Utilizing yoga, mental focus, and meditative practices, CNN Heroes elevate their endeavors to unprecedented heights.
"Occasionally, being pioneers in the charitable sector, you can feel isolated in your cause," remarked CNN Hero Estefanía Rebellón, whose organization transforms buses into mobile classrooms to educate migrant children residing near the US-Mexico border. "You bear the burden of the world on your shoulders, believing that you're battling this struggle single-handedly."
In its second year of partnership with CNN Heroes, the Elevate Prize Foundation invited the Top Heroes of 2023 to their Make Good Famous Summit held in Miami in May. This global nonprofit champions changemakers, equipping them with the necessary resources and backing to amplify their influence. The event offered skill-enhancement workshops, networking chances, and self-care sessions aimed at rejuvenating and revitalizing the CNN Heroes.
"It's essentially gathering a bunch of do-gooders worldwide, trying to make a difference and roll that boulder uphill," commented 2023 CNN Hero of the Year Dr. Kwan Stewart, describing this year's summit's feeling of unity and energy. "Listening to others discuss their accomplishments and journey to success inspires me."
This was the first reunion of the Heroes since they were honored on the CNN Heroes stage in December of the previous year. The summit provided them with an opportunity to connect with Elevate Prize winners and other nonprofit leaders.
"When we're constructing something, we often feel alone. Sharing this experience with kindred spirits is affirming, nourishing, and delightful," shared Elevate Prize Foundation founder Joe Deitch. "We can learn from one another. We can find inspiration and have those 'aha' moments. That's what it's all about."
Such was the case for CNN Hero Alvin Irby, whose Barbershop Books initiative encourages young Black boys to see themselves as readers.
"The work we're pursuing is difficult. We're attempting to address substantial challenges and systemic problems," he affirmed. "Having community, the chance to share our struggles, and collaborate on solutions is empowering."
At the summit, the Elevate Prize Foundation introduced a concept they had been working on called the Whole Leader. The objective is that leaders must prioritize both personal well-being and community outreach. By aiding the Heroes in managing their mental health and avoiding burnout, it will boost their capacity to assist others – a priority for Elevate.
"Self-care can be challenging to prioritize in the social impact sector," admitted CNN Hero Osei Boateng. "It seems self-indulgent and unnecessary in the face of urgent challenges."
During this training, the Heroes attended mindfulness, meditation, and yoga sessions. These practices already form a crucial component of the retreats offered by CNN Hero Adam Pearce's organization, catering to individuals with brain injuries and their caregivers. In his view, they provide benefits for both himself and the community.
"It plays a significant role in fostering self-reflection and self-inquiry, enabling us to connect with ourselves and others," he emphasized.
Self-care was not the only focus. Elevate also delivered essential lessons aimed at broadening the Heroes' reach and elevating their impactful work. This included sessions on nonprofit finance, board management, and strategy for storytelling.
CNN Hero Yasmine Arrington Brooks left the summit eager to employ these enhanced skills in sharing the world about her work providing scholarships and mentorship to children of incarcerated parents.
"It's important to highlight and amplify the positive changes occurring worldwide," she emphasized. "With all the turmoil happening now, I think some people just need a sense of hope."
For Elevate founder Joe Deitch, the summit represented part of the foundation's mission to ignite the purpose and enthusiasm within each of us.
"It's about awakening the hero within," he declared. "By making good famous, we take goodness further. We can inspire the entire world. We can inform people that they too can make a difference."
In the grand scheme of the world's needs, the Elevate Prize Foundation's mission to equip changemakers feels incredibly important and necessary.
The global gathering at the Make Good Famous Summit served as a powerful reminder that addressing societal issues is a collective effort, not a solo struggle.
