Stanford’s Executive Director of Sustainability Utilities and Infrastructure interviews Kimberly Haley-Coleman about how international development work can be done in a way that truly serves local communities and respects their culture, rather than imposing external solutions. Lincoln and Kimberly discuss the importance of fostering cultural connections and empathy through international service, the evolution of Globe Aware‘s projects over 25 years, and the significance of understanding community needs. The conversation highlights the challenges and rewards of volunteer work, the sustainability of projects, and the transformative experiences for volunteers. Kimberly emphasizes the need for deep listening and collaboration with local communities to ensure meaningful outcomes.

How can international development work be done in a way that truly serves local communities and respects their culture, rather than imposing external solutions?

“YES!” says Kimberly Haley-Coleman, founder and CEO of Globe Aware, a charity that promotes sustainable volunteer tourism. In episode 59 of the Climate+ Podcast, Lincoln and Kimberly discuss the importance of fostering cultural connections and empathy through international service, the evolution of Globe Aware’s projects over 25 years, and the significance of understanding community needs. The conversation highlights the challenges and rewards of volunteer work, the sustainability of projects, and the transformative experiences for volunteers. Kimberly emphasizes the need for deep listening and collaboration with local communities to ensure meaningful outcomes.