Lately the headlines have been jammed full of disappointing, intense and gruesome news. You can’t help but sit back and wonder what our beautiful world has come to. Where is the goodness in people and why are we so focused on violence and destruction? But even amidst all the negativity – and although you have to dig – there’s a light. A bright spot in the rubble. This week’s bright spot: the announcement and story of Maggie Doyne, CNN’s 2015 Hero of the Year. At a recent star-studded awards ceremony in New York City, Maggie was recognized for taking hard-earned babysitting money and turning it into a mission to transform a community. Here are a few highlights of Maggie’s story, and for the full CNN article, click here.
Above: Maggie Doyne. Image via IdealistCareers.org.
Nearly ten years ago, on a back-packing trip to Nepal, Maggie Doyne was inspired to start a movement and save a community. “Spending $5,000 in savings from her babysitting days, Doyne bought land and worked with the community to build a school, a women’s center and the Kopila Valley Children’s Home. Doyne’s BlinkNow Foundation supports these efforts.”
Watch Maggie’s story here:
Here’s what Maggie had to say when she accepted here Hero of the Year Award: “If you had told me when I turned 18 that I was going to be the mom of 50 kids, I would have told you that you were totally crazy. And I am. And to my kids, I love you so much. Don’t ever forget how much I love you. And to the country of Nepal, thank you so much for loving me and accepting me as a daughter welcoming me into your country.” (via CNN)
Maggie is the perfect example of how one person can change the world we live in. How following your heart and putting your energy toward good can build community, save lives and help people thrive. Her story was built on nothing but heartfelt passion and a commitment to the world we’re all a part of.
“And to all of you in this room and who are watching, please, please remember that we have the power to create the world that we want to live in, just as we want it. And that’s what all the Heroes here have done tonight.”
