Delight in these Heartwarming, Inspiring Stories - https://mymodernmet.com/category/inspiring/ The Big City That Celebrates Creative Ideas Tue, 30 Jul 2024 17:09:54 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://mymodernmet.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/cropped-My-Modern-Met-Favicon-1-32x32.png Delight in these Heartwarming, Inspiring Stories - https://mymodernmet.com/category/inspiring/ 32 32 Woman Asks Each of Her Six Siblings for $100 and Receives Heartwarming Response https://mymodernmet.com/sibling-generosity-test-video/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} Tue, 30 Jul 2024 17:30:29 +0000 https://mymodernmet.com/?p=685756 Woman Asks Each of Her Six Siblings for $100 and Receives Heartwarming Response

@thetiabeestokes this made me cry….. Tears of joy. The crazy thing is is I had to give a talk on the true love of Christ and being able to love with no expectation or with no reason why just to purely love, so I sent a text out to all my siblings just to see […]

READ: Woman Asks Each of Her Six Siblings for $100 and Receives Heartwarming Response

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Woman Asks Each of Her Six Siblings for $100 and Receives Heartwarming Response
@thetiabeestokes this made me cry….. Tears of joy. The crazy thing is is I had to give a talk on the true love of Christ and being able to love with no expectation or with no reason why just to purely love, so I sent a text out to all my siblings just to see how they would respond knowing even knowing some don’t have the financials to spare a $100…. their responses had me in tears just to know that I can reach out to any of my siblings no matter what I’m going through and they will love me & ready to serve me with no expectation or no reason why…if you notice not one of my siblings asked FOR WHAT? Or why?! They just loved and sent $. I know our parents are smiling down on all seven of us we’re not perfect not even close to it But our love is strong I love you and blessed to be the baby of SEVEN STRONG @ahquinclayjr @tonyaherbie @bigmaxyk @daqueen_irene @adamahquin and Joe and have the amazing parents that taught us how to love. Thnx siblings to…Remember JUST TO LOVE WITH NO REASON….we allll need this kind of love. Love with NO EXPECTATION like Jesus Christ. And If you can’t find it then BE IT❤️ Him. You. Me. We. “We got this” Xo Tia day 1,483 fighting leukemia • remission • living for today #fyp #emotional #challenge #siblings ♬ original sound – Tia Stokes

Cancer survivor Tia Bee Stokes, known for her viral dance videos during her health battle, recently posted a heartwarming video testing her siblings' generosity. In the video, she messaged all six of her siblings, asking for $100.

Stokes offered no explanation except that she was in a fix and needed the money sent to her Venmo, with a promise to pay them back. In each reply, all her siblings agreed without hesitation and judgment, with no questions asking for what or why. One of Stokes' brothers even gave her five times the requested amount to ensure she was fully covered.

Stokes' video reminds those of us with siblings how willing they are to support us in times of need. In the comment section, other users share equally touching stories of their siblings supporting them through challenging situations with financial assistance or other means. However, for some, Stokes' post was a realization of the lack of support from their own family members. Not everyone has support from their siblings or other family members, but Stokes' video is a reminder that having a support system—whether it be relatives or your chosen family—is important, especially during difficult times.

Diagnosed in 2020 with acute myeloid leukemia, Stokes' doctor advised her to spend 15 minutes a day doing something to keep her going. She started sharing daily dance videos on TikTok and updates on her chemo journey. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Stokes was often isolated in her hospital room due to her cancer treatment. However, she found an online community that offered her support.

“I want people to see hope,” Stokes told People. “It's been amazing, the people that message me on the daily that are going through not just cancer, but other things, whether it's mental health or whether it's suicidal thoughts, or whether it's they got diagnosed with a different type of cancer or a tumor.”

Currently in remission, Stokes still shares dancing videos to spread positivity and inspirational posts and stories.

Tia Bee Stokes, a cancer survivor known for her viral dance videos, recently tested her siblings' generosity by asking each of them for $100.

 

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A post shared by TIA choosing Happy (@thetiabeestokes)

All six siblings agreed without hesitation, with one even giving five times the requested amount.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by TIA choosing Happy (@thetiabeestokes)

Stokes’ video demonstrates the deep value of sibling support and love through their unconditional willingness to help.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by TIA choosing Happy (@thetiabeestokes)

Tia Bee Stokes: Instagram | TikTok | Youtube
h/t: [Digg, People]

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READ: Woman Asks Each of Her Six Siblings for $100 and Receives Heartwarming Response

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After Selling Myspace, Tom Pursued His Passion for Landscape Photography https://mymodernmet.com/myspace-tom-photography/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} Sun, 28 Jul 2024 13:50:02 +0000 https://mymodernmet.com/?p=683955 After Selling Myspace, Tom Pursued His Passion for Landscape Photography

  Ver esta publicación en Instagram   Una publicación compartida por Tom Anderson (@myspacetom) If you are over 30, you probably remember Myspace. And if you remember Myspace, you must remember Tom, everyone's default first friend. This wasn't gratuitous, as Tom Anderson was the social media platform's co-founder. But after selling the company, Anderson began […]

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After Selling Myspace, Tom Pursued His Passion for Landscape Photography

 

Ver esta publicación en Instagram

 

Una publicación compartida por Tom Anderson (@myspacetom)

If you are over 30, you probably remember Myspace. And if you remember Myspace, you must remember Tom, everyone's default first friend. This wasn't gratuitous, as Tom Anderson was the social media platform's co-founder. But after selling the company, Anderson began pursuing other passions, excelling in a particularly artistic one—landscape photography.

After launching in 2003, MySpace ruled the social media landscape, which prompted News Corp. to buy the company two years later for $580 million.  Anderson continued in an advisory role, finally leaving the company in 2009. With plenty of money and free time, he took the chance to travel around the world and explore his interests. But if there's one thing to know about Anderson, it's that he has been into many different things throughout his life.

“If you knew me before Myspace, you'd probably thought I'd have been a scholar teaching philosophy in a university my whole life. If you met me before college, you'd probably have thought I'd be a musician for my entire life,” Anderson told ABC News in 2014. “I like change.”

Those varied interests took him to Burning Man in 2011. While there, he took some breathtaking images despite the difficult desert conditions, inspiring him to continue his photography journey. Following the guidance of his friend, photographer Trey Ratcliff, he continued to hone his technique, developing a unique eye for shooting landscapes.

Honoring the places he visits but hoping to convey the feelings they evoke, Anderson has also become a masterful editor. “The less the camera is able to capture what you're seeing in a scene, the more editing it needs,” he explained. “I'm not necessarily trying to represent nature exactly. I'm trying to make something beautiful like a painter would.”

Up until 2018, Anderson would share his images on Instagram. But this contemporary Renaissance man seems to have moved on to a new passion–golf, serving as a brand ambassador for fashion golf brand Students. While he appears to have switched gears, his photography lives on, allowing us to dream of one day quitting everything to fulfill our creative fantasies.

After Myspace's Tom Anderson sold the company, he began pursuing other passions, excelling in a particularly artistic one—landscape photography.

 

Ver esta publicación en Instagram

 

Una publicación compartida por Tom Anderson (@myspacetom)

With plenty of money and free time, he took the chance to travel around the world and explore his interests.

 

Ver esta publicación en Instagram

 

Una publicación compartida por Tom Anderson (@myspacetom)

Those varied interests took him to Burning Man in 2011, where he took breathtaking images.

 

Ver esta publicación en Instagram

 

Una publicación compartida por Tom Anderson (@myspacetom)

Following the guidance of his friend, photographer Trey Ratcliff, he continued to hone his technique, developing a unique eye for shooting landscapes.

 

Ver esta publicación en Instagram

 

Una publicación compartida por Tom Anderson (@myspacetom)

To honor the places he visits while trying to convey the feelings they evoke, Anderson has also become a masterful editor.

 

Ver esta publicación en Instagram

 

Una publicación compartida por Tom Anderson (@myspacetom)

“The less the camera is able to capture what you're seeing in a scene, the more editing it needs,” he explained.

 

Ver esta publicación en Instagram

 

Una publicación compartida por Tom Anderson (@myspacetom)

“I'm not necessarily trying to represent nature exactly. I'm trying to make something beautiful like a painter would.”

 

Ver esta publicación en Instagram

 

Una publicación compartida por Tom Anderson (@myspacetom)

Up until 2018, Anderson shared his images on Instagram.

 

Ver esta publicación en Instagram

 

Una publicación compartida por Tom Anderson (@myspacetom)

While he appears to have switched gears, his photography lives on, allowing us to dream of one day quitting everything to fulfill our creative fantasies.

 

Ver esta publicación en Instagram

 

Una publicación compartida por Tom Anderson (@myspacetom)

Tom Anderson: Instagram

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READ: After Selling Myspace, Tom Pursued His Passion for Landscape Photography

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Paraplegic Athlete Kevin Piette Walks With Robot Exoskeleton To Carry the Olympic Torch https://mymodernmet.com/paraplegic-athlete-olympic-torch-exoskeleton/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} Fri, 26 Jul 2024 20:15:46 +0000 https://mymodernmet.com/?p=685200 Paraplegic Athlete Kevin Piette Walks With Robot Exoskeleton To Carry the Olympic Torch

  Ver esta publicación en Instagram   Una publicación compartida por SPORTRICOLORE (@sportricolore) The Olympic torch relay is one of the most exciting events going into the Olympic Games. Athletes and luminaries of all ages carry the flame from Greece all the way to the host city in a display of sportsmanship and brotherhood. Among […]

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Paraplegic Athlete Kevin Piette Walks With Robot Exoskeleton To Carry the Olympic Torch

 

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Una publicación compartida por SPORTRICOLORE (@sportricolore)

The Olympic torch relay is one of the most exciting events going into the Olympic Games. Athletes and luminaries of all ages carry the flame from Greece all the way to the host city in a display of sportsmanship and brotherhood. Among the final torchbearers for the Paris 2024 Olympics is French Paralympian Kevin Piette, who just made history as the first athlete to participate in the torch relay wearing an exoskeleton.

Piette, a Paralympic tennis player, lost the use of his legs due to a motorcycle accident in 2012. Besides pursuing this sport, he is also a “test pilot” for Wandercraft, the French company that developed the world’s first self-stabilizing walking exoskeleton, known as the Atalante X, which was designed to be used by people with disabilities.

“Wandercraft has created the first natural walking exoskeleton capable of walking autonomously without crutches,” says the company. “With the personal exoskeleton, individuals who were previously in wheelchairs will regain their mobility and be able to move freely, both at home and in their communities, maintaining their balance, hands-free, and safely.”

After arriving to the relay point in a wheelchair, Piette was propelled into the exoskeleton. He then walked carefully but determinedly, beaming as the crowd cheered for him through the Poissy city center. “It is with pride and honor that I was able to carry this flame that represents so many beautiful things,” he wrote on Instagram. “Commitment, sport, innovation, inclusion, hope, the future… I will never forget this day.”

“Kevin is the embodiment of sporting commitment, the desire for a more inclusive society and the spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation, with infectious energy!” reads the Olympics website. The organization commended his involvement in the development of the exoskeleton, as well as his involvement in “cybathlons”—competitions in which people with disabilities use assistive technologies to carry out everyday activities. “By carrying the Olympic Torch, Kevin inspires people to get involved in sport and promote innovation for the disabled!”

To stay up to date with the athlete, you can follow Piette on Instagram.

French Paralympian Kevin Piette just made history as the first athlete to participate in the torch relay wearing an exoskeleton.

“It is with pride and honor that I was able to carry this flame that represents so many beautiful things: Commitment, sport, innovation, inclusion, hope, the future… I will never forget this day.”

h/t: [Neatorama]

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READ: Paraplegic Athlete Kevin Piette Walks With Robot Exoskeleton To Carry the Olympic Torch

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Miss Kansas Courageously Calls Out Her Abuser on Public Stage, Launches Fight Against Domestic Violence https://mymodernmet.com/miss-kansas-calls-out-abuser-on-stage/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} Fri, 26 Jul 2024 17:30:20 +0000 https://mymodernmet.com/?p=685147 Miss Kansas Courageously Calls Out Her Abuser on Public Stage, Launches Fight Against Domestic Violence

  Ver esta publicación en Instagram   Una publicación compartida por Miss Kansas (@missamericaks) Beauty pageant contestants are often trained to give acute, graceful answers to the hosts' questions, reinforcing the poise they aim to convey. That's why when Alexis Smith, who was recently crowned Miss Kansas, spoke her truth, her message resonated with many […]

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Miss Kansas Courageously Calls Out Her Abuser on Public Stage, Launches Fight Against Domestic Violence

 

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Una publicación compartida por Miss Kansas (@missamericaks)

Beauty pageant contestants are often trained to give acute, graceful answers to the hosts' questions, reinforcing the poise they aim to convey. That's why when Alexis Smith, who was recently crowned Miss Kansas, spoke her truth, her message resonated with many people. After noticing her domestic violence abuser was in the audience, Smith called him out from the stage.

During the interview portion of the pageant, Smith was asked about her vision as the next Miss Kansas. “My vision as the next Miss Kansas is to eliminate unhealthy and abusive relationships,” Smith replied, addressing how she had felt throughout the evening. “Matter of fact, some of you in this audience saw me very emotional because my abuser is here today. But that’s not going to stop me from being on this Miss Kansas stage and from representing as the next Miss Kansas.”

Speaking to Good Morning America about that night, Smith said, “On the night of Miss Kansas, my journey took an unexpected turn when someone I have been healing from tried to disrupt my peace. Instead of falling into silence, I chose to live out my vision for a better world. I took back my power—not just for myself, but for my dreams and everyone watching and listening.”

Smith, who works as a cardiothoracic intensive care nurse in Wichita, also shared that she had moved to Texas for a couple of years to escape from the abusive relationship. “My family, every single woman in my family, was impacted by domestic violence,” she told local television station KSN. “At the age of 14, I got in my first relationship, but it was also an abusive relationship that I was in until about 2018, 2019. It’s something that I’m still experiencing and dealing with today.”

Empowered by her win, she has now launched a community service initiative called Respect Reclaimed: Advocating for Healthy Relationships to encourage others to find support. “To everyone watching that has experienced domestic violence, you are strong, this is not your fault, and you have the ability to take the lead,” she says.

Smith will compete as Miss Kansas in the Miss America pageant in January 2025. In the meantime, you can follow Smith on Instagram to stay up to date with her Respect Reclaimed program and her ventures as Miss Kansas.

This is Alexis Smith, who was recently crowned Miss Kansas.

After noticing her domestic violence abuser was in the audience on the night she was crowned, Smith called him out from the stage.

Watch her empowering message below.

 

Ver esta publicación en Instagram

 

Una publicación compartida por Miss Kansas (@missamericaks)

Alexis Smith: Instagram
h/t: [AP]

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READ: Miss Kansas Courageously Calls Out Her Abuser on Public Stage, Launches Fight Against Domestic Violence

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Minnesota Morning News Anchor Jason Hackett Comes Out as Gay to His Viewers on Live TV https://mymodernmet.com/jason-hacket-coming-out-live-tv/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} Wed, 24 Jul 2024 16:35:18 +0000 https://mymodernmet.com/?p=684409 Minnesota Morning News Anchor Jason Hackett Comes Out as Gay to His Viewers on Live TV

  Ver esta publicación en Instagram   Una publicación compartida por Jason Hackett (@jasonhackettnews) For many people in the LGBTQ+ community, coming out is hardly ever an easy experience, but it's always an important one. It can be especially daunting if you're coming out to loved ones or, like TV anchor Jason Hackett, your entire […]

READ: Minnesota Morning News Anchor Jason Hackett Comes Out as Gay to His Viewers on Live TV

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Minnesota Morning News Anchor Jason Hackett Comes Out as Gay to His Viewers on Live TV

For many people in the LGBTQ+ community, coming out is hardly ever an easy experience, but it's always an important one. It can be especially daunting if you're coming out to loved ones or, like TV anchor Jason Hackett, your entire audience. The newscaster recently pushed through, delivering not only an empowering truth about himself on live TV, but also sending a message to those who could need a little comfort and inspiration.

Hackett began working at Minnesota's KARE 11’s Sunrise show in January 2023. And while some people knew about his sexuality, most outside his closest circle didn't. “I lived in this glass closet where my friends and coworkers knew I was gay, but never my audience,” Hackett, a 13-year broadcast veteran, told Today. “I kept it to myself.”

One morning in May, Hackett decided to open up to his viewers, supported by his co-hosts and peers. “Coming out to people is never easy for me,” Hackett addressed the audience. “I’m so nervous right now. I’m not going to lie. This is no doubt the most people I’ve ever come out to at once. But what me … and everyone here on ‘Sunrise’ strive for, is authenticity. And I can’t preach that without being my authentic self.”

He continued, “For anyone that is watching this now, who is struggling to find acceptance, or struggling with their family or friends, take it from me, a gay Black son of immigrants, the road may not be easy, I won’t lie to you and say that it is—but don’t worry, keep going. You’re going to make it.”

Hackett, who is of Jamaican descent and whose parents haven't fully accepted his sexuality yet, has said that those struggling or with similar stories can reach out to him for support. “I know what it feels like to think, ‘I’m never going to find acceptance. I have to change who I am or I’m going to have to hide forever,’” Hackett says. “Know that there is light at the end of the tunnel. Live freely and love openly and be proud of who you are. It really does get better.”

Now, Hackett is happy that he won't have to worry about anyone watching him out and about with his partner. “A huge weight had been lifted off of my shoulders,” he admits. “I was so relieved. It feels like gay people are constantly coming out to new people—you come out to your barber, and your butcher—and it’s scary every single time. Now that I’ve come out to the entire world, I don’t have to worry anymore.”

This is TV anchor Jason Hackett, from Minnesota's KARE 11’s Sunrise show. One morning in May, Hackett decided to come out to his viewers, supported by his co-hosts and peers.

“For anyone that is watching this now, who is struggling to find acceptance, or struggling with their family or friends, take it from me, a gay Black son of immigrants, the road may not be easy, I won’t lie to you and say that it is—but don’t worry, keep going. You’re going to make it.”

Watch his powerful message below.

 

Ver esta publicación en Instagram

 

Una publicación compartida por KARE 11 (@kare11)

Jason Hackett: Instagram
h/t: [Today]

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READ: Minnesota Morning News Anchor Jason Hackett Comes Out as Gay to His Viewers on Live TV

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22 Tennessee State Parks Provide All-Terrain Wheelchairs to Enhance Accessibility for All https://mymodernmet.com/tennessee-state-parks-terrain-wheelchairs/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} Fri, 19 Jul 2024 13:50:13 +0000 https://mymodernmet.com/?p=682981 22 Tennessee State Parks Provide All-Terrain Wheelchairs to Enhance Accessibility for All

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Tennessee State Parks (@tennesseestateparks) The evolution of technology has increasingly introduced accessible features. Smartphones have implemented specialized assistive technologies like voice commands, screen readers, and customizable interfaces. And improvements in smart home devices, such as voice-activated lights, help improve everyday convenience and accessibility for […]

READ: 22 Tennessee State Parks Provide All-Terrain Wheelchairs to Enhance Accessibility for All

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22 Tennessee State Parks Provide All-Terrain Wheelchairs to Enhance Accessibility for All

The evolution of technology has increasingly introduced accessible features. Smartphones have implemented specialized assistive technologies like voice commands, screen readers, and customizable interfaces. And improvements in smart home devices, such as voice-activated lights, help improve everyday convenience and accessibility for people with mobility and sensory impairments.

In line with this trend, Tennessee has added all-terrain wheelchairs to 10 more state parks, bringing the total number of parks with mobility assistive devices to 22. These specialized wheelchairs are designed to navigate various terrains, allowing people with disabilities to participate in outdoor activities and explore natural environments that were previously more challenging to access.

According to Tennessee State Parks, the wheelchairs were obtained from a local company called Sunrise Medical which designs and manufactures the devices. The new wheelchairs are completely free to use and are suitable for both children and adults.

Some popular parks in the state that offer all-terrain wheelchairs are Fall Creek Falls State Park, Cumberland Mountain State Park, and Radnor Lake State Park.

In addition to offering all-terrain wheelchairs, Tennessee State Parks enhance mobility by offering wheelchair-friendly paved trails and facilities such as accessible kayak and canoe launches.

National parks have also made important strides toward accessibility through various programs and services like the Access Pass. The Access Pass is a free, lifetime pass that grants U.S. citizens with disabilities entry to more than 2,000 recreation sites nationwide, including national parks, wildlife refuges, and forests. Furthermore, national parks provide specialized recreational equipment like adaptive bicycles, similar to Tennessee State Parks' all-terrain wheelchairs.

By continuously promoting accessibility, state-protected parks open up spaces where everyone, regardless of ability, can enjoy the beauty of Tennessee. Beyond improving a visitor’s experience, these measures foster inclusivity and belonging in America’s shared parks.

Tennessee State Parks now offer free, all-terrain wheelchairs in 10 parks, making them accessible in a total of 22 parks.

The parks also provide wheelchair-friendly paved trails and accessible facilities such as mobility-friendly kayak and canoe launches.

These efforts enhance visitor experiences and promote inclusivity so that anyone can experience the beauty of Tennessee's parks.

Tennessee State Parks: Website | Instagram | Facebook
h/t: [Scripps News]

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READ: 22 Tennessee State Parks Provide All-Terrain Wheelchairs to Enhance Accessibility for All

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MrBeast’s TeamSeas Initiative Pulls 34 Million Pounds of Trash From the Ocean https://mymodernmet.com/teamseas-mr-beast-ocean-cleanup/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} Thu, 18 Jul 2024 20:15:04 +0000 https://mymodernmet.com/?p=683646 MrBeast’s TeamSeas Initiative Pulls 34 Million Pounds of Trash From the Ocean

Nearly three years ago, MrBeast and TeamSeas started an initiative to raise $30 million to remove 30 million pounds of ocean trash. A few days ago, they announced that they had surpassed their goal, having pulled 34 million pounds of trash from the sea. It's a stunning achievement that shows the best side of content […]

READ: MrBeast’s TeamSeas Initiative Pulls 34 Million Pounds of Trash From the Ocean

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MrBeast’s TeamSeas Initiative Pulls 34 Million Pounds of Trash From the Ocean
TeamSeas and Mr Beast Successful Ocean Plastic Cleanup

Photo: Shnurochek13/Depositphotos

Nearly three years ago, MrBeast and TeamSeas started an initiative to raise $30 million to remove 30 million pounds of ocean trash. A few days ago, they announced that they had surpassed their goal, having pulled 34 million pounds of trash from the sea. It's a stunning achievement that shows the best side of content creation and pulling together online communities for the greater good.

With over 300 million subscribers to his YouTube channel, MrBeast has a lot of sway, which is evident in the results. The fundraiser started in 2021, with people encouraged to donate $1 to clean up one pound of trash. But people did much more than that. Not only did they donate, but they also got out, formed teams, and started cleaning local beaches and waterways.

And, thanks to MrBeast's online popularity, other content creators got involved, with over 400,000 contributing videos related to the cause. All the effort paid off, and according to TeamSeas, a third-party source verified the outcome.

This isn't MrBeast's first foray into philanthropy. The American YouTuber, who began posting videos when he was just 13, also runs the Beast Philanthropy channel, where he's done everything from helping those with sight issues receive surgery to adopting an orphanage.

He's also worked on environmental issues before. In October 2019, he teamed up with fellow YouTuber Mark Rober for TeamTrees and vowed to raise $20 million by January 1 to plant 20 million trees. That goal was surpassed before the self-imposed limit and, as of last month, over 24 million trees have been planted.

While some are critical of MrBeast's over-the-top videos and the motivations for his fundraising, there's no doubt that he's making an impact on the planet, one click at a time. And while the original TeamSeas goal is over, people are being encouraged to donate and support Ocean Conservancy and The Ocean Cleanup to keep the movement going.

International collaborative fundraising campaign TeamSeas has surpassed its original goal and cleaned up 34 million pounds of trash from the ocean.

The initiative was started in 2021 by popular American YouTuber MrBeast.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by TeamSeas (@teamseas)

Over 400,00 content creators made videos to support the fundraiser, which asked for $1 to clean up one pound of trash.

Ordinary people formed teams and competed to see who could do the best cleanup.

The success of TeamSeas proves that online communities can come together for the greater good.

MrBeast: YouTube | Twitter

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READ: MrBeast’s TeamSeas Initiative Pulls 34 Million Pounds of Trash From the Ocean

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Zambia Made Education Free and Young People Have Flocked to Classrooms To Learn https://mymodernmet.com/zambia-free-education/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} Thu, 18 Jul 2024 16:35:09 +0000 https://mymodernmet.com/?p=683126 Zambia Made Education Free and Young People Have Flocked to Classrooms To Learn

Education is a basic human right, but many children around the world don't have access to it. Luckily for the young people of Zambia, things changed a few years ago. In 2021, the government made schooling free for everyone. Since then, hoards of new students have gladly taken the chance earn an education and flocked […]

READ: Zambia Made Education Free and Young People Have Flocked to Classrooms To Learn

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Zambia Made Education Free and Young People Have Flocked to Classrooms To Learn

Education is a basic human right, but many children around the world don't have access to it. Luckily for the young people of Zambia, things changed a few years ago. In 2021, the government made schooling free for everyone. Since then, hoards of new students have gladly taken the chance earn an education and flocked to the country's classrooms. But this has also come with its own set of challenges.

After the implementation, 2 million additional children joined the educational system, with many more signing up every day. The free education includes primary and secondary school, which includes seven years for primary school, two years for junior secondary, and three years for senior secondary.

According to UNICEF, more children are now in school than ever before, and completion rates have increased at all levels in Sub-Saharan Africa. However, nine out of 10 children are unable to read and they only understand a simple story by the age of 10. This has been a key fact when preparing schools for the uptick of new students, as a disproportionate student-to-teacher ratio can impact the quality of the education, especially for those from low-income families.

Despite the setbacks, this initiative has improved the outlook for many who would otherwise not be able to afford an education. “I stopped going to school in 2016 when I was in grade four,” 18-year-old Mariana Chirwa told the BBC. “Without free education, I don’t know how my parents would have managed to take me back to school. They don’t work and just stay at home.”

Since the change, classrooms designed for 30 students have seen over 100 pupils. Many students show up early to guarantee they'll get a desk and most have to share a book with six or seven other students. “When I started in 2019, I had about 40 students, but now it’s around 100 plus, and that is just in one class,” says teacher Cleopatra Zulu, who admits that talking one-on-one and even grading has become a challenge.

To combat this, the government has launched mass production of desks, with mass infrastructure-building taking place to help lighten the load. There are also worries that government expenditure is estimated to double should all eligible students take up the offer of free education. Despite this, officials believe in education being the best economic policy. “This is a good problem,” says Education Minister Douglas Syakalima. “I’d rather let the children be in a congested classroom than in the street.”

In 2021, the government of Zambia made schooling free for everyone. Since then, millions of new students have gladly taken the chance to learn and flocked to the country's classrooms.

Despite the setbacks—like overcrowded classrooms–this initiative has improved the outlook for many who would otherwise not be able to afford an education.

Watch Education Minister Douglas Syakalima talk about how schools are constantly having to build new desks to accommodate the influx of students.

h/t: [BBC]

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READ: Zambia Made Education Free and Young People Have Flocked to Classrooms To Learn

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Presidential Library and Museum Will Host Film Festival To Celebrate Jimmy Carter’s 100th Birthday https://mymodernmet.com/jimmy-carter-100th-birthday-jc100-film-festival/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} Fri, 12 Jul 2024 16:35:22 +0000 https://mymodernmet.com/?p=681972 Presidential Library and Museum Will Host Film Festival To Celebrate Jimmy Carter’s 100th Birthday

The Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum will host the JC100 Film Festival, a celebratory gathering in honor of former President Jimmy Carter's upcoming 100th birthday. The Plaza Theatre and the Atlanta Film Society will sponsor the event and curate a selection of Carter’s favorite films, which have yet to be announced. The festival will […]

READ: Presidential Library and Museum Will Host Film Festival To Celebrate Jimmy Carter’s 100th Birthday

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Presidential Library and Museum Will Host Film Festival To Celebrate Jimmy Carter’s 100th Birthday
President Jimmy Carter

Photo: s_bukley/Depositphotos

The Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum will host the JC100 Film Festival, a celebratory gathering in honor of former President Jimmy Carter's upcoming 100th birthday. The Plaza Theatre and the Atlanta Film Society will sponsor the event and curate a selection of Carter’s favorite films, which have yet to be announced. The festival will feature four films screened inside the museum theaters during the day, with an additional screening outdoors in the Entry Garden in the evening.

The museum and the event will offer free admission to all attendees, providing an opportunity for anyone wishing to honor Jimmy Carter's legacy and celebrate his 100th birthday. In addition to the film screenings, festival attendees can enjoy various activities including access to food trucks, trivia games, crafts, and more, ensuring an engaging experience for all ages.

Carter, who served as the 39th President of the United States, has led a life marked by public service, humanitarian efforts, and unwavering commitment to peace. Since he departed from the White House in 1981, Carter has remained influential through his work with The Carter Center, which he co-founded with Rosalynn. The Carter Center has become renowned for its impactful achievements in promoting democracy, advancing human rights, and global health worldwide.

In particular, Carter and his foundation led one of the most successful public health campaigns in history by reducing the incidence of Guinea worm disease by over 99.99%, nearly eradicating it. Due to Carter’s significant contributions to public health and global peace, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002.

For over a year now, Carter has remained in hospice care in Plains, Georgia, his hometown. He has resided there since the recent passing of his wife and former First Lady, Rosalynn Carter, his partner for 77 years. At the age of 99, former President Carter is not only the oldest among the six living U.S. presidents but also the longest-lived president in the history of the nation.

The JC100 Film Festival will not just be a celebration of Jimmy Carter’s 100th birthday, but a tribute to a life spent in dedication towards others. It offers the public a chance to unite, reflect on Carter’s significant contributions, and celebrate the continuing legacy of one of America’s most beloved presidents. This celebration precedes Carter’s actual birthday on October 1 and is scheduled to run on September 28, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

President Jimmy Carter's upcoming 100th birthday will be a celebratory event for all to attend for free.

The Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum will be hosting the JC100 Film Festival on September 28 with film screenings and activities throughout the day.

The festival will offer free admission to both the museum and the event, inviting the public to celebrate Carter's legacy and milestone birthday.

Beyond its role as a birthday celebration, the festival will honor Carter's contributions to public service, humanitarian efforts, and global peace.

Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum: Website | Instagram | Twitter
h/t: [WSB-TV]

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READ: Presidential Library and Museum Will Host Film Festival To Celebrate Jimmy Carter’s 100th Birthday

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Ugandan Kids Dance Troupe Gains International Praise for Impressive Acrobatic Performances https://mymodernmet.com/hypers-kids-africa/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} Wed, 10 Jul 2024 14:45:11 +0000 https://mymodernmet.com/?p=680326 Ugandan Kids Dance Troupe Gains International Praise for Impressive Acrobatic Performances

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by hypers born talented (@hyperskidsafrica) Ugandan dance troupe Hypers Kids Africa has gained worldwide attention for its impressive dance performances. And now, they're gaining even more love thanks to a remarkable audition on season 19 of America's Got Talent. Dressed in red, black, and yellow […]

READ: Ugandan Kids Dance Troupe Gains International Praise for Impressive Acrobatic Performances

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Ugandan Kids Dance Troupe Gains International Praise for Impressive Acrobatic Performances

Ugandan dance troupe Hypers Kids Africa has gained worldwide attention for its impressive dance performances. And now, they're gaining even more love thanks to a remarkable audition on season 19 of America's Got Talent. Dressed in red, black, and yellow to pay homage to Uganda's flag, their wildly entertaining performance earned a standing ovation, and a thumbs-up from all four judges.

Watching the acrobatic dancers perform will bring a smile to your face, but their work is all the more impressive after learning more about their story. On stage, one of the young dancers mentioned that they hoped to win the TV talent contest to buy land and build a house and school. What he didn't mention is that Hypers Kids Africa isn't just a dance troupe; it's also an orphanage based in Kampala, Uganda's capital.

Run by brothers Moses and Marvin, the orphanage provides 45 children shelter, bedding, food, clothing, education, medical care, and sporting equipment. It's estimated that over 2.5 million orphans live in Uganda, with roughly one in five children having lost their parents. The AIDS crisis, years of civil unrest, and extreme poverty are all contributing factors to this crisis. That makes orphanages a critical resource for children who find themselves without relatives able to take them in.

For Hypers Kids Africa, dance is clearly a creative outlet. Their Instagram, which has over 7 million followers, is filled with captivating videos. Often dancing barefoot or in flip-flops, they can still execute impressive moves and intricate choreography. It's a testament to their talent that they grabbed the eyes of America's Got Talent and were asked to compete.

Now, their story will be opened up to an even wider public, who will not only appreciate them for their dance moves but also applaud them for their ability to overcome personal obstacles and arrive on the enormous platform that television provides. Scroll down for more of their incredible videos, and stay tuned to America's Got Talent to see if they can make it to the Live Performances round and take home the grand prize.

Hypers Kids Africa is a talented dance troupe from Uganda.

The group of young dancers recently impressed the judges during their audition on America's Got Talent.

All of the dancers are part of an orphanage in Uganda.

If they win the TV talent show, they will use their earnings to build themselves a home and a school.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by @marvin_uganda

Check out more of their impressive, acrobatic performances.

Hypers Kids Africa: Instagram | YouTube

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READ: Ugandan Kids Dance Troupe Gains International Praise for Impressive Acrobatic Performances

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