In 2018, a group of folks got together in Leeds, England, and asked a simple question: how can we foster more kindness in the community?

After a series of small events and conversations, a grassroots initiative was born. 

Now, two years later, the city is about to launch the first-ever Festival of Kindness.

The week-long celebration starts on September 6th and will be available internationally via Zoom. 

“We are putting a flag in the ground for people who want to see the values of kindness, compassion, and wellbeing as the prosperity we should be investing in,” says co-founder Joshua Malkin.

Several days of the festival will emphasize mental health. National Health Service (NHS) professionals will host several events and conversations surrounding a whole variety of topics.

Being kind and helping others is scientifically proven to make you feel better both mentally and physically.  

“We want the kindness revolution in Leeds to spread to all cities in the UK and beyond,” said Malkin. 

“We would encourage anyone who is involved in areas that relate to kindness, compassion, and wellness to [join] and make this a national festival of kindness.”

Click here for a full schedule of events, activities, and instructions on how to join in live. 

Blue Door will be tuning in throughout the week and sharing events on our social media platforms. See you there!