Change Makers of the World congratulates Timothy James Stiven, advisor to Change Makers of the World, on being named one of the Top 10 Finalists for the 2026 Global Teacher Prize, in recognition of his work supporting education for Afghan girls.
Change Makers of the World was proud to nominate and support Timothy for the Global Teacher Prize. His recognition brings greater international attention to the determination of Afghan girls who continue pursuing their education despite being denied access to secondary schools and universities.
Timothy is a teacher from California and the founder of Flowers for the Future International, a partner organization of Change Makers of the World. Flowers for the Future International and Change Makers of the World are partner organizations, working together to expand educational opportunities for Afghan girls and young people.




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Following the restrictions imposed on girls’ education in Afghanistan, Timothy and Flowers for the Future International developed an online education initiative to help Afghan girls continue their studies from inside the country.
Through the program, around 500 Afghan girls in Kabul are studying online. Students receive laptops and internet access and attend live online classes taught by teachers based outside Afghanistan, allowing them to complete a full high school curriculum.
More than 40 Afghan girls have graduated and received accredited California high school diplomas and official academic transcripts through the program. Before travel restrictions were imposed, six graduates were able to travel to the United States, where they are continuing their education in pre-medical programs at American universities.
Timothy’s selection as a Global Teacher Prize Top 10 Finalist recognizes this work and highlights what can be achieved through international cooperation to keep education accessible to Afghan girls.
As an advisor to Change Makers of the World, Timothy continues to work closely with our team. The partnership between Change Makers of the World and Flowers for the Future International also creates opportunities to develop new initiatives and reach more Afghan girls through education.
Change Makers of the World congratulates Timothy James Stiven on this recognition and looks forward to continuing our work together for Afghan girls’ education.

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