31 Dec Presenting on Humane Education in India
India Humane Education Tour 2025: A Journey of Compassion and Connection
In September 2025, Jacqueline Kelleher, Ambassador to the United Nations for Helen Woodward Animal Center, and Haylee Blake, Associate Director of Education for Helen Woodward Animal Center, embarked on a visit to India.
They visited for almost two weeks to promote humane education principles and strengthen relationships with students and educators from various Animal Fan Clubs. The tour, held in collaboration with Yuvsatta (Youth for Peace), brought together passionate young advocates for animal welfare across Delhi, Chandigarh, and Hoshiarpur.
Delhi | September 24–25
The visit began in New Delhi, where the team was warmly welcomed by hosts from KIIT World School Gurugram. On September 25, activities commenced at KIIT World School with a presentation on “Remember Me Thursday.” During the session, the team shared a poignant poem and led an educational discussion on animal euthanasia awareness. Additionally, they taught safe interaction practices with stray dogs. In response, students shared interactive experiences with rescue dogs that fostered empathy and confidence. Meanwhile, the group discussed the school’s commitment to peace and eco-conscious living. The visit concluded with promises of continued collaboration and updates from the Animal Fan Club.
Chandigarh | September 26–27
The next stop was Chandigarh, where the delegation visited New World School and GD Goenka Public School, Mohali. The New World School welcomed Jackie and Haylee with a series of cultural musical and dance performances. GD Goenka hosted a heartfelt traditional Indian welcome, transforming the campus into a “global classroom.”
Later that day, the team met with the Kitabghar Program, an initiative empowering marginalized girls in the Chandigarh slums through creative learning. Jackie and Haylee spoke to the girls about what part they play in making the world a more sustainable place. Jackie and Haylee were able to then take part in a celebration with the girls who had birthdays in the month of September. It was heartwarming to visit this group as their mentors provide them with skills they would not otherwise have access to.
On September 27, a special session was hosted at Dev Samaj College of Education, where the NSS units and Animal Fan Club organized a joint program on “Animal Welfare”.
Here is an example of some of the activities that these college students have participated in during the school year:
Floral welcomes set the tone for an inspiring exchange of global perspectives. Drawing from their international experience, Jackie and Haylee shared best practices in humane education. They also discussed the challenges and opportunities facing animal protection organizations worldwide. The session encouraged dialogue on volunteerism, community engagement, and sustainable solutions. A student-led skit on animal welfare beautifully captured the day’s message. This school was unique in the sense that it was a training center for Educators, so Haylee and Jackie referenced that in their presentation.
Jackie and Haylee led an interactive workshop titled “How Humans Can Live Harmoniously with Nature and Animals” at each school. They focused on practical lessons on eco-friendly living and sustainable coexistence. Students enthusiastically participated in hands-on activities and received eco-friendly and creative gifts to encourage continued action. The gifts included a dog bowl, a sticker reading ‘Respect Nature, Love Animals’ and a Remember Me Thursday pin and poem. Each school meeting concluded with the presentation of a Certificate of Appreciation, marking a meaningful milestone in international collaboration.
Hoshiarpur | September 28–29
On September 29, the team participated in the Global Seminar of the Animal Fan Club at Guru Gobind Singh Public School in Hoshiarpur. To begin with, the seminar opened with a presentation by Mr. Pardeep Singh, Club In-charge, followed by remarks from Principal Harjit Singh. During his address, he announced a vision to establish a Nature Park and an NGO to engage students in hands-on animal welfare and environmental initiatives.
Next, Jackie and Haylee shared inspiring insights on harmonious coexistence between humans, animals, and nature. In particular, they emphasized compassion and global citizenship as essential values. Furthermore, activities focused on pollinators and a guided campus tour which reinforced the overall theme of peace and coexistence.
Meanwhile, the cultural showcase featured Gurbani Shabad, patriotic dances, a play on animal conservation, and a spirited Giddha performance. Together, these performances celebrated India’s rich heritage and strong commitment to compassion. Finally, the day concluded with a felicitation ceremony, which marked a memorable close to the school tour.
Here is an example of some of the activities that these students have participated in during the school year:
Animal Fan Club Activity – Guru Gobind Singh Public School, Hoshiarpur
Chandigarh | September 30 – October 2
Jackie and Haylee returned to Chandigarh to participate in Yuvsatta’s Global Youth Peace Festival. First, this three-day festival featured international speakers who discussed themes related to peace, sustainability, and youth participation. Additionally, Jackie and Haylee delivered a presentation titled “How Humans Can Live Harmoniously with Nature and Animals.” Moreover, the presentation was carefully adjusted to suit the audience, which included students from the Chandigarh Institute of Hospitality Management. Overall, their comments were well received, and as a result, a student named Shota expressed enthusiasm about starting her own “Animal Fan Club”.
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