'Fondazione Modeo Digitale', (a non-profit organization founded by the Municipality of Rome). He was welcomed to participate at the exhibition of finalist projects of the 'Global Junior Challenge' (Rome, Galileo Galilei Institute) and at the Award Ceremony (Rome, Campidoglio City Hall) in the presence of the Mayor of Rome, Walter Veltroni.

 Jeanne Sauve Scholar Andrew Benson Greene won the Cable & and Wireless ChildNet Awards Science Museum in London, UK in April 2003 in the new to the net category. In endorsing the awards, former Prime Minister of Britain Tony Blair noted that 'The Internet is for everyone, providing social and economic advantage and limitless opportunities to all those who use the web. We are delighted to welcome the winners to the UK, one of the world's most connected economies.' Swati Patel and Joe Franses from Cable & Wireless joined the winners during the Awards week. Cable & Wireless is one of the world's leading telecommunication companies. Provider to the largest users of telecoms services across the Globe.

 Andrew Benson Greene was shortlisted and commended by the Threshold Foundation in Germany - Bremen Peace Awards 2003. Under the category of the award for the Unknown Peace Worker, Andrew was commended by The Threshold Foundation, in Bremen, Germany for his peace mission via tele-education. This category targets at little known, small initiatives/projects, but also at committed single persons working in the fields above with special emphasis for unconventional initiatives at the grassroots level of peace work

 Beyond Borders Listen Up Award winning video project for personal stories from a small Planet Hosted by Listen Up New York, USA
'We don't wanno war' was the title of Andrew's video which was featured in CNN amongst 15 shortlisted entries from around the world.

 Lead Presenter at the African-Canadian Youth Symposium for Leadership and Integrity, held at the Coady International Institute, Saint Francis Xavier University, Antigonish, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada June 2003.

 Andrew was Guest Speaker at The Hague International Model United Nations (THIMUN). THIMUN exist to uphold the principles of the United Nations amongst the young. 2004

 His presentation for the 'Migration between States and Markets for the Research Committee (RC31), University of Liege Belgium 2003. His presentation in 2003 was 'Refugees and their Impact Upon Migration'.

 March 8th, 2005: Andrew Benson Greene Jr participated in a Global Peace Exhibition at the World Bank Headquarters in Washington DC, titled ‘Building a culture of Peace and Non-violence for the Children of the world.

 December, 2003: He represented Sierra Leone at the 1st World Summit on the Information Society WSIS in Geneva, Switzerland at the Palexpo Exhibition Centre on the theme "Bridging the digital divide”.

 His experience in witnessing the launching of the GeSCI in 2003, a Global Initiative proposed by the UN-ICT Taskforce has been used to propel his organization's goals and vision. This initiative was supported by the European Commission, to connect schools and communities before the year 2015. "...Mrs Kofi Annan noted that ..."and having met so many young ones with their eyes glittering with hopes and dreams, I feel we have to do everything we can to help turn these dreams into reality, and in today's world we must use all our tools in our disposal"

 Andrew as director of International Education hosted his first International Workshop in China 2000 ‘Use Of Tele-communications Technology to illustrate ‘Conflict Resolution in the 21st Century’

 Made a trio presentation ‘The Predicaments Faced by Child Soldiers' with Andrew as lead presenter at the University of Cape Town, in Cape Town, South Africa July 2001.

 As a Sauve Scholar, he was invited by the Canadian Government to make Presentations at the CIDA Human Security Conference 'War to Peace Transition' supported by CIDA, UNICEF and The Pearson Peace Keeping Centre in Ottawa. 2005

 Andrew made presentations at the iEARN International conference in Moscow, Russia in 2002. 'The overall theme was Putting Humanware before hardware and software'. Andrew's Presentation was 'May Peace Prevail On Earth'.

 Founded the B-Gifted Foundation - (Benson - Greene International Foundation Towards Enhancing Development) 2007 which is loving memory of his Dad who bears the name.
 Andrew Attended the ‘African Canadian Youth Leadership Symposium in St Francis Xavier in Antigonish, Nova Scotia, Canada as a lead Presenter in July 2003

 Andrew was a Guest Speaker at the Hague International Model United Nations in January 2004 the Hague, Netherlands. He also taught peace studies at the International School of Amsterdam

 Andrew meets with and made links with Romeo Dalliare and Secretary David Hyman in the following conferences: ‘Peel District School Board Conference’ in Toronto November 2004, The International Corporations Days Hosted By CIDA in November 2004, and the ‘Africa Now Untold Stories Conference at Carleton University in March 2005, and later at the Kofi Annan International Peace Training Centre in Accra Ghana.

 Director Andrew Greene named ‘My Hero’ in 2004 www.myhero.com that celebrates the best of humanity.

 Andrew was selected by the World Bank in DC to participate amongst other notables such as Mary Robinson and presented at the 1st World Ethics Forum for Leadership and Integrity in Oxford England April 2006.

 Andrew was chosen to become an adviser for teen producers at the Irmas International Youth Media Summit in Los Angeles California. July 2006. He had the privilege to meet with and consult with Hollywood film-makers and stars, and helped teens around the world to produce videos, Public Service Announcements (PSA), on themes that include Peace and war(violence), racism, environment, health, women's issues, youth empowerment, poverty, etc

 Andrew was a Guest Speaker at the Education without Borders (United Arab Emirates in Abu Dhabi) February 2007 and met with such renowned individuals as Professor Muhammad Yunus 2006 Nobel Peace Prize Winner, Plácido Domingo (world-renowned award-winning singer and conductor), Professor Johannes Georg Bednorz, (1987 Nobel Prize for Physics), Chris Cramer, (former CNN Director) to name but a few

 Andrew Greene was summoned as Guest Speakers in a campus-wide lectures, at Kenyon College, Gambier, Ohio on the topic ‘Children in the Crossfire’. March 2007. His expertise was also requested in a one day campus-wide lectures at neighbouring Nazarene University in Ohio, USA.

 Was chosen as one of 5 Young Leaders chosen from across the continents at the Technopreneurship conference hosted by Y2Y, World Bank in Washington DC. As part of week long celebrations to mark the 60th Anniversary of the United Nations that year, the WB's Youth to Youth Community (Y2Y), in association with the East Asia and Pacific Vice Presidency , IT SLC Quickstart Learning Program, eDevelopment Thematic Group, UNANCA, TakingITGlobal, YABT (OAS) and IDB YOUTH hosted a day of activities on Youth led development, on October 27th 2005, from 9:00 am to 6:30 pm at the World Bank Headquarters in Washington D.C. Other participants include;
*Saurav Kumar, Co-founder, Community Friendly Movement (CFM) - India, Educating for sustainable development through the use of Information and communication Technologies (ICT):
*Cecilia Iglesias, Founder, EcoPibes - Argentina,
*Andrew Benson Greene, of Sierra Leone; co-Founder, Child Soldiers Project - Sierra Leone
*Wu Yang, Founder, Household Wastewater Recycling Management Project - China

 Andrew was consulted and contracted by the Global Integrity Alliance USA as a Contract Reader in 2005.

 Andrew made several presentations to the youth at the Boys and Girls Club of the Peninsula, San Francisco Bay Area. California 2008

 Andrew visited Connie Linda of the Insight Creative Communications, Peer1 Network and benefactors (for possible development of his Projects in Canada, April 2007. the result of the visit was a meeting held with several British Columbia investors and the support of a 1Giga Bytes per second internet service support to his project.

 Andrew was a participant at the Exercise Prodigal Child – Child soldiers simulation Exercise Accra Ghana 2007.

 Successfully Implemented the Plan Netherlands initiative 'Rap for Rights' April 2004. This powerful and creative initiative is committed to a tireless global campaign of making the issue of children’s rights known. Using rap music and social activism, Plan Netherlands targets politicians and educates them about the need to restore the dignity of children, the rights of the child and the rights of humanity as a whole. In the process, participants are empowered to make a difference in the lives of others.
Under the title ‘Rap for Rights’ a number of 'rising' Dutch rappers travel to Africa, Asia and Latin America to make contact with children living in extreme circumstances. The rappers’ tour includes, among other countries, Indonesia, Honduras, and Guinea where they meet child workers, war affected youth, child soldiers, and youth gangs.

 Formally Launched the International Education and Resources Network Program at the National Stadium in 2003 supported by Dr. Denis Bright, former Minister of Youth and Sports

 Andrew helped to successfully pilot the Digital Ambassador's Project or widely known as the Planet Project using Palm Pilot Computers in a Global Digital Survey, supported by Microsoft, 3Com Corporation in America, and the International Education and Resource Network in 2000

 Andrew was supported by CIDA (Canadian International Development Agency) and the Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE) to participate at the 2004 'Leaders in Action for Education Conference in Toronto.

 Andrew was consulted by the World Bank in DC 2007 (and as part of the consultation team) produced video documentaries for the World Development Report, focusing on youth unemployment and the 'Next Generation'.

 Andrew was consulted and contracted by the Open Society Institute in Budapest in his use of ICT in education and post-conflict Societies 2005.

 Andrew was selected as the West African Representative for the Global peace Partners Inc USA 2009

 Andrew contributed to the Harvard University Program on Negotiation and Conflict Resolution (PON) presented by Dr. Frank Elbers PhD. 2004

 Andrew was in the short list of the Digital Visions Fellows at Standford University, California in 2004.

 Andrew taught peace and non-violence at the WH Day Elementary School in Bradford, Ontario Canada 2004/5

 Andrew Taught Peace at the Anthropology Class at the Concordia University Montreal Canada 2005

 Andrew was Chair person at the three days workshop. The theme of the forum was: 'ICT and the Youth: A Rebirth After War' and was held at the British Council in Freetown Sierra Leone 2003, where the youth of Sierra Leone, leaders in the new round of information technology, hosted radio discussion and phone-in programmes over two days and a three-day national interactive forum to synchronize the WSIS activities with the preparations in Geneva, Switzerland.

-Presentations UNFPA - Sierra Leone 'State of the world Population' - (Moving Young) 2006 Miatta Conference Freetown.

Contributed to the Global Campaign for Education with a PowerPoint Presentation on April 9th 2003 (the largest simultaneous lesson and a world record attempt at the largest lesson in support of the campaign for Global Education for All

 Campaign for Good Governance, Democracy and Human rights in Conakry, Guinea 1998, producing advocacy materials for the restoration of democracy in Sierra Leone

 Student Representative Council (SRC) Fourah Bay College 1995-6

 *Assist Secretary General for the Fourah Bay College Students Union Government 1996-1998

 School Prefect, Bo Government Secondary School 1992/3

* Secretary (Catholic Youngmen's Association) (CYO) LAdy Star of the Sea Juba Freetown 2005-6

 Radio and TV showcase -
-BBC Studios interviews London 2002,
BBC Studios 2003 (Go Digital Technology) with interviews with Tracy Logan
- Tele-Quebec, Montreal, Province of Quebec Canada 2005

 Other media featured series:
- Canada's Globe and Mail June 2004
- BBC world service news (Technology 2003)
- Sierra Leone news 2003
- SLBS TV (now SLBC), ABC TV, 2003/4/5/6
-Radio Democracy Sierra Leone 2001
- UNAMSIL Radio 2006
- Star Radio 2010

Belief In:'Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights and freedoms. In its very first session in 1946, before any human rights declarations or treaties had been adopted, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 59(I) stating "Freedom of information is a fundamental human right and ... the touchstone of all the freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated."Other Contributions,Quotes, Commendations and Awards:Aureal Writers Club Awards 1996James B. Boskey Memorial Fresh Faces Awards, 2000Goi Peace Foundation Essay Writing Awards 2000Cable and Wireless Childnet awards 2003Bremen Peace Commendation -Threshold Foundation Germany 2003Beyond Borders Listen Up Awards 2003Sauve Scholars Awards 2004Global junior Challenge Awards 2007In addition Greene was on the shortlist for the 'digital Visions Fellows' at Stanford University california USA.

Voice of the Muse

2010-03-13T09:23:00.000-08:00

My Poetry
Title: For Your Sparkling Brilliance,

For Your Sparkling Brilliance,
They formed an unholy alliance,
They revolted, rebelled, ganged up,
Bought arms,
Well armed,
Chopped arms,
Formed an unholy alliance.

For your sparkling brilliance,
They sold you,
A precious stone,
Destroyed thousands of precious innocent souls,
Leaving in their wake
Many lives at stake,
A severe stake of skulls, blood and bones.

For your sparkling brilliance,
Around those beautiful tender female fingers
Is a special glittering diamond ring.
For Your Sparkling Brilliance,
You were sent as an attachment to her ears
Glittering those smiling faces.
But your Sparkling Brilliance,
Left in its wake,
Tears,
Fears,
Skulls, blood and bones.

When your sparkling brilliance,
Brings joy and happiness,
Does not form a dismal alliance,
Does not ferment wars,
Is n’t a blood diamond,
Does not leave in its wake
Tears,
Fears,
Skulls, blood and bones.
That beautiful gem stone,
In this country where it has naturally grown,
Will be all my own,
And I shall proudly own.

Andrew Benson Greene
October 11th 2009.

Belief In:
'Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights and freedoms. In its very first session in 1946, before any human rights declarations or treaties had been adopted, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 59(I) stating "Freedom of information is a fundamental human right and ... the touchstone of all the freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated."
Other Contributions,
Quotes, Commendations and Awards:
Aureal Writers Club Awards 1996
James B. Boskey Memorial Fresh Faces Awards, 2000
Goi Peace Foundation Essay Writing Awards 2000
Cable and Wireless Childnet awards 2003
Bremen Peace Commendation -Threshold Foundation Germany 2003
Beyond Borders Listen Up Awards 2003
Sauve Scholars Awards 2004
Global junior Challenge Awards 2007
In addition Greene was on the shortlist for the 'digital Visions Fellows' at Stanford University california USA.

Meet the Sauve Scholars of 2004/5

2010-01-05T04:49:00.001-08:00

FINAL CERTIFICATION AND DINNER AT THE MONTREAL RACKET CLUB ON MONDAY 18TH OF APRIL 2005 AT 6:30 PM. THE LOCATION IS 396 CONCORD STREET SOUTH OF SHEBROOK

Sunday March 5th 2005
Sauve scholars left Montreal for DC and arrived at the Ronald Regan international Airport DC at 10:00 AM. We stayed at the washington Terrace Hotel at 1515 Rhode Island Avenue NW.

On Monday, March 6th 2005
Scholars had the opportunity to visit the World Bank, where we listened attentively to a major presentation made by Charles McPherson, Senior Adviser on Oil, Gas and Chemicals. We were drawn to Charles insightful speeches as he delved into the Bank's policy work in mitigating or reversing the "Resource Course" in Oil and Mineral rich countries.
Scholars also had the opportunity to visit the Office of Senator Michael Dewine from Ohio at the Senate Russel Building located at Delaware and C-Street. The Sauve group was merged with students from Vanderbilt University and college Gerard Godin. We became briefed by one of Senator Michael Dewine's Staffers (Kristine Poptanich) and later we had a pleasant and memorable tour at the Capital Building.

Tuesday
Scholars visited and met Senior Staff at the Canadian Embassy located at 501 Pennsylvania Avenue, and we were briefed about the embassy's role in Foreign Policy and Canada's place in the world.

Wednesday.
On Wednesday, it was another unique moment for me and other peace makers or scholars interested in peace issues to visit the United States Insititute for Peace (USIP) at 1200 17th Street NW where I had lenghty discussions with senior USIP staff at the institution regarding the situation of peace in Sierra Leone and my colleagues and I was also briefed about the role of the Institute in promoting peace globally. We were also told that 'The Peace insititute is an independent institution established by Congress to strengthen the nation's capacity to promote peaceful resolution to international conflicts.

Belief In:
'Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights and freedoms. In its very first session in 1946, before any human rights declarations or treaties had been adopted, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 59(I) stating "Freedom of information is a fundamental human right and ... the touchstone of all the freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated."
Other Contributions,
Quotes, Commendations and Awards:
Aureal Writers Club Awards 1996
James B. Boskey Memorial Fresh Faces Awards, 2000
Goi Peace Foundation Essay Writing Awards 2000
Cable and Wireless Childnet awards 2003
Bremen Peace Commendation -Threshold Foundation Germany 2003
Beyond Borders Listen Up Awards 2003
Sauve Scholars Awards 2004
Global junior Challenge Awards 2007
In addition Greene was on the shortlist for the 'digital Visions Fellows' at Stanford University california USA.

Interviews With Tele-Quebec Canada - POINTS CHAUDS - ENFANTS SOLDATS

2009-02-27T11:12:00.000-08:00

CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY, MONTREAL QUEBEC CANADA: Lecture Series and Presentation at the 400 Hundred Level, Joint Sociology and Anthropology Class

2009-02-19T11:08:00.000-08:00

Sauvé Scholar, Mr. Andrew Benson Greene gave a presentation on Tuesday March 17th 2005 at Concordia University, Montreal, Quebec Canada. The Class, a 400 level joint Sociology and Anthropology course called Peace Building, Development and Human Rights was presided over by the Lecturer Professor Homa Hoodfar, Professor of Anthropology, Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Concordia University. The course covered various countries from around the world, examining the factors that led to the Civil war, the effects of civil war, and the process of working towards peace. During his lectures, Andrew Greene examined the situation in Sierra Leone, beefing up the understand of the students that had basic understanding of the various contributing factors, actors and attempts at peace building in his country Sierra Leone. His speech and discussions on war and peace building were appreciated as an added vantage point to the whole gamut of discussions, and also gave a valuable perspective, enabling the students as well as the Professor to learn a lot from his insight.

This visit was made possible through the Founding Director Jim Wright, and the class for which Andrew Benson Greene's presence was solicited is in the CL building at 1665 St. Catherine Street W. and the talk was a 20-30 minutes presentation followed by question time.

Founder's Vision

2009-01-28T10:16:00.000-08:00

Cable and Wireless Childnet Awards

2009-01-28T08:29:00.000-08:00

In April, 2003, Andrew Benson Greene was honored at the annual ChildNet Awards in London, U.K. for his contribution to the website project, Peace and Reconciliation. The website received second place in the "New to the Net" category. The mission of the website project was honored for its empowerment of war-affected youth in allowing them to connect to the outside world.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/2983011.stm

In receiving the Awards at the Science Museum in London April 2003, Andrew Greene noted that "Young people who have faced years of unprecedented violence now become active promoters of peace in their local communities while at the same time, thinking globally through learning the magic of the web and Internet to share with peers that peace can change the world".

In an exclusive BBC interview with Tracy Logan at the BBC Studios in London 2003 and in the company of Award Judge Larry Magid a syndicated technology columnist and broadcaster for more than two decades, whose contributes include CBS News, the New York Times, San Jose Mercury News USA,
Andrew remarked "...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.

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 Prime Minister Tony Blair: " 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

" The work Andrew has prioneered in Sierra Leone is outstanding and worthy of far greater recognition. Childnet International in UK has funded Andrew's projects through the Childnet Academy program which seeks to reward young people who are using the internet for social benefit internationally. In 2003, Childnet brought Andrew and the youth of Sierra Leone to London to recieve his award and meet with the other winners from around the world. This award was presented for Andrew's Peace and reconcilaition project, which grew out of his ground-breaking child soldiers project which Andrew developed directly with young victims of the conflict in Sierra Leone. The awards included training and a grant of UK Pounds 2000. since winning the awards, Andrew has been working on 3 significant areas of development and has continued to develop his project basis as well as his professional studies and training. (a) Setting up fully equipped computers ICt club for peace education in Freetown, developed through the Ministry of Youth and Sports. Andrew was able to source 20 computers initially from computer Aid International in UK with assistance from Childnet. This centre which he steadfastly coordinated supported over 30 youth every week and is meeting the demand for ICT training, youth activities and psychosolcial needs. All work done in the centre was on a volunteer basis and Andrew had to subsidize his management of this project on a shoe-string budget and by working part-time at the Sierra leone educational sector training ICT. (b) Developing further Satelite Centres in Bo District), and in Kono Eastern District. With further assistance and donation from Computer Aid in UK and World Computer exchange, Andrew and his small team of University volunteers and students in Sierra Leone have been able to pilot the development of two additional computer ICt centres with 15 work stattions each at these centres. initial demand was high and the centres are proving essencial resource in rehabilitating youth who till date have been caught up in the conflict of Sierra Leone. There is no other effective non-profit ICT training centre for young people in Sierra Leone and these areas which have proven to be badly hit by a decade of war. (c) Creating International development) and the understanding of the problems faced by child soldiers over the last 10 years. Andrew have been recognized as a Young dynamic leader within his country and beyond. He has represented Sierra Leone at the geneva World Summit on Information Society, (WSIS), and the first World Ethics Forum for Leadership and Integrity in Oxford England. This work included sharing his experience of developing ICT resources, (Both online and offline) in areas where there is conflict. This has helped shaped policy and is used as a powerful case study in in other countries affected by war. See example http://www.ourmedia.org/node/3490 (d) further professional and education training at McGill University Canada. Andrew was chosen by the Sauve scholars program which brings 12 to 14 young leaders from all over the world for a year's research programme to help them enlarge their understanding of the world and make positive contributions to their own countries. During this year of study, Andrew has been fortunate to work directly with institutions in teachning peace education in local schools in canada (WH Day Elementary School) and Europe (International School of Amsterdam). This training has helped Andrew reflect on the strategic priorities as he goes back to Sierra Leone and consider the opportunities to use ICT and expand the work in Sierra Leone but also develop online resources to be able to better challenge young people and seniors around the world on the issues of child solders.

Andrew has used his knowledge, gifts and skills to develop an exiting program which can be built upon and which we believe make a real and lasting impact in the lives of thousands of young people both in Sierra Leone and worldwide.
Andrew have produced a short video whilst at McGill University in Canada on the challenges of child soldiers and the need to stop the use of child soldiers. The educational and intervention work which Andrew is developing through the ICT Computer clubs, gives children a unique opportunity to transform their lives and learn about peace activism. the video poverfully demonstrates this, and shows the initial success in reaching youth s. We will like you to review what practical assistance you might be able to offer to ensure that Andrew's work grows. Working with limited resources, this young pioneer has proven he can make and create both powerful and award winning interner projects, but equally important, develop off line clubs and facilities to young people who are now being trainied in ICT. As he can link young people in schools through the internet and video resources, with other youths in those computer clubs, we will encourage others to support this initiative as a potential model which could be replicated by other young people and organizations around the world. let's work to support Andrew as he develops his locally owned and directed initiative which will have the power to impact the lives of thousands of young people for good going forward. (STEVEN GARRICK DAVIES) CEO CHILDNET UK

http://www.sauvescholars.org/en/scholars/alumni/2004

2009-01-18T13:44:00.000-08:00

Belief In:
'Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights and freedoms. In its very first session in 1946, before any human rights declarations or treaties had been adopted, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 59(I) stating "Freedom of information is a fundamental human right and ... the touchstone of all the freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated."
Other Contributions,
Quotes, Commendations and Awards:
Aureal Writers Club Awards 1996
James B. Boskey Memorial Fresh Faces Awards, 2000
Goi Peace Foundation Essay Writing Awards 2000
Cable and Wireless Childnet awards 2003
Bremen Peace Commendation -Threshold Foundation Germany 2003
Beyond Borders Listen Up Awards 2003
Sauve Scholars Awards 2004
Global junior Challenge Awards 2007
In addition Greene was on the shortlist for the 'digital Visions Fellows' at Stanford University california USA.

2008-12-16T11:41:00.000-08:00

Belief In:
'Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights and freedoms. In its very first session in 1946, before any human rights declarations or treaties had been adopted, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 59(I) stating "Freedom of information is a fundamental human right and ... the touchstone of all the freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated."
Other Contributions,
Quotes, Commendations and Awards:
International Open Poetry Competition (Maryland USA 1995 for the poem title: 'My Teenage', published in the Anthology "Echoes of Yesterday'.
Aureal Writers Club Awards 1996
James B. Boskey Memorial Fresh Faces Awards, 2000
Goi Peace Foundation Essay Writing Awards 2000
Cable and Wireless Childnet awards 2003
Bremen Peace Commendation -Threshold Foundation Germany 2003
Beyond Borders Listen Up Awards 2003
Sauve Scholars Awards 2004
Global junior Challenge Awards 2007
In addition Greene was on the shortlist for the 'digital Visions Fellows' at Stanford University California USA.

Contribution to the : Canadian Bureau for International Education

2008-12-13T12:25:00.000-08:00

Other Contributions,
Quotes, Commendations and Awards:
Aureal Writers Club Awards 1996
James B. Boskey Memorial Fresh Faces Awards, 2000
Goi Peace Foundation Essay Writing Awards 2000
Cable and Wireless Childnet awards 2003
Bremen Peace Commendation -Threshold Foundation Germany 2003
Beyond Borders Listen Up Awards 2003
Sauve Scholars Awards 2004
Global junior Challenge Awards 2007
In addition Greene was on the shortlist for the 'digital Visions Fellows' at Stanford University california USA.

Founder's Vision

2008-11-22T09:00:00.000-08:00

+Silicon Valley - Introductory Quote and Excerpt from Prepared Stanford Speech (San Francisco 2008+)

2008-11-01T09:10:00.000-07:00

"Silicon Valley is an area that is 'located on the San Francisco, California, peninsula, radiates outward from Stanford University. It is contained by the San Francisco Bay on the east, the Santa Cruz Mountains on the west, and the Coast Range to the southeast. At the turn of the century, when fruit orchards predominated, the area was known as the Valley of Heart's Delight"

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
"Good evening students of Stanford University, the Association of Stanford Speakers, those who have practically been there, working tirelessly behind the scenes to make my coming here possible; Dawn a senior at Stanford, Carrie, and my wonderful and incredibly host Peter, it is with my utmost thanks and appreciation that I stand here with the opportunity you have granted me to inspire students of Stanford to make a difference by being proactive in the use of technology to promote human rights, peace building and development work around the world. Additionally, I believe that this galaxy of students here, who will take up the mantle of leadership, shall work shoulder to shoulder with me in realizing my future goals and dreams.

Finding out that I was right at the ‘Silicon Valley’ the melting pot of technology, much as America is the diffusion of a homogeneous society, you can imagine how transformational these moments have all been for me. I get a sense that this is truly the home of new and brave technological innovation that is changing lives around the world. This is clearly a fascinating moment for me. For someone who lives at the ebb of the World Economic Index, where technology is still a far cry, and where my experiences with using lower tech and lower 'specs tech', slower computers actually made some real difference. My head whirls at the magic of it all as I see the speed of it happening here. In fact just a few days ago at a family evening dinner, in which I was invited, I was privileged to meet one of the co-founders of the Voice Recognition software. It is all happening here. Yet, in my own humble way, I have used every ounce of my energy to demonstrate that technology can help in improving the quality of life. 'This is what has been finely put as the Dot-hope effect'!

I am here tonight not to only regale you with stories of my past involvement, but to traverse with you along the path to future goals, not to only showcase my inspirational stories of how I managed to use technology to heal lives, overleap challenging moments, but as a great vehicle and tool for upholding human rights tenets through sharing of knowledge."

'Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights'

2008-10-31T12:47:00.001-07:00

Belief In:
'Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights and freedoms. In its very first session in 1946, before any human rights declarations or treaties had been adopted, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 59(I) stating "Freedom of information is a fundamental human right and ... the touchstone of all the freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated."

Early Activism

2008-10-20T21:54:00.000-07:00

Life Story as a Youth

Andrew Benson Greene, Jr. was born and raised in Sierra Leone. Born in Kailahun in Eastern Sierra Leone, he moved with his family and parents to Kabala in the North where he started his early Primary or Elementary education and later went on to Magburaka in the Upper Northern township, where he completed his Elementary School. He left his parents at a young age of 10 and bravely traveled to the Southern Head district of Bo, where he started his High School. As a student in an all-boys boarding school, (The Bo Government Secondary School) he rose to the position of a School Prefect of Education. He was also part of his School's Drama Group where he acted the hilarious but didactic short play 'Bombastic Johnson', and was part of the Play 'Our Husband has gone Mad Again'. He was a pioneer and columnist for the 'Satellite Press' box in his school, where he wrote about social issues about life in his boarding school, spiced with drawings and cartoons. At such tender age, he has begun his life long quest to end violence. The Civil war in Sierra Leone resulted in the separation of about 12,000 children from their families, boys and girls as young as seven were kidnapped and forced to become soldiers. Greene fled to neighboring Guinea where he taught English and literature to displaced children and refugees. There he joined the Campaign for Good Governance Democracy and Human Rights programs, helping in the production of a range of advocacy materials for peace-building and the restoration of democracy in Sierra Leone. He was also a member and 'Cultural Officer of the world Peace Prayer Society Sierra Leone working closely with Friends Teddy Foday Musa and Bockarie Enssah in the peace movement in the late 1990s. He also served as Board Secretary for Defense for Children International in Sierra Leone in the early 2000's and previously served as volunteer with the Peace Child project and Peace Links in Sierra Leone in the use of online interaction for peac initiative building.

Life Story as an Adult

He decided to dedicate his life to serving and teaching children who were brutalized by the violence all around them. He was secretary general of his college's Student Union between 1996-1998. He graduated from Fourah Bay College University of Sierra Leone in 1998 with concentrattions in English Civil Law and International Relations. During his college years, Greene's writings were frequently featured by the BBC in which he talked about 'Freedom of Movement Under the new civilian government'. The rewards and financial compensation of his writing efforts by the BBC were used to tackle the challenges at 'Mount Aureal'. Here is one of his favourite Quotes in his short talk writing contracts to the BBC read by BBC Producer Tom Porteous:
"On a sunny afternoon a couple of days ago, I decided to follow a group of pedestrians who were walking along the once prohibited route leading to the 'State House' here in the heart of Freetown. I felt a great sense of relief when I discovered that this route is now accessible to the general public. But the faces of some of the people I walk along with, seem to refect the recent past, prior to the dawn of democracy when it was an offence for any unauthorized persons to ply this route. Even my feet felt heavy as if huge bags of sand were tired around my legs, or someone was yelling at me, or trying to shove a gun at me or maybe kick me with heavy boots. But the sentries that used to guide the route with menacing looks are no longer there. As people began to laugh and speak with chirpy voices, this showed me that, 'Freedom of Movement is here, and this is a good symbol of democracy. But what about freedom movement throughout my entire country. I felt that this will soon be achieved now that the RUF have declared a cease fire. I want Sierra Leoneans to be able to move freely all over the country in the way civilians and I felt when we peacefully strolled along the route, leading to 'States House' here in the heart of Freetown.

Since 1999, Greene joined the non-profit International Educational And Resource Network that enable young people to use the Internet and other new technologies to engage in collaborative educational projects. He served as a volunteer educator in Sierra Leone Projects for many years, where he worked tirelessly to locate resources so that children can communicate with others throughout the world. 'We are proud of our accomplishments so far', he once said, ...'but we remain in dire need of financial support to strengthen our programmatic activities, train our youth, and give them a voice through the power of the Internet.' At a BBC Interview by Tracy Logan 'Go Digital Technology' in UK, he reflected on the 'cathartic effect' of young people using technology in post conflict sierra Leone. He was also featured by Tele-Quebec Canada on a TV series that was showcased around the world.

Andrew Benson Greene is available as a Speaker

2008-10-20T21:27:00.000-07:00

Andrew Benson Greene is available as a speaker on the following themes: 'Child Soldiers, Peace Building and conflict resolution, Human Rights, youth challenges, Light weaponry, African Terrorism, Information COmmunication Technology in education (ICT).

'The Child Soldiers Simulation Exercise,' Ghana July 2007

2008-10-19T13:17:00.000-07:00

Andrew speaking having a tet-a-tet with (Ret) Lieutenant-General The Honourable Romeo Dallaire in Accra Ghana for the support of his initiative. It was no coincidence that the two could meet eachother earlier in Canada at the Peel District School Board Conference (Leadership in Action for Education Conference) in Ottawa in 2004, The International Coorperations Days in Ottawa, and later in 2005 at the African Now Un-Told Stories Conference.

July 16-20, 2007Child Soldiers Initiative, Ghana Andrew Benson Greene, an expert on the issue of Child Soldiers, is a key player at
'The Child Soldiers Simulation Exercise,' named "Exercise Prodigal Child." The program is led by (Ret) Lieutenant-General The Honourable Romeo Dallaire together with UNICEF Canada President and CEO Nigel Fisher. A tight and seasoned group of 55 participants from around the world from a variety of disciplines, two of whom are themselves former child soldiers, will explore this critical issue at the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Center in Ghana.Participants of the Child Soldiers Simulation Exercise are given scenarios for which they will develop realistic and plausible solutions to many of the issues related to the use of children as soldiers. The exercise takes place in a hypothetical African conflict zone. The Child Soldier Initiative (CSI) was founded in August 2006 brining together representatives from civil society, international humanitarian organizations, the legal community, the military and academia. Partners in the Child Soldier Initiative include Search for Common Ground, UNICEF Canada, USAID's Displaced Children and Orphans Fund, the Pearson Peacekeeping Centre in Canada and the Office of Canadian Senator Romeo Dallaire.

Belief: 'Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights and freedoms. In its very first session in 1946, before any human rights declarations or treaties had been adopted, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 59(I) stating "Freedom of information is a fundamental human right and ... the touchstone of all the freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated." Other Contributions,

Kenyon College, Gambier, Ohio, USA and Nazarene University St. Vermon USA March 2007

2008-10-18T13:15:00.000-07:00
WAR IS NOT A CHILD'S PLAY!
Topic: 'Children of the Crossfore'

March 29, 2007Kenyon College, Gambier, Ohio, USA"Children of the Crossfire" Lecture Mohamed Sidibay, a 14-year-old student of Sierra Leone was a Guest Spaker at the Kenyon College in Gaier, Ohio USA. He spoke on the theme 'Children of the Crossfire'. Mohamed Sidibay was 10 years old when he was forced to fight in Sierra Leone's decade-long war. Since his involvement in educational programs in SL, he has been the hero of the movie entitled "We Don't Want No War" which won the organization a production award from Listen Up in New York, USA. In addition, he was involved in a series of short stories from around the world called Beyond Borders 'Personal Stories from a small Planet'. At Kenyon College, Mohamed Sidibay presented several of his personal poems which also reflect first hand experiences about a child caught up in war. He and Andrew Greene spoke on the issue of child soldiers at nearby Nazarene University in Mount Vermon, Ohio.
Belief: 'Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights and freedoms. In its very first session in 1946, before any human rights declarations or treaties had been adopted, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 59(I) stating "Freedom of information is a fundamental human right and ... the touchstone of all the freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated." Other Contributions,

Education Without Borders February 2007

2008-10-17T15:44:00.000-07:00

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'. Facililitator: 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. www.ewb2007.hct.ac.ae
Belief: 'Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights and freedoms. In its very first session in 1946, before any human rights declarations or treaties had been adopted, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 59(I) stating "Freedom of information is a fundamental human right and ... the touchstone of all the freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated." Other Contributions,

Grover Cleveland High School, Los Angeles July 2006

2008-10-16T12:46:00.000-07:00

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
Belief: 'Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights and freedoms. In its very first session in 1946, before any human rights declarations or treaties had been adopted, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 59(I) stating "Freedom of information is a fundamental human right and ... the touchstone of all the freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated." Other Contributions,

Oxford, UK - April 2006 Oxford University World Ethics Forum

2008-10-15T20:27:00.000-07:00

Oxford, UK - April 2006 Oxford University World Ethics Forum
In April 2006, Andrew participated in the first-ever World Ethics Forum Joint Conference, “Leadership, Ethics, and Integrity in Public Life.” This joint conference hosted The International Institute for Public Ethics (IIPE), The Global Integrity Alliance, and the World Bank at Keble College, University of Oxford, UK. The purpose of this conference was to convene officials and advisors to national, sub-national and international governments, business professionals, scholars, ethics practitioners, civil society activists, academics, and public officials to reflect, facilitate and support critical thinking about the praxis of public ethics, to expose applied lessons about democratic governance processes and to help rebuild a sustainable future for an ethics culture.
Belief: 'Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights and freedoms. In its very first session in 1946, before any human rights declarations or treaties had been adopted, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 59(I) stating "Freedom of information is a fundamental human right and ... the touchstone of all the freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated." Other Contributions,

2008-10-14T11:42:00.000-07:00

Speak To Us Of Children

And a woman who held a babe against her bosom said,
Speak to us of Children.
And he said:
Your children are not your children.
They are the sons and daughters of Life's longing for itself.
They come through you but not from you,
And though they are with you yet they belong not to you.
You may give them your love but not your thoughts,
For they have their own thoughts.
You may house their bodies but not their souls,
For their souls dwell in the house of tomorrow,
Which you cannot visit, not even in your dreams.
You may strive to be like them, but seek not to make them like you.
For life goes not backward nor tarries with yesterday.
You are the bows from which your children as living
arrows are sent forth.
The archer sees the mark upon the path of the infinite,
and He bends you with His might that His arrows may go swift and far.
Let your bending in the Archer's hand be for gladness;
For even as He loves the arrow that flies,
so He loves also the bow that is stable.

From The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran.
Belief: 'Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights and freedoms. In its very first session in 1946, before any human rights declarations or treaties had been adopted, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 59(I) stating "Freedom of information is a fundamental human right and ... the touchstone of all the freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated." Other Contributions,

'Speak to us of children'

2008-10-14T11:33:00.000-07:00

Belief: 'Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights and freedoms. In its very first session in 1946, before any human rights declarations or treaties had been adopted, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 59(I) stating "Freedom of information is a fundamental human right and ... the touchstone of all the freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated." Other Contributions,

Building A Culture Of Peace And Non-violence for the children Of The World - Washington DC

2008-05-19T13:43:00.001-07:00
After The Conference: Building A Culture Of Peace And Non-violence for the children Of The World - Washington DC 2005, I had the opportunity to make various site visits with my friend Leigh Anne around the White House and several Monuments, including the Lincoln Memorial Hall.

Belief: 'Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights and freedoms. In its very first session in 1946, before any human rights declarations or treaties had been adopted, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 59(I) stating "Freedom of information is a fundamental human right and ... the touchstone of all the freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated." Other Contributions,

Building a Culture of Peace For The Children Of The World (WASHINGTON DC USA) '-- This article was contributed by Sarika Jain

2008-05-19T13:43:00.000-07:00

Building a Culture of Peace For The Children Of The World '-- This article was contributed by Sarika Jain,WBIFP'
Reintegrating Children of War

On March 7th, 2005, Mohini Bhatia and I attended an exhibition titled Building a Culture of Peace for the Children of the World?, sponsored by HDCNY, where we met Andrew Benson Greene, the founder of IEARN Sierra Leone. We were struck not only by his youth, but his dogged determination to provide a positive outlet for young victims in Sierra Leone who are recovering from the traumatic ravages of war, through his organization.Andrew knows only too well the stories of the children he helps reintegrate, for he has been there himself. He tells us, Amidst Sierra Leone's stunning natural beauty, youth were ravaged through battle-fields and wars as child soldiers. Re-integrating them is a major challenge... offers youth a chance to build communications and technology skills to compete in today's infotechnology world. Technology helps to connect war affected youth of Sierra Leone with peers around the world as they strive to elicit the human rights violations that face war affected children. Through this unique sharing experience, trust and life skills are gained which enable our youth to become global citizens". We were moved and felt compelled to share Andrew's story and the story of the children he works so tirelessly for, with our fellow youth at the Bank.
by Sarika Jain,WBIFP'

Extra information
http://www.un.org/events/UNART/culturepeacegallery/index.html

United Nations Annual Exhibit, "Building a Culture of Peace for the Children of the World" Mr. Andrew Greene was featured in this UN exhibit in 2004 and was privileged to view it in 2005.

This exhibit illustrates the importance of building a culture of peace at all levels and across geographical lines. The exhibit highlights the work of a dozen people famous for their role in conflict resolution, while showcasing the essays and artwork of children who are destined to inherit this task. Click here to see the entire 2005

In DC Andrew also had the chance to visit several places with colleague scholars such as the United States Institute of Peace, Lincoln Memorial Hall, and House of Senate amongst others.
Belief: 'Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights and freedoms. In its very first session in 1946, before any human rights declarations or treaties had been adopted, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 59(I) stating "Freedom of information is a fundamental human right and ... the touchstone of all the freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated." Other Contributions,

Leadership in Action for education Conference Toronto

2008-04-25T23:11:00.000-07:00

Andrew and (Ret) Lieutenant-General The Honourable Romeo Dallaire in Toronto at the Leadership in Action for Education Conference 2004. This conference was presented by Peel District School Board in partnership with OSSTF-District 19 and ETFO-Peel. It was produced with the support of the Government of Canada through the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA).

On November 22, 2004 the board hosted Leaders in Action for Education a special conference for grade 7 to 12 teachers and students—a unique opportunity to learn together!

At this conference, Lieutenant-General Roméo Dallaire spoke about the importance of learning more about war-affected children and leadership. Participants also had the chance for group discussion and networking.

This one-day conference attracted 450 grade 7 to 12 educators and students—75 of them were teachers.
The conference focused on the impact of war on children and education. The purpose was to share ideas and resources with teachers and to provide more opportunities for students to develop leadership skills.

The objective was also to raise student and teacher awareness about their place in the world and their level of responsibility for affecting change to assist war-affected children, specifically in Sierra Leone. They attended practical workshops, developed ideas to take back to their schools, and received ready-made resources.
The workshops were facilitated by:
Canadian Feed the Children
Canadian Red Cross
Leaders Today/Kids Can Free the Children
UNICEF Canada
War Child Canada
World Vision Canada
Many of these organizations also provided resources for educators through displays set up in the lobby of the conference site.
At the registration desk, each participant received a conference bag containing resources to help participants implement or supplement global development lessons or activities in their classroom.
International themes discussed under the general theme of war-affected children
The following is a brief list of the international themes and topics discussed under the general topic of war-affected children at the conference:
children living and growing up in a war zone
voices of two refugees from Sierra Leone
awareness and involvement concerning the humanitarian crisis of war-affected children in Sierra Leone
displaced children
the importance of youth involvement
child soldiers, rehabilitating child soldiers
children brought into war in non-combat roles such as cooks, porters and messengers, girls forced to be “sex-slaves” to soldiers or to marry them
the effects of war on children, particularly regarding education
teaching children how to solve conflicts without using violence
emphasis on conflicts in Bosnia, Rwanda, Sierra Leone
Belief: 'Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights and freedoms. In its very first session in 1946, before any human rights declarations or treaties had been adopted, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 59(I) stating "Freedom of information is a fundamental human right and ... the touchstone of all the freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated." Other Contributions,

La Fontaine-Baldwin conference Quebec Canada March 4-5 2005

2008-04-25T14:26:00.000-07:00

March 1, 2005
2004/5 Sauve Scholars Andrew Benson Greene and Angele Pancreas, were attracted to La Fontaine-Baldwin conference that took place from March 4-5 2005, and went to Quebec City to listen to the interesting debates.
Read the information about La Fontaine-Baldwin conference.

QUEBEC CITY – The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Louise Arbour will launch this year's LaFontaine-Baldwin Conference at Le Capitole de Québec in Quebec City with a lecture on Friday, March 4, 2005, entitled 'Freedom from want: from charity to entitlement'.
The LaFontaine-Baldwin Symposium was created by His Excellency John Ralston Saul to encourage discussions around the future shape of Canada's civic culture. Named in honour of 19th-century political reformers Louis-Hippolyte LaFontaine and Robert Baldwin, the symposium, an annual event organized by the Dominion Institute, examines the interplay of Canadian history and contemporary values.
"Freedom of expression may well be a right but homeless people are still dying on the street," said John Ralston Saul. "Louise Arbour is forcing us to look at the core of today's debate on social justice."
The lecture will be delivered on Friday, March 4, 2005, at 7:30 p.m. in the Cabaret room of Le Capitole de Québec in Quebec City. A panel made up of Louise Arbour, John Ralston Saul and Thomas De Koninck, philosopher and Chair of – "Philosophy in Today's World" (La philosophie dans le monde actuel) at Laval University will discuss the issues raised in the lecture. RDI television journalist Michaëlle Jean will moderate the discussion and a question and answer session with the audience.
Dominion Institute executive director, Rudyard Griffiths, states:
It is our hope that the symposium captures a sense of the political and intellectual risk-taking of its namesakes: Louis Hippolyte-LaFontaine and Robert Baldwin. In Ms. Arbour, we once again have a powerful mind to lead the symposium and challenge us to reflect on the assumptions we have about the reality and future of our democracy.
Belief: 'Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights and freedoms. In its very first session in 1946, before any human rights declarations or treaties had been adopted, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 59(I) stating "Freedom of information is a fundamental human right and ... the touchstone of all the freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated." Other Contributions,

Dakar, Senegal- July 17-23, 2005

2008-04-25T12:29:00.000-07:00

Dakar, Senegal- July 17-23, 2005

The 12th International iEARN Conference: "Connecting people for better education" For the 12th annual International iEARN Conference, iEARN was honoured to have the patronage of president of Senegal, His Excellency Abdoulaye Wade, his wife, Mrs Viviane Wade, and the Minister of Education, Moustapha Sourang. The government of Senegal attached great importance to this conference, held in Dakar from 17 – 23 July 2005, which mobilized many ministries and NGOs. The advantages of participation in a global forum became obvious during conference week when people from around the world come together face-to-face to exchange ideas and share their experiences on projects they had worked on during the previous year. Such interaction at the annual IEARN conference encourages the sharing of experience among learners all over the world and leads to greater understanding. Participation in the conference helped promote the project-based learning program initiated in iEARN Senegal, which has proved very successful so far. The hosting of this conference by iEARN Senegal helped develop capacity, sensitise, and promote national awareness. The objectives of this project were to encourage African participation in a global forum and involve as many African teachers as possible. The conference was an opportunity to conduct research on the variety of online professional development courses used by teachers, African teachers in particular. The choice of the conference theme urged stakeholders to provide African teachers with online development courses and thus implement project-based learning nationwide. The conference was attended by iEARN Sierra Leone delegates Memunatu Barrie, Franklyn Koroma, Emile Toby, and their Director, Andrew Greene, Jr.
Belief: 'Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights and freedoms. In its very first session in 1946, before any human rights declarations or treaties had been adopted, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 59(I) stating "Freedom of information is a fundamental human right and ... the touchstone of all the freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated." Other Contributions,

Untold Stories

2008-04-25T12:28:00.001-07:00

African Now untold Stories: the Minister of International Cooperation
Aileen carol

Andrew Benson Greene and Ken Wiwa of the Globe and Mail

The Speakers

Andrew Benson Greene Was Part of the International Young Professional Speakers at the conference in Canada in 2005
Belief: 'Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights and freedoms. In its very first session in 1946, before any human rights declarations or treaties had been adopted, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 59(I) stating "Freedom of information is a fundamental human right and ... the touchstone of all the freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated." Other Contributions,

African Now Untold Stories

2008-04-25T12:28:00.000-07:00
Allan Rock - Andrew Benson Greene

Belief: 'Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights and freedoms. In its very first session in 1946, before any human rights declarations or treaties had been adopted, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 59(I) stating "Freedom of information is a fundamental human right and ... the touchstone of all the freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated." Other Contributions,

Africa-Now Untold Stories Conference March 2005

2008-04-25T12:27:00.000-07:00

Andrew Benson Greene Sierra Leone was a speaker at "Africa Now: Untold Stories".

The Canada Fund for Africa, CIDA, and Carleton University's School of Journalism and Communication, hosted the conference on March 11 and 12, 2005, entitled "Africa Now: Untold Stories".
The conference brought together young Africans and Canadians, media practitioners and development experts working on the continent to provide their perspectives on some of the most difficult challenges facing African youth today: HIV/AIDS, the environment, war-affected youth, and childhood development in refugee camps. The conference also examined the role of the media in reporting on these issues. The keynote speaker was Lt.-Gen. (retired) Roméo Dallaire, Fellow at the Carr Center for Human Rights Policy, Harvard University. Moderators and panellists include:
Allan Thompson, Associate Professor, Carleton School of Journalism and Communication;
Alexandre Trudeau, Journalist, Documentary Filmmaker and Chair of the Board of Canada World Youth; and Ken Wiwa, Globe and Mail columnist.
The audience were invited to participate in question and answer sessions with speakers and panellists. The forum was also open to the public and attendance was free. The forum ensured that there were feature exhibits.
Africa Now: Untold Stories Conference
Time: Friday, March 11, 3:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.Saturday, March 12, 2005, 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Place: Carleton UniversityBell Theatre, Minto Centre1125 Colonel By DriveOttawa, Ontario
Belief: 'Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights and freedoms. In its very first session in 1946, before any human rights declarations or treaties had been adopted, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 59(I) stating "Freedom of information is a fundamental human right and ... the touchstone of all the freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated." Other Contributions,

McGill Model United Nations 2005

2008-04-25T12:24:00.000-07:00

Sauve Scholar Andrew Benson Greene was invited as a Guest Speaker by the McGill Model United Nations (McMUN) in Motreal Canada. Andrew spoke on the issues of children's rights and the optional protocol, with special reference to his programs in Sierra Leone that help children and youth affected by the war.

The club's organizational chops are respected by sister organizations across the continent. The annual McGill Model United Nations Assembly (McMUN) is generally considered to be "the best of its kind in Canada and among the top three in North America," says political science student Christopher Popowycz, the public relations director for McMUN.
Belief: 'Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights and freedoms. In its very first session in 1946, before any human rights declarations or treaties had been adopted, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 59(I) stating "Freedom of information is a fundamental human right and ... the touchstone of all the freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated." Other Contributions,

War is Not a Child's Play- Benefit Concert -Campus-wide Fundraising

2008-04-25T12:23:00.002-07:00

After years of successfully pioneering the wonderful online initiatve 'No war Zone' in Sierra Leone, Andrew was also keen in promoting this cause internationally. The No war Zone is a significant initiative Funded By War Child and Foreign Affairs Canada. As a research Scholar, he helped students in fund-raising campus-wide benefit concerts at McGill.

No War Zone is a War Child Canada initiative that provides meaningful opportunities for youth from all around the globe to become effective voices in support of human rights and global issues through a growing and dynamic on line network.

Through the No War Zone website you have the chance to connect with your peers around the world. No War Zone will allow you to create your own portfolio, which will include your biography, your interests, and information about your community. You will have the chance to learn about others in this online community through discussion boards, portfolios, artwork, poetry, creative writing and articles on issues of global concern.
Belief: 'Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights and freedoms. In its very first session in 1946, before any human rights declarations or treaties had been adopted, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 59(I) stating "Freedom of information is a fundamental human right and ... the touchstone of all the freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated." Other Contributions,

Teaching Peace At Bradford Ontario

2008-04-25T12:23:00.001-07:00

Andrew Greene was invited by Anita Townsend, and Jim Carleton, in 2004 to teach peace to children at the WH Day School in Bradford Ontario. During the three days period he shared the peace about his country, the child soldiers project and showed the children Sierra Leone's customs and custumes.
Belief: 'Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights and freedoms. In its very first session in 1946, before any human rights declarations or treaties had been adopted, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 59(I) stating "Freedom of information is a fundamental human right and ... the touchstone of all the freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated." Other Contributions,

Teaching Peace Bradford Ontario, Canada

2008-04-25T12:23:00.000-07:00

News from the school Newsletter on November 12, 2004
WH DAY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL "JUST BETWEEN US"...NETWORK OF INNOVATIVE
SCHOOLS (SCHOOLNET)

VISITOR FROM SIERRA LEONE

All of our students had
the opportunity to talk to and hear about Andrew Greene's work with
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 also able to speak at the Remembrance Day assembly. As
a Sauvé Scholar at McGill university he has the opportunity to meet
with people in Canadian Government departments, private business and
other support agencies from around the world that are trying to
promote peace. He is one of twelve people from different countries
that were granted this 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.
Belief: 'Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights and freedoms. In its very first session in 1946, before any human rights declarations or treaties had been adopted, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 59(I) stating "Freedom of information is a fundamental human right and ... the touchstone of all the freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated." Other Contributions,

Ottawa, Canada - Nov 2004 International Cooperation Days (ICD)

2008-04-25T12:12:00.005-07:00

Ottawa, Canada - Nov 2004 International Cooperation Days (ICD)

Ottawa, Canada - Nov 2004 International Cooperation Days (ICD) 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.

Belief: 'Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights and freedoms. In its very first session in 1946, before any human rights declarations or treaties had been adopted, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 59(I) stating "Freedom of information is a fundamental human right and ... the touchstone of all the freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated." Other Contributions,

Ottawa - ICD

2008-04-25T12:12:00.004-07:00

Belief: 'Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights and freedoms. In its very first session in 1946, before any human rights declarations or treaties had been adopted, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 59(I) stating "Freedom of information is a fundamental human right and ... the touchstone of all the freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated." Other Contributions,

International Corporaration Days Hosted By CIDA and the ministry Of International Coorperations Canada

2008-04-25T12:12:00.003-07:00

Belief: 'Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights and freedoms. In its very first session in 1946, before any human rights declarations or treaties had been adopted, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 59(I) stating "Freedom of information is a fundamental human right and ... the touchstone of all the freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated." Other Contributions,

Canadian Bureau for International Education November 15th 2004

2008-04-25T12:12:00.002-07:00

On Day 2 of Monday, November 15th 2004, Andrew Benson Greene was again summoned to participate at the CBIE conference. The Welcoming Remarks was given by Dr. Robert Turner, Chair of the Board (SI). The conference theme was ' International Development: A Whole New World (SI)'.

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 (SI)
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. In August 2002 she was appointed to her current position as Chairperson of the Afghan Human Rights Commission. Dr. Samar is a pre-eminent advocate for the rights and needs of women in developing countries. A medical doctor and educator, during the oppressive Taliban rule, she personally established schools catering to girls and managed to keep them operating. Dr. Samar will review the progress being made in Afghanistan, the continued challenges, and what the world can do to support the country's ongoing democratic development.

Andrew also had the opportunity to participate at the 'Networking Lunch and CBIE Awards' where he got to know colleagues over lunch: newcomers were seated with CBIE Board Members who filled particpants in on CBIE programs and services.

The Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE) is a national, bilingual, not-for-profit, membership organization dedicated to the promotion of Canada's international relations through international education: the free movement of ideas and learners across national boundaries. CBIE's activities comprise scholarship management, civil society and public sector reform, research and information services, advocacy, training programs, professional development for international educators and other services for members and learners.

CBIE promotes the special interests of the international learner, both the foreign national studying in Canada and the Canadian studying abroad, through educational exchanges, scholarships, training awards and internships, technical assistance in education and other related services.

CBIE believes that international education is one of the best ways to create understanding among peoples and to develop enduring political, cultural and economic links among nations.

Belief: 'Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights and freedoms. In its very first session in 1946, before any human rights declarations or treaties had been adopted, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 59(I) stating "Freedom of information is a fundamental human right and ... the touchstone of all the freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated." Other Contributions,

The Hague, Netherlands January 2004

2008-04-25T12:11:00.004-07:00

The Hague, Netherlands 2004
The Hague International Model UN Conference THIMUN exists "to uphold the ideals of the United Nations Among The Young," 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. Like previous speeches and workshops delivered in Beijing, Capetown, Moscow, UK, Geneva, etc., he shared his native country Sierra Leone’s tragedy of its children being torn and tattered apart from family and friends through recurrent acts of violence emanating from the civil war. Greene made mention of the far-reaching effects of physical and emotional scars left on the more than 300,000 children due to warfare. He emphasized the extent of human barbarism of children’s hands being hacked by the sheer brutality of a rebel group in Sierra Leone. Greene also suggested that to assure human rights, the global community must constantly express support and solidarity to the children of the world who are caught up in wars, and that they must be prepared to help the children in any possible way. In turn, the children and youth will be inclined to raise awareness of the need to protect children’s rights on a global level, thereby building a solid foundation for peace and human rights. 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." http://www.iearnsierraleone.org/pages/news/conferences.html
Belief: 'Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights and freedoms. In its very first session in 1946, before any human rights declarations or treaties had been adopted, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 59(I) stating "Freedom of information is a fundamental human right and ... the touchstone of all the freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated." Other Contributions,

The Hague International Model United Nations THIMUN January 2004

2008-04-25T12:11:00.002-07:00

Belief: 'Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights and freedoms. In its very first session in 1946, before any human rights declarations or treaties had been adopted, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 59(I) stating "Freedom of information is a fundamental human right and ... the touchstone of all the freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated." Other Contributions,

Geneva, Switzerland 2003

2008-04-25T12:11:00.001-07:00

Geneva, Switzerland - 2003 On 10 December Andrew Greene and other non-profit leaders throughout the world joined such notables as the wife of U.N. President Kofi Annan and Swiss president Pascal Couchepin to present and discuss issues related to IT accessing and the bridging of the digital divide. This very prestigious event helped i*EARN to convey its message of peace through global interconnectivity while offering a world of new ideas and contacts. Pascal Couchepin, President of the Swiss Confederation, noted that "many people around the world have no access to communication networks. Information and communication are the most important pre-conditions for the economic and cultural development of any society. It is therefore our duty to bridge the digital divide." Greene summoned to attend the WSIS event after being accredited by the organization Taking IT Global and as part of the 'Youth Creating Digital Opportunities' (YCDO). His presentation was scheduled for the 10th of December, which is also World Youth Day. His presentation took place amongst a series of workshops, forums and panel discussions also scheduled for that youth day. The themes varied from education to media, employment and human rights etc. Many of the day's events portrayed what was important to young people in an information society, and seeking answers to how ICT's can be harnessed by young people for development goals. Greene's colleague from Sierra Leone, Sylvanus Murray, who is the current Coordinator of Taking IT Global in Sierra Leone, had the singular honour to showcase through a Powerpoint presentation the whole gamut of pre-conference interactive forum activities that were locally held in Freetown, as a runner-up to the WSIS events. Through out Sylvanus' presentation, he was able to throw light on the need for better access to Information Communication Technology in a country like Sierra Leone recovering from the ashes of war. Also, highlights of the Youth Caucus activities included national WSIS youth campaigns, the launching of new projects and partnership, and WSIS Youth Award Winners. Greene was allotted the task of speaking at a panel on the topic of Human Rights and the role of ICT to strengthen Human Rights with Post-conflict and peace Building Process. Greene dwelled on the urgent need for the appropriate use of ICT to contribute towards dialogue and peace building. Through first hand experience, he was able to show how his involvement in human rights projects has helped in the on-going human rights campaign and peace process amongst many Sierra Leoneans and those across the vast cultural divide. The experiences shared by the co-panellist and the feedback from the audience helped a great deal to further create a forum where the ideas can be developed into concrete action. With poor access to ICT, a prerequisite for an inclusive information society, if Sierra Leone is to share in this digital revolution and the information age, its capacity in terms of ICT and usage must be boosted. As Kofi Annan, Secretary General Of The United Nations puts it, "these technologies are a tremendous force for creating opportunities, and for integrating people and nations into the global economy. But too many of the world's people remain untouched by the information revolution. A digital divide threatens to exacerbate already wide gaps between rich and poor, within and amongst countries." view photos from the summit

http://www.andycarvin.com/archives/2005/03/movie_review_lo.html
Belief: 'Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights and freedoms. In its very first session in 1946, before any human rights declarations or treaties had been adopted, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 59(I) stating "Freedom of information is a fundamental human right and ... the touchstone of all the freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated." Other Contributions,

Nova Scotia, Canada June 2003

2008-04-25T12:09:00.000-07:00

Andrew Participated in 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.

Please Read Andrew Greene's reports on his Experiences At Coady International Institute St. Francis Xavier University. Nova Scotia Canada (2003)

REPORT FROM THE AFRICA – CANANA YOUTH SYMPOSIUM FOR LEADERSHIP AND
DEVELOPMENT. BY ANDREW BENSON GREENE

My selection to the 1st African-Canadian 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 thoughts were engulfed in the gloom part of history, when my ancestors, the black Africans were carted away to America during the Atlantic slave trade, and the laborious travels of those slaves up the Underground Railroad to Detroit and onto Ontario, and the Black Loyalists who arrived in Nova Scotia following the American war of Independence. My thoughts could not cease to reflect on how the 1,196 of those black loyalists left Halifax, on that chilly January in 1792, heading for Sierra Leone. I was there in Nova Scotia to share my inspirational story of working with the young victims of war in my country Sierra Leone, and to raising global awareness of the role of conflict diamonds in fanning the flames of Sierra Leone’s largely brutal decade long civil war.
I was ask to co-facilitate several conflict resolution and peace building workshops at the symposium in Antigonish, Nova Scotia, where 100 or so young activists and youth leaders gathered at this valuable symposium and shared ideas with each other in the true collaborative spirit. The verve that we possessed throughout the symposium was reflected in our shared commitment to finding effective youth-friendly strategies to tackle the issues youth are facing throughout the world - issues such as HIV/AIDS, the environment, peacebuilding and economic development. Representing iEARN Sierra Leone, It was important for me to show colleagues my own vision of leadership in my country. In fact, it is this long-range vision that enabled me to set up iEARN in my country. It was as a response to the great and urgent need to rehabilitate and enhance opportunities for the children and youth who have endured this conflict. knew that the rehabilitation of youth, with the help of building ICT and communications skills, will assist in reclaiming their potential as productive citizens and showed my colleagues how we utilized computers and the internet for community development. This will ultimately be a great tool in the battlefield against social injustice. to help build ICT and
communications skills in these youths with the intent to reclaim their potential as productive citizens. We were able to grasp many great ideas on social issues and as young leaders we showed our commitment to the very principles Moses Coady stood for. Established by St. Francis Xavier University in 1959, the Coady International Institute is world-renowned as a centre of excellence in community-based development. The Institute was named in honour of Rev. Dr. Moses Coady, a prominent founder of the Antigonish Movement—a people's movement for economic and social justice that began in Nova Scotia during the 1920s. Apart from facilitating at various peace and reconciliation, conflict resolution and human rights workshops, I was empowered and enlightened in other workshops with thematic concerns such as: ‘Advocacy –Its role in Civil Society, ‘Advocacy- Getting The Message Out’, ‘Program Planning’ and ‘Mobilization of Resources’, to name but a few. These themes do not belly the vision of Rev. Dr. Moses Coady who believed in the empowerment of civil society and self reliance as was portrayed in his book ‘Masters of there Destiny’.
On July 23, 7:30 pm at the Conference Suites, Keating Millennium Centre, St. Francis Xavier University, I was thrilled to hear Ken Wiwa, a human rights activist, journalist and author, discuss his experiences in fighting for the rights of the Ogoni people in Nigeria as well as the role of young leaders in Canada and Africa in helping to address issues such as the environment an d globalization.
The Honourable Supreme Court Justice Louise Arbour also gave a Keynote Address at the Immaculata Auditorium, StFX University. She has been a Justice of the Supreme Court of Canada and also a former UN Chief Prosecutor for the International Criminal Tribunals in Yugoslavia and Rwanda. Madam Justice Arbour’s insightful speech gave a new reawakening to the gathering of African –Canadian Youths when she clearly defined the role for young leaders in addressing global issues such as peacebuilding. Many other social functions marked the week-long event including the International Films Series; Short films and features on issues such as cultural diversity, human rights, peacebuilding, the environment, HIV/ AIDS, and sustainable development. During the relaxing evenings of July 25, of ‘The Africa-Canada Concert’ which took place at MacKay Room, Bloomfield Centre, StFX University, Local talent, High Plains Drifter, opened for the award-winning Afro-Musica, with modern jazz, funk and world beat ensemble whose dynamic live performances has been getting audiences dancing across Atlantic Canada. In the many developmental issues, that was the core of the symposium, my many observations, was on the uncommon and uneven opportunities that African young people face in harnessing Information Communication Technology. (ICT). I harped believed it is high time policies at the higher levels began to be shaped such that the ICT revolution will include the excluded and reach the un-reached bringing a barrage of knowledge and skills down to the excluded thereby empowering their lot. Well, I was speaking from a hard-earned experience gained in my Sierra Leone society that still groped for a share of the ICT cake from which source our young people could derive strength from our common purpose, and be empower youth in the quest for unwavering employment opportunities. In my passion for advocating global human rights and peace, I was matched
with a like-minded peace advocate and Co-facilitator, Nicole Johnson (Ms) youth Coordinator, Halifax Regional Development Agency. Together with vibrant many vibrant and enthusiastic youth participants, we
were able to resolve the following:
1. Strengthen to respect peace, human rights and fundamental freedom.

2. Develop a great sense of individual self-respect for the right of
others and values for human dignity. 3. Have learnt how to promote genuine gender equality and equal opportunities for men and women.
4. Appreciate and promote cultural diversity towards different national, ethnic, religious, linguistic and minorities and communities.
Our plan of action was therefore the creation of a Youth Leadership network for peace and human rights that will go well beyond the symposium. This will strengthen collaboration amongst symposium participants.
Formulate a declaration for world leaders to realize that ‘peace is not only a core human value but a core human rights’ and so this declaration crystal clearly spells out the commitment of young people to fight against the injustices of war, light weaponry and the proliferation of arms trade and the urgent need to put a ban to its sales in Africa.
Belief: 'Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights and freedoms. In its very first session in 1946, before any human rights declarations or treaties had been adopted, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 59(I) stating "Freedom of information is a fundamental human right and ... the touchstone of all the freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated." Other Contributions,

Moscow, Russia 2002

2007-09-30T12:20:00.000-07:00

Moscow, Russia - 2002 9th Annual iEARN International Conference, July 8-13 In July of 2002, during the 9th Annual iEARN Conference that took place in Moscow, Andrew pursued his peace, human rights and conflict resolution drive that have been the centre of concern amongst his Sierra Leone colleagues. His ideas on these thorny global issues were felt by all participants in the walls of the prestigious Cosmos hotel where the conference took place and literally around the walls of the Kremlin. As well as hosting his own workshop ‘May Peace Prevail On Earth’ Andrew was able to share his thoughts in several other iEARN workshops including this one by Yoshie Naya, entitled: ‘Hello From Japan’. The interactions involved in these workshop, shows how apt the overall theme of the conference was: “Humanity In The Internet Age, Putting ‘Humanware’ before Hardware and Software.”
Belief: 'Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights and freedoms. In its very first session in 1946, before any human rights declarations or treaties had been adopted, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 59(I) stating "Freedom of information is a fundamental human right and ... the touchstone of all the freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated." Other Contributions,

Capetown South Afrifca 2001 'Education In The Internet Age'

2007-09-30T12:16:00.000-07:00

Capetown, South Africa - 2001
8th Annual iEARN International Conference
IEARN Sierra Leone youth Rashid Peters and coordinator Andrew Greene participated in the 8th Annual iEARN International Conference also known as the "Africa Connects Conference. Together they held a trio workshop with their long time partner and friend in iEARN Bill Belsey. The presentation was entitled ‘Using Tele-communications technology to illustrate the predicaments faced by child soldiers.

This conference marked the climax of online interactions of youth/ students and their teachers/coordinators or on-line facilitators over the last 12 months. It also attracted professionals in On-line education and E-learning from a broad spectrum of institutions and organizations all over the world connected under the theme ‘Education In The Internet Age’.
Belief: 'Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights and freedoms. In its very first session in 1946, before any human rights declarations or treaties had been adopted, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 59(I) stating "Freedom of information is a fundamental human right and ... the touchstone of all the freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated." Other Contributions,

Beijing China July 2000

2007-09-30T07:07:00.000-07:00

Greene and Dr. Ed Gragert (iEARN USA) Left

Greene and Bill Belsey Right (Beijing China 2000) (Right)

His first International Traveling debut was in Beijing, China - July 2000 during 7th Annual IEARN International Conference, July 7-14 2000
The overall theme of this conference was "Sharing and Understanding Tele-education in the Twenty-first Century." Andrew shared his vision for using ICT's towards 'Conflict resolution in the 21st Century. During the conference and thrioughout the event, he networked and shared his vision for using the internet positively to help transform the lives of students and youth in Sierra Leone that were emerging from wars.

http://www.iearn.org/china2000.htm
Belief: 'Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights and freedoms. In its very first session in 1946, before any human rights declarations or treaties had been adopted, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 59(I) stating "Freedom of information is a fundamental human right and ... the touchstone of all the freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated." Other Contributions,

Past Initiatives

2007-08-13T07:56:00.000-07:00
Photos and videos of initiatives Coming soon!!! Keep looking please.
Video Production

Music

Internet and Computer Skills Training

International internship

National college student Volunteers

National Teacher Training of Trainers

outreach to schools and communities

International Youth Exhanges, conference and seminars

Role Plays and Drama

Debates

Fine Arts and Culture

TV/radio discussions

Children and youth interaction on Global Issues (Peace, human rights, Conflict resolution, Environment

Lobbying with local Government for Peace education in the local school curriculum

Creating a network of organizations and friends

Support from family, intimate old school friends and solidarity from networks of University Colleagues and friends.
Belief: 'Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights and freedoms. In its very first session in 1946, before any human rights declarations or treaties had been adopted, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 59(I) stating "Freedom of information is a fundamental human right and ... the touchstone of all the freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated." Other Contributions,

2007-07-13T13:15:00.000-07:00
Other Contributions,Quotes, Commendations and Awards:
International Open Poetry Competition (Maryland USA 1995 for the poem title: 'My Teenage', published in the Anthology "Echoes of Yesterday'.
Aureal Writers Club Awards 1996
James B. Boskey Memorial Fresh Faces Awards, 2000
Goi Peace Foundation Essay Writing Awards 2000
Cable and Wireless Childnet awards 2003
Bremen Peace Commendation -Threshold Foundation Germany 2003
Beyond Borders Listen Up Awards 2003
Sauve Scholars Awards 2004
Global junior Challenge Awards 2007
In addition Greene was on the shortlist for the 'digital Visions Fellows' at Stanford University California USA.
Belief: 'Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic rights and freedoms. In its very first session in 1946, before any human rights declarations or treaties had been adopted, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 59(I) stating "Freedom of information is a fundamental human right and ... the touchstone of all the freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated." Other Contributions,