When middle school students were asked about what it takes to be a Civic Changemaker, their answers were simple and powerful: empathy, bravery, and kindness. As part of my Humanitarian Internship Program placement, I have the opportunity to work directly with GW’s Honey W. Nashman Center and their Civic Changemakers program. I first visited the program on its first day, and recently returned again. They’re halfway through the month-long journey. Both the GW student facilitators and DCPS middle school students had formed strong, confident teams. It was clear that the team-building efforts had paid off and they now moved with shared purpose.
The program follows a thoughtful structure. Students start by building trust and exploring their own communities. They then learn how to identify local challenges and brainstorm ways to make a difference. At this midpoint, the students were preparing to present their own ideas for community improvement projects. Watching their creative and intentional process reminded me of my own experience as an international development practitioner in rural Cambodia. In our sector, we often refer to ourselves as "changemakers"-people who help communities and local governments reflect, plan, and lead their own paths to progress. Through the Civic Changemakers program, I had the chance to speak to about 50 middle school students at a DCPS site and share what being a changemaker has meant to me.
“I remember you, Ari”
Even though I only visited once before, some students remembered me. It was a casual greeting but hearing that made me feel so warmly welcomed. 50 students were divided into 3 classrooms, so I gave my presentation 3 times. While the content was the same, each session felt a little different.
I talked about my background, growing up in Mongolia, studying and working in Japan, and later working in Cambodia through a Japanese NGO. I focused on a health system strengthening initiative I led in Cambodia, which included capacity-building for healthcare workers, hospital environment improvements, and community awareness activities. Although the situation was difficult at first, thanks to collaboration among local governments, agencies, and health staff, we were able to make significant progress.
Of course, there were some funny and heartwarming moments too. Students getting sidetracked, giggling at small things, or rapidly changing topics mid-conversation. They were also curious. They asked about Cambodia’s food, climate, and what it was like to work in a country so different from their own. One memorable question stood out:
“What kept you motivated to do this work?”
That question made me pause and reflect. I shared how growing up in post-Soviet Mongolia, amid economic uncertainty, and later living in Japan, where I experienced the safety and stability of a “developed country”, shaped my drive to pursue a career in international development. I believe that everyone deserves a safe and healthy life, and that belief continues to motivate my work.
After my talk, I had the chance to hear about their own projects. Topics ranged from mental health awareness and AI in job searching, to sexual harassment and substance abuse. I was both shocked and inspired by how aware these middle school students are of such serious social issues. It gives me hope to see that they not only recognize these challenges but are motivated to take action to improve their communities.
Being mindful and curious about others, even those whose life experiences are very different from yours, is a quality I believe we all need. The students I met are already on that path. Whether they realize it or not, they’re becoming changemakers in their own right. The Civic Changemakers program is giving them the tools to continue that journey and I’m truly grateful I had the chance to share my story through HIPP, and to witness the powerful ideas these young minds are bringing to life.