Plus-Size Nigerian Ladies Fight Body-Shaming, Build Self-esteem Using Pageantry

An inner city Detroit program places 90 percent of graduates in well-paying tech jobs by teaching them how to code. It may serve as a viable path for Philadelphia citizens, as well.

Despite overwhelming evidence that play is vital for children’s physical, emotional and cognitive development, in recent decades, due to many factors, children’s outdoor play opportunities have declined markedly. For 15 years, KaBOOM! has been leading playground construction around the country, mostly in neighborhoods where at least 70 percent of children qualify for the federal government’s free and reduced-cost lunch program.

When adults are asked what values they think youth sports actually reinforce most, they say competitiveness and the importance of winning. The Positive Coaching Alliance provides teaching tools that help coaches redefine the idea of “winning” from something that is reflected on a scoreboard to something that is reflected in a child’s character.

Despite being an island of seamen, Iceland used to experience high numbers of drownings every year, fostering a keen interest in swimming education. The government stepped up and tapped into the underground hot water generated by Iceland’s volcanic activity to create geothermal pools, which quickly became more than a humble municipal investment, but perhaps the very secret to the country’s happiness. Every town now enjoys communal pools, which create a neutral, recreational space that brings all manner of people together.

Novel solar projects are helping to make renewable energy more accessible and transparent for low income and minority communities in Minnesota. An interfaith cooperative provides families access to solar energy gardens regardless of income level or credit score, and a pilot program offers solar energy camp for children to learn about energy alternatives and careers in renewables.

Urban decay has left a "physical legacy" of past economic hardships in cities. Many cities across the world are now implementing programs that promote public art that rebuilds and reimagines neighborhoods.

Large festivals are notorious culprits of mass waste generation, and the general mentality of many Western cultures is that eco-friendliness requires extra effort and is often unobtainable. But the founders of Wonderfruit, Asia's most popular music festival, are determined to prove that the festival format is actually the perfect platform to raise awareness of issues such as climate change, resource use, and sustainability through innovative efforts such as self-sorting trash bins on-site and phone charging stations powered by renewable energy.

As the family unit in Western society is increasingly fractured, many suffering from stress, anger, and trauma often must find to alternative ways to build community and find belonging. One unique example is the Viking Festival in Wolin, Poland. More than just an event, the coordinated battles and revival of craftsmanship have allowed many to channel aggression and frustration in a constructive manner, and even helped some to rebuild their lives.

The Middle East has long been the site of conflict, but 'Jerusalem Double' is trying to ease tensions by having people from all backgrounds come together to play in backgammon tournaments. These tournaments have been very successful in sparking empathy, mentorship, discussion and bringing groups together.

Camp Corral is an organization that brings together the children of military personnel who have suffered in combat. This is a unique experience for the youth because for the first time they can interact with other kids who have to face the same issues on a daily basis, resulting in increased confidence and overall well-being.