“Anything goes!” Aaron Densham exclaimed when describing the the Bloom Collective's education philosophy. Raised in an atmosphere of progressive teaching programs focused on self-reflection, Aaron went on to intern at an orphanage in Rwanda where he implemented similar innovative teaching methods. Co-founding Bloom in 2014, the organization has brought the approach to communities and schools in Israel, India and of course his native Australia. Speaking from Melbourne (and a whole day in the future!) we talked about what his young organization has already accomplished and what plans they have going forward. I also learn why he enjoys spraying shaving cream at students. You know, outside of the obvious.
During the interview, we refer to the Plato's Allegory of the Cave. If you need a refresher here's a nice little video courtesy of TED.
Links!
- The Bloom Collective's home page goes into even more detail about what they do.
- It turns out I wasn't the first the first to get to Aaron--here is his interview with The Well.
- Their Facebook page is worth a look for some of the pictures alone!
I was inadvertently dodging Aaron for a while but he stuck with me and I couldn't be happier. It's always good to talk with and be inspired by a fellow teacher. Plus it was great getting to know him and Bloom a little better. My thanks to him for being gracious with his time. Also, another thanks goes out to Babita Patel (learn more here) for continuing to connect me with exciting and engaging nonprofit leaders. And I should mention I stumbled across the key to her wonderful connections: the Global Social Impact House in Pennsylvania. Check out this video to learn more. Keep an eye out for a cameo from both Babita and Aaron.
Music Credits:
Additional music: http://www.bensound.com
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