“ Inspirational English ” talks to Harry White about his voluntary work and positivity .
Would you tell us about your work with Heart ELT ?
I began to work with Julie Kacmaz , founder of Heart ELT , a couple of years ago , when she offered her help with a separate project . I mainly assisted with representing the cause , helping to run its Facebook pages , and working to develop the movement . One of Heart ELT ’ s projects , The A-Z of Hope , is a recently-released , printon-demand book designed to make English an accessible language for students all around the world , regardless of where it is . I was proud to write a foreword for the book , along with several other contributors . I also try and help Heart ELT where I can with its online presence — I believe that raising awareness for this amazing movement is very important .
Can you tell us about an occasion when your organisation has brought smiles to the children ’ s faces ?
Heart ELT has helped to support Heart School in an Iraqi refugee camp for an extended period of time . Julie would send me videos of students receiving donations , preparing for celebrations such as Christmas , and much more . What struck me is how grateful these people were for such basic things : paper , scissors etc . Their enduring hope in times of such despair is truly magical .
How do you think young people can be encouraged to take part in positive events for social change ?
The key is to provide access to clear , unbiased information to everyone , and to teach all young people that we can have an effect . Our age does not affect the validity of our beliefs , and even the smallest actions can have the biggest impact on someone ’ s life . Educating young people in areas such as citizenship and politics allows for us to develop our social conscience , and form opinions that will motivate us to get involved .
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