ABOUT US

About Global Enlightenment Academy

At Global Enlightenment Academy, we believe that the current educational system falls short of meeting the unique needs of our children.

The world around us is constantly changing and we are living in an era where artificial intelligence (AI) is the future and is here to stay. We need more specialized knowledge and skills to utilize and expand our mental faculties. We must become thinkers to outperform AI, and leave the entry-level jobs to the robots to perform

Master ai
Learning experience
At GEA, we are committed to providing a transformative learning experience that integrates living, studying, and working in harmony with nature on a sustainable campus.

Our goal is to empower individuals to become responsible and productive global citizens who are equipped to succeed in an ever-changing world. It is important that we actively contribute to creating an eco-friendly environment for future generations.

We hold a deep reverence for Mother Nature and all living beings. We will strive to be environmentally conscious and sustainable in all our practices, promoting responsible stewardship of the earth and advocating for the protection of our natural resources.

Mother nature
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Our why is to make a positive difference in the lives of people and the new generation, and leave a lasting legacy behind. We envision our academy as a lighthouse that guides our future children to follow their dreams and grow into compassionate, mindful, and purpose-driven individuals. We are passionate about getting back to nature and bringing ourselves closer in touch with our mother Earth, creating a harmonious community that inspires collective growth and transformation.

Our collective spirit of harmony will be the foundation of our community, fostering inclusivity, diversity, and empathy.

We will encourage mutual respect, open communication, and collaboration among our community members, creating a positive and supportive environment where everyone can thrive.

We will measure our success through meaningful impacts on the lives of our community members, as well as our contributions to the well-being of the environment and society at large. Regular evaluations and feedback will guide our continuous improvement, ensuring that we remain aligned with our mission and values.

Collective spirit

Imagine Visiting Global Enlightenment Academy

Our campus
Welcome to Global Enlightenment Academy, where we invite you to step into a world of learning, connection, and growth. Our campus offers a variety of transportation options, including bikes, scooters, and a small train to help you navigate the beautiful grounds.
You’ll discover our Meditation and Yoga Garden, a Spa Retreat Center, and a lake surrounded by camping areas where children can engage in activities that connect them with nature. In the heart of our campus stands a tall lighthouse, a beacon of our commitment to guidance and enlightenment, surrounded by a pool, hot tubs, and cabanas for relaxation.
Spa retreat
Maryam 1

The Global Enlightenment Academy features an organic farm, an animal rescue sanctuary, and monthly cultural festivals. Our classrooms, library, science lab, and creation rooms provide spaces for learning and creativity, while our indoor kitchen and stage host communal meals and performances.

Just south of our animal rescue farm lies our vibrant outdoor festival and sports field—a lively hub on our campus! Each month, we host cultural celebrations with live music, delicious food, and an open invitation for the public to join. We also collaborate with local business owners, offering them the chance to showcase and promote their products and services.
Sport field

Global Enlightenment Academy is prepared to support tens of thousands on their journey toward transformative change. Above all, we value our community’s voice and are dedicated to adapting to the unique and evolving challenges they face every day.

Global Enlightenment Academy & Community exists to empower individuals to discover their true purpose and develop essential life skills through a supportive, inclusive, and nature-connected community. Born from the unique experiences of our founder, Maryam Sharifi, our mission is to create a harmonious environment where people of all ages can learn, grow, and thrive. We aim to bridge generational gaps, foster personal growth, and inspire positive global change by providing holistic education, mentorship, and a strong sense of community.

Finding Your True Purpose and Calling

Many individuals struggle to discover their true calling in life. For instance, a friend attended law school solely to fulfill her father’s wishes, as he was an attorney. After graduating and passing the bar, she handed her diploma to her father and pursued her real passion—travel writing. She has since traveled the world, publishing articles in travel magazines, and finding true fulfillment in her chosen path.

Challenges in the Educational System

Our current educational system often falls short in addressing the needs of 21st-century students. Many graduates find themselves burdened with significant student debt and end up in jobs unrelated to their fields of study, leading to dissatisfaction and a lack of hope for a brighter future. For example, a bright child who loves science often gets into trouble at school out of boredom. However, he becomes highly focused when watching educational science videos on YouTube, highlighting the potential for more engaging educational methods. Instead of nurturing creativity, we often label kids who can’t sit still as having ADHD and push them towards medication.

Empowering Kids Instead of Suppressing Their Creativity

We believe in fostering an environment where children’s questions and curiosity are respected and encouraged. By nurturing their true interests and talents, we can help them discover their purpose in life. Children possess an innate potential to create a better world, but we often stifle their creativity by enforcing strict obedience. History is full of innovators who broke the rules to change the world; we should learn from them and empower our kids.

Addressing Technology and Isolation

The rise of technology has led to increased isolation, particularly among children. Social media and reclusive lifestyles contribute to a sense of disconnection. We believe in the importance of community and aim to create a supportive environment where people can connect positively.

Reconnecting with Nature

Modern lifestyles often distance us from nature. At Global Enlightenment Academy, we prioritize outdoor activities like organic gardening, animal rescue, and tree planting to help children reconnect with the earth. Our campus, set on expansive ranch land, offers fresh air, hands-on experiences, and outdoor classrooms, all while fostering an eco-friendly, sustainable community.

At Global Enlightenment Academy & Community, we are committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where individuals of all ages can discover their true purpose and develop essential life skills. Our founder, Maryam Sharifi, draws from her unique experiences to create a space where lifelong learners can thrive, connect with nature, and build meaningful relationships. We aim to bridge generational gaps, empower women, and nurture the potential of children, providing the guidance and resources necessary for personal and collective growth. Our mission is to inspire, educate, and support our community in creating a brighter, more harmonious world.

At Global Enlightenment Academy & Community, we believe in the power of lifelong learning, self-discovery, and holistic well-being. We believe in 3 simple principles inspired by ancient Persian Culture: Think Good Thoughts, Speak Good Words, and Do Good Deeds. As well as honoring the Golden Rules, and the Platinum rules.

At Global Enlightenment Academy & Community, we believe in the power of lifelong learning, self-discovery, and holistic well-being. We are committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and diverse environment where individuals of all ages can pursue their passions, develop essential life skills, and connect with nature. Guided by our values of respect, growth, and harmony, we aim to foster a supportive community that inspires personal and collective transformation, ensuring everyone has the resources and guidance needed to lead conscious, purposeful lives.

The GEA RoadMap

How are we going to bring this beautiful vision to reality?

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Global Enlightenment Academy and Community is a safe space and environment for your gift, your expertise, and your contribution. Choose from the above areas of need and join or lead our pods to fulfill our mission of bringing this vision to reality.

The Homeless Project: Annual Thanksgiving Support Event

September 1, 2024

Every year, as Thanksgiving approaches, we come together to support our homeless community by gathering donations, clothes, and necessities. Our mission is to bring warmth and comfort to those in need through our Giving Bags and homemade meals.

HOW YOU CAN PARTICIPATE

  • LOCAL SUPPORT: Join our team to help organize and execute this event. Contact us at Gea.Academy1002@gmail.com, or call us at 818-577-0828.
  • NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL SUPPORT: Contribute by purchasing a Giving Bag for a $50.00 donation. Your generosity helps provide essential items and a sense of hope to those less fortunate.

WHAT’S INSIDE THE GIVING BAG

  • Socks
  • Gloves
  • Snacks (granola bars, nuts, etc.)
  • Water bottle (we encourage non-plastic bottles)
  • Hand sanitizer
  • And more!
  • Toothbrush and Toothpaste
  • Comb
  • Shaving tools for men
  • Flushable wipes
  • Soap

ADDITIONAL PLANS

We are contacting grocery stores for donations of recyclable bags and food items such as fruits, canned goods, nuts, and other nonperishable items.

Share your resources for location and delivery! Join us for a fun and meaningful event where volunteers come together to prepare Giving Bags for distribution

CONTACT US FOR MORE INFORMATION

  • EMAIL: Gea.Academy1002@gmail.com
  • CONTACT NUMBER: 954-372-0054.
  • WEBSITE: www.GlobalEnlightenmentAcademy.com
  • FACEBOOK: Global Enlightenment Academy & Community
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Matthew pic (1)
Matthew Collinson
Creative Paths Strategist

As the Creative Paths Strategist at the helm of Collinson Creations, Matthew Collinson is a visionary leader who specializes in transforming abstract visions into tangible realities across a spectrum of creative services including document creation, digital graphics, video, and audio editing. His entrepreneurial spirit is set to expand his venture into a comprehensive creative agency.

Beyond his business, Matthew is significantly contributing to the Global Enlightenment Academy by strategizing and co-developing an eBook with Maryam Sharifi. This project, which documents Maryam’s history and includes vision-building exercises, aligns with the academy’s aim to build a self-sustaining resort and community for shared knowledge and collaborative living. Through both Collinson Creations and his work with the Global Enlightenment Academy, Matthew embodies the essence of innovation and collaboration, dedicated to empowering individuals to manifest their visions and foster a global community of enlightened minds.

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Student volunteer

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