At Colegio Base International School, a spark of creativity and social responsibility ignited our 6th-grade Social Science class, embracing the globally recognized Design For Change (DFC) initiative.
Design For Change champions a simple yet powerful message: children and young people have the potential to be the most influential change-makers in their communities. By adopting the DFC “Feel, Imagine, Do, Share methodology,” our students learned to channel their empathy, creativity, and leadership into tangible actions for social good.
This year, driven by the spirit of entrepreneurship and the desire to make a difference, our students formed groups, each with a keen eye on identifying local issues they felt passionate about addressing. The culmination of their efforts was not just in recognizing these challenges but in taking steps to create solutions that mattered.
One of the standout projects that emerged from this endeavor was the decision by several groups to organize a market day at our school. But this was no ordinary market; it was a testament to what young minds can achieve when they come together for a cause. The items for sale, ranging from handmade drawings and bracelets to homemade sweets, were all crafted by our students. This initiative was a platform for our young entrepreneurs to showcase their talents and a meaningful way to contribute to a more significant cause.
The market day was a huge success. Through the collective efforts of our students, staff, and supportive parents, we raised 478€. In keeping with the essence of Design For Change, the proceeds were donated to Cris contra el Cáncer, a private and independent organization whose objective is to promote and finance research projects for the treatment and cure of cancer.
This was evidence our of student’s commitment to making a significant impact in the fight against cancer.
This experience was more than just a fundraising event; it was a practical lesson in empathy, teamwork, leadership, and the power of community. Our students learned the importance of looking beyond themselves, understanding the struggles of others, and taking action to support those in need. They saw firsthand how their creativity and hard work could translate into real-world benefits for others.
Reflecting on this project, it’s clear that the lessons learned extend far beyond the confines of a classroom. Our students have gained invaluable skills that will serve them well into the future—skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, and, most importantly, compassion. By participating in Design For Change, they have become part of a global community of young leaders who are not waiting for change to happen; they are making it happen.
To other educators and schools considering the Design For Change initiative, our message is simple: the potential within your students to affect positive change is immense. By guiding them through the “Feel, Imagine, Do, Share” process, you’re not just teaching them about the world but empowering them to change it for the better.
