Roots of Renewal

Throughout my life, I often encountered narrow-minded views about humanitarian efforts abroad. One encounter stands out vividly in my memory: whilst advocating and fundraising for deep water wells in Uganda, a neighbor refused to contribute, telling me, "I think children in America should be helped first before children abroad." This comment, though well-intentioned, highlighted a common misunderstanding about the interconnectedness of our world and the shared humanity that binds us all.

This moment was a catalyst for me. It underscored the need for a broader perspective on human rights and sustainable development. Helping children abroad doesn't diminish our ability to help those at home; rather, it enriches our global community and creates a more compassionate, interconnected world. Throughout my childhood trips to India, I've witnessed firsthand the living conditions of those trapped in the systemic cycle of poverty abroad, these lived experiences shaped my worldview and motivated me to take action. Just from organizing a community-based drive, allowing me to supply over 50,000 supplies to at-risk students in rural parts of India, I realized how little people knew and acknowledged these humanitarian crises abroad. 

With this realization, I founded Roots of Renewal, an international network of youth-led advocacy groups dedicated to promoting human rights and sustainable development in developing countries. Our vision is to foster a generation of global citizens who understand that our well-being is intrinsically linked to the well-being of others, no matter where they are in the world.

At Roots of Renewal, we believe that the challenges faced by communities across the globe are interconnected, just as our solutions must be. The health, education, and prosperity of a child in one part of the world can have profound effects on the lives of children elsewhere. By recognizing our shared humanity, we can break down the artificial borders that divide us and work towards a future where every individual, regardless of their birthplace, has the opportunity to thrive.

Through education, advocacy, and grassroots initiatives, we aim to empower young people to take action and drive positive change, as we believe the roots of our future starts with the youth. Our projects are designed not only to address immediate needs but also to foster long-term, sustainable development that benefits entire communities. Together, we can make a difference that transcends borders and brings us closer to a future where every child, everywhere, has the opportunity to thrive. Please join us in creating that root of renewal, planting the seeds for a brighter, more equitable tomorrow.

Ethan Patel, 

Founder