The Empathy Project — Conversations That Bridge Worlds
What is this?
The Empathy Project connects you with employees from companies around the world for meaningful, one-on-one virtual conversations. You'll talk about life, culture, perspective — the things that make us different and the things that connect us. Your conversations help people in the corporate world develop real empathy and cross-cultural understanding. It's not a lecture. It's not a training. It's two people, talking honestly.
This project is run by the RW Institute in partnership with Acquaint, a nonprofit that has facilitated over 15,000 hours of 1:1 conversations connecting volunteers across cultures since 2021.
What will you do?
You'll participate in four one-hour virtual conversations over several weeks with an employee you'd never otherwise meet. Each conversation is guided by prompts and icebreakers designed to foster genuine connection — not small talk. You'll share your experiences, listen to theirs, and both walk away seeing the world a little differently.
No travel. No special equipment. Just you, an internet connection, and a willingness to show up.
What's in it for you?
Talk to people from around the world — from your home
Develop communication and cross-cultural skills that stand out on any CV
Earn certificates and recognition for your contribution
Be part of something with real scale: the project aims to generate one million hours of empathy work by the end of 2026
Gain practical experience in intercultural dialogue and active listening
Who can volunteer?
Basic English communication skills
Reliable internet access and a computer or smartphone
18 years or older
Available for four one-hour conversations over a few weeks
Open to honest, respectful dialogue across difference
Why it matters
Employees in large companies are often disconnected from the wider world. They work in silos, attend meetings, and rarely have a genuine conversation with someone from a completely different background. You change that. Your time and your story help someone practice empathy — not as a concept, but as a lived experience. And the data from across all these conversations feeds serious academic research into how empathy actually spreads through organizations and communities.
This is real time with real people. And it starts with you.