The Modesto Project: Empowering Communities Through Nano Funds  

My name is Eric Newman, a 9th-grade student—and yes, Nicole’s twin brother! I’ve been an active member of the Newman Global Initiative (NGI) since I was nine, and over the years, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with remarkable organizations and individuals. Now, in May 2025, I’m thrilled to share a new endeavor I’ve been …

Unlocking Potential: Empowering Young Learners Through AI with Project Butterfly Voice

As part of our ongoing vision for inclusive education, my team and I are thrilled to continue building upon the Newman Global Initiative’s impactful “Project Butterfly.” The next phase, “Butterfly Voice,” will elevate this initiative even further through the integration of conversational AI. This innovative technology will not only enhance reading comprehension but also provide …

“Making a Dif” ference: Spring into Action for Food Security

As spring arrives, we eagerly anticipate reconnecting with our community at the “Gut Walk,” supporting Crohn’s and Colitis Canada. While many, including myself, await college decisions, our focus shifts to summer initiatives addressing global food security. The gravity of this issue is highlighted by World Bank data. Food insecurity persists at alarming levels, particularly in …

Blooming in the Face of Crohn’s: My Journey with The Lotus Project

When most of my friends were going to dance classes or sleepovers, I was by my mom’s side, holding her hand or making her toast. At six, I didn’t understand why she was always sick, losing weight, and in the hospital for weeks. My mom suffers from Crohn’s disease, a condition that causes inflammation in …

Equitable Access to Cancer Treatment: Breaking Down Barriers

Equitable access to medical treatment for cancer patients is a critical issue that affects health outcomes and overall quality of life. Cancer treatments, such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies, can be costly and are often beyond the financial reach of many patients, especially when not fully covered by public health systems. In …