EP (62) Cassandra and Edison Lee: Educating and Empowering Communities Affected by War
Cassandra always knew she would work in a field that created positive change.
With Justice Rising, her husband and her were able to do just that. They now dedicate their lives to creating quality education for communities affected by war. They believe that education is the most powerful tool to create peace and break the cycle of war.
Edison was friends with Cassandra before they started their romantic relationship and he always admired her dedication to human rights issues and development work.
She had spent years traveling the world, to places like Southern Sudan, Northern Uganda, the DRC and North Korea, while working in many war torn communities. Her goal was to figure out a way to create lasting change. Within six months, she worked with a team to create the first school in the Congo.
Meanwhile, Edison had his own experience working in developing regions, like Zimbabwe, during a food crisis, public health issues and hyper inflation. He took on roles out of University, as a strategic consultant in East Africa, as well as an investment banker.
Edison knew that if he wanted to be apart of Cassandra's life, that they would need to figure out a common ground. Something that inspired them and propelled them forward. And so, they blended their skills together and created an incredible team to build up communities hit the hardest by war.
Justice Rising now builds peace in war-affected communities by providing quality education to children at risk. They build schools, train teacher leaders, and develop community programs towards the goal of promoting peace and mitigating future conflict.
They have a three pronged process. They identify areas of need and partner with local communities. Then they secure financing and start building their future school. And finally, they provide ongoing teacher and administrative support, so that their staff feels fully equipped to provide the best possible educational experience for the community.
What they do is truly remarkable. They continue to step into war torn communities with fear, but a renewed sense of hope and possibility.
To find out more and or support the work they do, please go to www.justicerising.com!
SOME QUESTIONS I ASKED:
Where did the inspiration for Justice Rising come from?
How did you guys get it off the ground initially?
Were you both interested in development work?
How do you manage your time between L.A and developing regions?
What's been the biggest benefit you've witness from the schools that you've built?
What has been the most difficult aspect of your jobs?
What's your biggest fear related to your job?
How do you see the future of Justice Rising?
What's your biggest accomplishment to date?
And so much more...
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN:
How to start something even before you're ready
How not to let fear govern your decision
Why you can work remotely and still have a life where you want to live
The importance of education and giving back
Why it's important to surround yourself with people who believe in your vision
How empowering others, empowers you
And lots more...
OTHER LINKS:
CONNECT WITH JUSTICE RISING
WEBSITE | DONATE| FACEBOOK| BLOG
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Edited by: James Nicholson