“Working for Jason...wasn't. That is, it wasn't work. Instead, it was one of the most creative and inspiring experiences I've had -- ever. Helping Jason articulate his vision and connect with the people and organizations who *need* his insights was a joy and delight, for he is not an ordinary speaker with an ordinary message. He's a visionary, graced with the ability to inspire, inform, influence and IMPROVE. He's a difference-maker, a life-changer, and that I played a role -- a small one, but a role nonetheless -- in helping him perform his important work remains one of the highlights of my career. Frankly, the world needs more Jason Connell, and when I see him on CNN, on the cover of Time, winning the Nobel Peace Prize or, hey, even asking me for my vote, I'm going to say: "AHA! I knew it!" And I'm sure I won't be the only one -- not even close.”

-Jason Kalra,
Consultant,

“I was completely clueless about fundraising until Jason gave a workshop to a team of volunteers going to Uganda this summer. Jason explained how to raise money for the cause and for our trip. His training and workshop was very informative, funny, engaging and proved to be extremely effective. At the end Jason took the time to answer my personal questions. Using many of the strategies that Jason suggested, I raised over $2,000 at my fundraising event. I never imagined reaching my fundraising goal in one night! Jason gave me the know-how and the confidence I needed to build an effective and successful fundraiser helping me raise all the money I needed for my volunteer trip”

-Katrina Kaiser,
International Volunteer,
CVAP

“Jason Connell's "Changing the World 101" is an empowering and transformational experience.  Our students are moved emotionally - and moved to action - with students following dreams of service to Africa and beyond.  We've hosted Jason two years in a row now, and each time I receive numerous comments from students on how this was one of the highest quality encounters they've had in their college life.  It is Powerful!”

-Rodney Ekstrom,
Plymouth State University,
Assistant Director of Student Activities

“Did he say that you can actually change the World? 

Well, yes in fact he did.  Jason Connell’s volunteer experiences in the developing world and passion towards making the world a better place are heavily integrated into his presentation: Changing the World 101. 

Jason’s presentation and the stories that he has to share bring a harsh reality to the viewer’s attention:  that there are people all over the world that are subjected to poverty, violence, and disease with little hope of aid or recovery.  Yet Jason stands as a shining example of an individual who is able to shrink overwhelming odds and have a positive impact on those less fortunate. 

Changing the World 101 teaches people of all ages and backgrounds the importance of facing your fears and how to volunteer internationally in order to have mind-expanding, life blowing experiences while helping others.

I first met Jason when he came to speak at Plymouth State University.  Jason was very outgoing and willing to spend extra time with several student organizations and even ran a workshop series on his own time.  Jason has the knowledge and experience to provide people with opportunities on how to volunteer internationally, obtain funding for their volunteer experience, and how to overcome unfathomable odds.

So, does that answer your question?  Good, because Jason is living proof of the power an individual can have in the world. 

I now have the honor and privilege to call Jason a friend.  He has been highly active in my own volunteer experiences in Uganda.  Ultimately without the help of Jason, my international humanitarian work would not have been possible.

Changing the World 101 opened up doors for new experiences, and gave not only myself but also my peers the opportunity to get a look inside cultures around the globe and how to integrate within those communities.

I highly recommend Jason’s presentation not only for its content, but the message and example that the speaker brings to the table.  Jason has the ability to grab and captivate an audience and leave them feeling empowered and inspired to go out and change the world. 

-Bryan Funk,
Plymouth State University,
Student Government President, 2010-2011

“

As the Vice President of Concordia University's Federation of Arts and Science Federation of Associations, I represent thousands of undergraduate students. Many modern students are looking for opportunities above and beyond those offered by immediately entering the work force or continuing on to graduate school. These students want to see the world, they want to lead fulfilling lives, and they want to begin tackling the big-picture problems that our generation is inheriting.

However, when it comes to actively getting involved with the global community even those who are passionate about improving the quality of life on earth tend to feel directionless.

This is where Jason Connell comes in. After hearing about Changing the World 101 from a friend, I contacted Jason directly. Jason took the time to understand my goals and those of the students he would be addressing. He wanted to ensure that he could provide us with valuable information and experience.

Working with Jason was a pleasure. He kept me involved, ensuring all the way that the presentation he delivered was a perfect fit for my students.

Jason exceeded even our highest expectations. His talk gave students a fresh perspective on life in the developing world. More importantly he explained step by step how students could get involved with service in some of the world's poorest countries. Each step was accessible for the average student.

After Jason's talk numerous students told me that he was one of the most relevant and engaging speakers they had ever heard. They said that he left them inspired and equipped to get involved with the poorest and least fortunate regions of our planet. In fact several of the students I represent are now getting involved in the developing world because of Jason. 

Jason's talk sets students down the path of enlightened leadership and responsible global citizenry.

-Dane Perera,
Concordia University,
Vice President of the Arts and Science Federation of Associations 2009 - 2010

“I have always known that my planet was burdened with intense human suffering, but I never felt like I had the ability to make a difference until I saw Jason Connell's talk. Jason's stories about life in the developing world were extremely moving. In fact some of the audience members were driven to tears by Jason's stories.

However, what I really like is that Jason doesn't just discuss problems, he also poses solutions and ways for college students to begin getting involved today. I left Jason's talk inspired and equipped to begin taking action in the developing world.
”

-Michael deLone,
University of New Hampshire,
Alumni

“Jason is quite possibly the most relatable speaker we have ever brought in. His ability to talk in a meaningful and personal way, about very serious issues facing our planet and its inhabitants is impressive. Throw in the fact that he is just out of college himself and you are left with an academically stimulating, quick witted, and real-world lecture on how people in our generation can get involved in a hands on way. Not preachy, or haughty, Jason delivers a talk that’s perfect for any intellectually curious student body.”

-William Stoetzer,
Stetson University,
Student Government President 2007 - 2008

“Jason Connell delivered a phenomonal keynote speech for Colgate University’s HIV/AIDS awareness campaign. He was articulate and deeply engaging. Jason naturally related to the students who left feeling inspired by his passion for effectively creating a better world. Students actually thanked me for having him.”

-David Gelman,
Colgate University,
Student leader

“Looking for someone to inspire and empower students? Looking for someone to help students get a better understanding of life on earth, especially in the developing countries? Looking for someone to connect to college students as few speakers can? Then be sure to consider Jason Connell.

I am talking from the experience after having invited Jason a number of times to speak in my classes, especially the  “Challenge of Peace” class. He was so well received that he was later invited to peak to some 250 students as part of the First Year Studies Program. His discussion on HIV/AIDS and poverty issues in South Africa as well as his take on international conflicts in Uganda are the result of his first hand experience as a volunteer in both of these countries.

I must tell you that some of the students were moved to tears by his challenging, personal, and down-to-earth presentation. Some actually decided to engage in volunteer programs in developing countries.

Jason, fresh out of college, “connects” with college students. He engages them as he speaks their language even as he presents himself with a professional and engaging demeanor. He is particularly adept at addressing the myths that prevent students from acting. He talks about how much easier it is for people to get involved than it seems as he suggests ways for students to elicit funding for volunteering in developing countries. He concludes with the negative and positive effects of international development as well as how students can get involved, both at home as well as by traveling internationally. He also fields questions with the same engaging and professional demeanor as his presentation.

The Office of Student Development has just negotiated with Jason to return to Rivier College for yet another presentation during the 2009-2010 academic year. His message fits perfectly well with our mission of transforming hearts and minds to serve the world.

If you are interested in Changing the World 101 from the perspective of someone who speaks passionately from experience, I recommend Jason Connell without any reservations whatsoever.

-Dr. Paul Demers,
Rivier College,
Chaplain

“I have always wanted to volunteer my time, but I never understood how to go about doing so – my life is busy already and the problems of the world seem too big. Then one e-mail changed everything. It was about a presentation coming to Rivier given by a recent college graduate who decided to take on one big challenge: make the world a better place.

My friends and I went to see Jason's talk, and it wasn’t just moving - it was life-changing. Literally. He spoke about his travels and his volunteer efforts including his work at an HIV/AIDS relief camp in South Africa. He spoke about why we shouldn't be afraid to go out and help the world, to try and make it a better place for everyone. He was very encouraging about how ANYONE can help, no matter how big or how small.

I left Jason’s talk with one thing in mind: I can do anything. I know it sounds cliche, but it's the truth. I have personally been inspired by Jason. Because of his presentation I applied to volunteer in South Africa, and have been accepted!

Jason has really made a difference in my life, as well as so many others.”

-Jess Linehan,
Rivier College,
Student

“I really think that Jason Connell's presentation was 'spot on' in highlighting the contrasting benefits and negatives of the globalization process based on his person travel experience in Africa, Asia, and Europe. Jason has a very genuine and powerful presentation style that works unbelievably well for our students... You could have heard the sound of a pin dropping at various points during his lecture. The students were engaged and interested. Thanks again for taking the time to come all the way to this corner of Vermont.”

-Dr. Eric Drouart,
Southern Vermont College,
Chairperson, Business Department

“

Jason, I would like to thank you again so much for coming to Plymouth State!! Your presentation and workshops were really helpful and relevant to us. You made me realize that I too can volunteer globally and help make a better planet. Again thanks so much for everything, hope you'll be around again and best of luck in your future endeavors!

-Allison Shenloogian,
Plymouth State University,
Student

“Jason, I absolutely loved your presentation and workshops. I greatly benefited from both because you presented logical and realistic solutions for realizing one's dreams of traveling and volunteering internationally. Immediately after your workshops my roommate and I decided that no matter what, we are going to begin seeing the world for ourselves. We wasted no time and began generating realistic ideas for our trips to the developing world. Thanks! ”

-Haley Sciola,
Plymouth State University,
Student

“Jason is not only an expert on globalization, he is also a captivating speaker. His presentation was an inspiring look at how to improve life around the world and was one of the best I've seen!”

-Marguerite Fenwood,
Sarah Lawrence College,
Student

“Jason, thank you so much for being part of our panel during the UNH Basic Injustice campus engagement week. Your infectious passion to change the world and those around you resonated through your words and allowed students to explore their direction in life. Thank you for bringing a fresh look to an old idea.
”

-University of New Hampshire,
Basic Injustice Team,
Student Club