About Narrative 4
The Creation of Narrative 4
Narrative 4 was founded on a simple but powerful belief that stories have the power to change the world.
Our Story
When and how was Narrative 4 created? Of all the questions we’re asked about our organization, this is the one that is (surprisingly) the toughest to answer.
Narrative 4 was, of course, born from stories. And a realization that barriers are being built and stereotypes strengthened at an alarming rate around the world these days. It was created alongside Jackie Bezos in Colorado classrooms and made its debut on the international stages of Port-au-Prince, Haifa, New Orleans, Nazareth, New York and beyond. It was formed by pioneering students and visionary teachers and administrators in small corners around the world who have been testing our programs in classrooms for years.
It began to crystalize in 2012 when an unprecedented group of world-renowned authors and activists gathered for five days high in the Rocky Mountains to explore what it would take to transform the world with stories. But ideas are one thing. Implementation is another. That’s where you come in. Narrative 4 was created by you, for you, with you, alongside you. It’s in each and every one of us and we are so proud of our work and thankful for your support, energy and implementation of ideas.
Our Founders
Co-founded by National Book Award-winning author Colum McCann and Lisa Consiglio, Narrative 4 began with a question: what is the highest aim of storytelling—and how can we harness it for meaningful change?
From that question grew a global movement rooted in compassion, connection, and shared humanity.
Artist-driven, Educator-shaped and Student-led
Narrative 4 originally went “big” and global in large part because of the passion and belief Jackie Bezos had in our nascent idea many moons ago. Because of Jackie’s early vision and support, we have become one of the world’s most impactful changemakers in empathy and education. Now, we are primed to harness our momentum and take advantage of numerous opportunities to spark collaborative change and inspire the healing of our divided world.
This platform, the Jackie Bezos Global Learning Lab, represents and honors Jackie’s many contributions to Narrative 4 and ensures countless students are supported to become civic leaders.
Every time a child shares a memory, listens deeply to the story of a stranger, learns from a downloadable module, connects with an artist, and bonds with another child – either right next door or across the globe – they will do so in “Jackie’s House.” Her vision to “Go Big” inspired the trajectory of the organization, and our goal with this digital home for global sharing and change is to bring that inspiration to children everywhere.
Stories, Action, Change
We are driven by our mission to build a global community of compassionate youth by bringing joy, sparking imagination and fostering meaningful connections among young people. It happens through the powerful combination of art, education and action. These three pivotal elements come together in the form of Narrative 4 programs, which serve as the catalysts for change. Everything we do is designed to help young minds flourish and equip them to embrace a more compassionate and interconnected global community. Tomorrow’s leaders and change-makers are using their own stories to break down barriers, shatter stereotypes and create the changes they want to see in the world.
We hope this website gives you a good taste of what has occurred since we launched Narrative 4 in 2013. Here, we celebrate what has unfolded, with your guidance and support, in classrooms and communities around the world. Together, we are weaving a global tapestry of change. All of this is driven, shaped and led by curious, courageous, compassionate and connected students, educators, artists and citizens all over the world.
This movement was founded when stories began. How can we put a date on that?
Ways to Get Involved
Join a Story Exchange
Take part in virtual and in-person events that bring the Narrative 4 community together. Learn, listen, and connect with others through a shared story.
Engage with an N4 Artist
Narrative 4 was founded by artists. Today, artists continue to work with youth through the Narrative 4 Artists Network.
Bring N4
to You
Bring Story Exchange workshops to your school or organization. Find resources to help you get started and gain support with decision makers.
Become a Facilitator
Learn how to guide Story Exchanges with care. Facilitator Training prepares you to lead meaningful experiences in your community.
Support Narrative 4
Help sustain Narrative 4’s work and expand access to guided storytelling experiences around the world. Your support makes this work possible.
Get in Touch
Questions about our work or how to get involved? Get in touch with the Narrative 4 team.
