Faithfully Explore! brings you Ubuntu: I am Because We Are. Join Laura and young listeners on an inspiring journey into the African philosophy of Ubuntu, which teaches that “a person is a person through other people.” Through storytelling, imagination, games, and reflection, children and families discover the values of kindness, community, and shared humanity that connect us all.
Length
🕛 26 mins
Host
🎙️ Laura Menousek
Release Date
September 17, 2025
What’s Inside This Episode
In I Am Because We Are: Exploring Ubuntu, children ages 5–12 and their families will:
Families will come away with a deeper understanding of Ubuntu and a weekly challenge to practice it—by noticing ways we depend on one another and offering acts of kindness that strengthen the whole community.
For Parents and Educators
I Am Because We Are: Exploring Ubuntu introduces children to the African philosophy of Ubuntu, which teaches that our humanity is rooted in our relationships with others. Through playful storytelling, imagination, and movement, kids explore what it means to live with kindness, community, and mutual respect.
Suggested Uses:
- Classroom Listening & Discussion: Use this episode as a launchpad for lessons on African culture, values of empathy, or global philosophies of community. Pause during the “Friendship Bridge” segment for small group reflections on how Ubuntu connects to other traditions of kindness.
- Family Listening: Gather during a car ride or mealtime to enjoy the story together. Afterwards, encourage each family member to share one way they felt supported by others that day.
- Social-Emotional Learning: Pair the weekly challenge with classroom kindness charts or individual journals. Invite students to track acts of Ubuntu—moments where they helped or were helped by others.
By centering Ubuntu’s message, children learn that their choices ripple outward, and that by lifting one another up, we all thrive.
Printable Activities
One Week of We: Ubuntu Challenge
Join the One Week of We: Ubuntu Challenge! A free Faithfully Explore! printable that helps kids and families practice kindness, sharing, and empathy for 7 days. Discover the joy of Ubuntu “I am because we are”.
Books to Explore Together
Note: This section contains affiliate links. If you click and buy, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting Faithfully Explore!
I Am You: A Book about Ubuntu
by Refiloe Moahloli (Author), Zinelda McDonald (Illustrator)
This heartfelt picture book introduces children to the African philosophy of Ubuntu “I am because you are.” Through lyrical storytelling and warm, expressive illustrations, young readers learn how kindness, empathy, and community weave people together. Families and classrooms alike will find inspiration in this gentle reminder that our lives are brighter and stronger when we see ourselves in one another.
Hu-Ubuntu: I Am Because We Are
by Patrick Makokoro (Author), Danika Runyan (Illustrator)
This moving story brings the wisdom of Ubuntu to life for young readers. With gentle words and vibrant illustrations, it shows how every act of kindness, sharing, and connection ripples through families and communities. Children will discover that “I am because we are” is more than a saying… it’s a way of living that celebrates our shared humanity and the joy of belonging.
Everyday Ubuntu: Living Better Together, the African Way
by Mungi Ngomane (Author), Nontombi Naomi Tutu (Narrator)
This inspiring audiobook introduces listeners to Ubuntu, the Southern African philosophy that reminds us our humanity is bound together. With wisdom drawn from Archbishop Desmond Tutu’s legacy, Mungi Ngomane shares 14 simple lessons for living with compassion, forgiveness, and unity. Narrated by Nontombi Naomi Tutu, the stories and reflections invite families and individuals alike to discover practical ways to create more kindness, connection, and joy in daily life.
The Lessons of Ubuntu: How an African Philosophy Can Inspire Racial Healing in America
by Mark Mathabane (Author)
Blending personal stories with timeless wisdom, Mark Mathabane explores the African philosophy of Ubuntu “I am because we are” as a path toward healing and unity in America. With honesty and hope, he shows how Ubuntu’s call to recognize each other’s shared humanity can break down barriers of race and division. This powerful book invites readers of all ages to imagine communities built on empathy, respect, and belonging.
Listener Shoutout
Want to be featured on a future episode? Ask a grown-up to help you send a recording to faithfullyexplore@gmail.com or tag us on Instagram or Facebook
Latest Episodes
Join the Faithfully Explore! Family
Get new episodes delivered right to your inbox:
Share your child’s Belief Backpack art or favorite lesson on Instagram and tag Faithfully Explore!
Help me create more engaging content:
Let us know what you think.