Breaking Chains: Unveiling Forgotten Voices in Our Global History, a guest post by Fahad Siddiqui

As we navigate the currents of the 21st century, one thing is abundantly clear: the trajectory of history has been shaped by a multitude of voices, yet many of these voices remain unheard. In our classrooms and libraries, the tales of Western Europeans and their successes often dominate the shelves and lesson time, but what about the unsung heroes, the trailblazers from across the globe who have played pivotal roles in shaping our world?
Let’s embark on a journey of discovery, transcending dominant narratives and embracing the rich tapestry of our combined human history. As the co-founder of Our Story Media, a venture dedicated to rewriting the narrative, I am passionate about the value of introducing such historical role models into our educational spaces.
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Education 4.0/ Restructuring Education
Interestingly, the World Economic Forum has created a framework for education designed around skill sets needed for modern-day careers. It is known as Education 4.0 due to the idea of society being in a 4th industrial revolution due to technological advances. Our Story aims to help students succeed within the Global Citizenship category. It is one of the ‘essential competencies” and is defined as, “The ability to understand, appreciate and engage with people from different cultures, backgrounds and experiences, and to act responsibly in a globalized world.” The WEF goes on to say, “Global citizenship is not an optional extra, it is a core competency that all learners need to develop.”
The Power of Multiculturalism in Education
Our classrooms should be mirrors reflecting the diversity of our world. The National Council for Social Studies (NCSS) emphasizes the importance of multicultural education in improving critical thinking skills and encouraging students to question assumptions and biases. By exposing learners to different perspectives, we equip them with the tools to navigate the complexities of our interconnected globe.
In a world where the internet connects us more than ever, it’s vital to go beyond borders and traditional narratives. Multicultural education is not just about learning facts; it’s about fostering a mindset that embraces and celebrates differences.
Unveiling Hidden Stories
Consider this: how many students know about Mansa Musa, the West African King who, in the 14th century, was arguably the richest person ever? The tales of his grand pilgrimage across the Sahara, his wealth surpassing today’s billionaires when adjusted for inflation, are not mere historical footnotes; they’re windows into an era of African prosperity that defies stereotypes.

Our Story Series seeks to illuminate forgotten stories, not just from Africa but from every corner of the globe. From the bustling markets of Timbuktu to the scholarly achievements of the world’s first university in Morocco founded by Fatima Al-Fihri in 859 AD, these stories are a testament to the breadth and depth of human accomplishment.
The Call for Representation
Representation matters. In our increasingly interconnected world, students need to see themselves in the narratives they encounter. The lack of representation can send a disheartening message, suggesting that only certain stories are worthy of attention. The Our Story Series introduces young readers to role models who look like them–ones who overcome challenges and leave lasting legacies.
When students see individuals who resemble them achieving greatness, it sparks the flame of possibility. It says, “You can do it too.” For those who do not resemble these figures, the knowledge of what they have achieved influences how they perceive those that do.

Fostering Critical Thinking Through Diverse Narratives
Diverse role models not only offer a more accurate reflection of history but also enhance critical thinking skills. Our Story Series incorporates ‘Let’s Think,’ ‘Let’s Discuss,’ and ‘Let’s Make’ sections, stimulating engagement and encouraging readers to analyze, question, and create. These activities go beyond rote memorization, nurturing a generation of critical thinkers equipped to face the complexities of the modern world. With the teacher packs we developed, we provide educators with the tools needed to create engaging lesson plans around the stories.
A Journey Beyond The Current System
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Imagine a classroom where students, captivated by stories of unknown heroes and heroines, become enthusiastic learners. The narrative expands beyond kings and queens, embracing the richness of our shared human experience.
As a global citizen who has lived in many parts of the world, I’ve witnessed the transformative power of diverse narratives. Our classrooms are microcosms of our societies, and the stories we tell shape the minds of future leaders, innovators, and thinkers.
In conclusion, let’s redefine our educational landscape. Let’s go beyond the familiar tales, welcoming new historical role models into our classrooms and libraries. By doing so, we empower the next generation to embrace diversity, think critically, and craft a future that transcends the boundaries of the past. Together, let’s embark on a journey where every story is heard, celebrated, and woven into the vibrant tapestry of our collective human history.
Meet the author
Fahad Siddiqui is a co-founder of Our Story Media Group, an educational resource company. He believes in the immense power of storytelling and its impact on education and empowerment for children worldwide. Learn more at: www.ourstory.media
Filed under: Guest Post

About Amanda MacGregor
Amanda MacGregor works in an elementary library, loves dogs, and can be found on BlueSky at @amandamacgregor.bsky.social.
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