In 1998, the inaugural World Kindness Day was established by the non-profit organisation known as the World Kindness Movement (WKM). The primary mission of WKM is to inspire and motivate individuals to exhibit increased kindness towards one another, with the overarching goal of fostering a more equitable and improved global community.

The World Kindness Movement operates without any religious, commercial, or political motivations. Instead, its sole purpose is to contribute to the creation of a better, more compassionate world for everyone.

The origins of the WKM trace back to 1997, originating from a conference held in Japan where attendees shared a collective understanding of the pivotal role kindness plays in society. Presently, the organisation boasts 27 representatives spanning the globe, including countries such as Brazil, China, the UK, Romania, and Zimbabwe.

This diversity underscores the truly international nature of World Kindness Day, which is acknowledged and celebrated worldwide, transcending cultural, religious, and national boundaries. The event serves as a testament to the universal appeal and importance of kindness in creating a more harmonious global society.

Here are some ideas on how you can celebrate:

• Random Acts of Kindness: Perform random acts of kindness throughout the day. It could be as simple as holding the door open for someone, complimenting a stranger, or helping someone in need. Thank your baristas or any cashiers who serve you, ask them how they are – this is always appreciated and goes a very long way!
• Volunteer: Spend some time volunteering for a local charity or community organisation. Offer your time and skills to make a positive contribution to your community. Don’t forgot King's and KCLSU have lots of volunteering opportunities available. From one-off events to regular volunteering opportunities, there's something for everyone.
• Donate: Clean out your closet or home and donate items you no longer need to a local charity. You can also donate money to a cause you care about.
• Spread Positivity on social media: Use your social media platforms to share positive messages, stories of kindness, or inspiring quotes. Encourage your followers to join in and share their own stories.
• Kindness Challenge: Challenge yourself and others to perform a certain number of acts of kindness throughout the day. Keep track and share your experiences with others.
• Express Gratitude: Take time to express gratitude to people in your life. Write thank-you notes, make a phone call, or simply tell someone how much you appreciate them.
• Kindness at Work: Create a positive and supportive environment at your workplace. Recognise and appreciate your colleagues and promote a culture of kindness and teamwork.
• Educate Others: Use the day as an opportunity to educate others about the importance of kindness and its impact on mental health and well-being.

Remember, kindness doesn't have to be grand gestures; even small acts can make a significant difference. The key is to spread positivity and create a ripple effect of kindness in your community and beyond.