achieved less, and left education.
While we’re actively exploring how digital
technology can enhance learning experiences, I don’t think we’ll take our education programming to a completely digital space. We know that nothing can replace the feeling of a teacher’s praise as they look over your shoulder. The joy of playing and solving problems side-by-side with classmates. These are the humanistic pillars of education that foster important life skills, relationships, and experiences that we carry with us through our lives.
What does the future hold for Right To Play? What makes you feel hopeful?
There’s lots to be hopeful about. For over 20 years, Right To Play has been making a difference in children’s lives and strengthening education systems to support future generations. I’m very motivated to continue to make sure the world’s most vulnerable children are safe, mentally strong, and learning their best – both online and offline. And I’m excited to work with our partners and supporters to explore new ways that we can innovate our programs and improve children’s learning, development, and well-being through play.
Empowering the next generation to build a tomorrow that’s stronger than today depends on children having access to quality education. We need lots of committed supporters who believe in children and in their future and will join us to help them rise. I have great confidence in our ability to make a real impact, together.
The Founder
JOHANN OLAV KOSS, C.M.
It all began with a boy in a long sleeve t-shirt.
In 1994, Norwegian speed skater Johann Olav Koss led a humanitarian trip to Eritrea. There, he came face-to-face with the realities of life in a country emerging from decades of war – and with the power of play. Amid burned-out tanks, children played together, kicking a shirtball back and forth. The children’s incredible resilience in the face of hopelessness inspired Koss to found Right To Play.
Prior to founding Right To Play, Johann was a four-time Olympic gold medalist in speed skating. He is recipient of numerous awards, including the 2013 LEGO Prize from the LEGO Foundation and the 2013 Henry R. Kravis Prize in Leadership. Johann has an undergraduate Medical Degree from the University of Queensland, an EMBA from the Joseph L. Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto and honorary degrees from Brock University, the University of Calgary, the Vrije Universiteit Brussels and the University of Aust Agder in Norway.
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