Educators Explore Entrepreneurship and Global Citizenship at “What’s My Business?” Workshops
Educators from across LESNW and LEVNT recently gathered to explore ALWS “What’s My Business?” workshops, a dynamic professional learning event designed to equip teachers with the tools and confidence to run this innovative, student-led project.
Facilitated by CeliaFielke and Josie Wundersitz from Australian Lutheran World Service (ALWS) and supported by Regional Office Education Leaders Andrew Bradtke (LESNW) and Kim Powell (LEVNT). Participants engaged in rich professional conversations around how “What’s My Business?” could be embedded into classroom practice, with an emphasis on authentic learning and global citizenship.
‘What’s My Business?’ is an authentic and powerful student-led multi-disciplinary curriculum unit that schools run in partnership with ALWS.
Students learn about the work of ALWS in the field and about Village Savings and Loans groups that operate in communities to help kickstart small businesses.
Students see the links between what they are doing in their small business unit, and the real-life applications and life-changing work that happens in the developing world.
Students develop their own small business ideas, apply for a loan, create a product and sell it on “Market Day” using any profits to help support someone to start their own business in a community in need.
The workshops provided a valuable opportunity for educators new to the project to explore the basics of planning and implementation, while those with experience gained insights from one another, sharing stories of impact and refining their approaches.
A key highlight was exploring the rich array of resources offered by ALWS, which support students in connecting their business ventures with real-world issues and the stories of people impacted by poverty and displacement. These resources not only deepen the learning experience but also bring a strong sense of purpose to the entrepreneurial projects.
A heartfelt thank you to all the teachers who participated for their enthusiastic engagement, thoughtful questions, and collaborative spirit. Your dedication to fostering purposeful, student-led learning is what brings projects like “What’s My Business?” to life in schools.
To learn more about the project and access resources, visit the ALWS website here.
Participant reflections captured the impact of the day:
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