What does it truly mean to see someone?

In this heartfelt episode of The Teaching Journeys Podcast, host Dave Roberts sits down with award-winning author, humanitarian, and founder of the Desire to Inspire Foundation, Dawn Airhart Witte, for a deeply moving conversation about purpose, belonging, and the transformative power of human connection.

Dawn shares how a childhood experience of not feeling seen sparked a lifelong mission — from volunteering in the LA foster care system to bringing clean water, resources, and hope to communities across Africa. Rooted in the African philosophy of ubuntu ("I am because we are") and the Zulu greeting sawubona ("I see you, you are valued"), Dawn's work is a reminder that even the smallest act of kindness can change a life.

In this episode, you'll discover ,among other things:

• How serendipity and "soul families" shape our life's path

• The story behind the Desire to Inspire Foundation and its global humanitarian work

• What drew Dawn to Africa — and the dream that finally answered her question why

• How to reconnect with your purpose after major life transitions

• The Ubuntu Creator Circle and Dawn's upcoming projects

Bio:

Dawn Airhart Witte is an award-winning author, speaker, humanitarian, and the founder of the Desire to Inspire Foundation, a global nonprofit dedicated to uplifting communities through both humanitarian support and heart-centered connection. Through her work in Africa and beyond, Dawn has helped bring clean water, resources, and hope to those in need, while also addressing the deeper human need for love, unity, and belonging.

She is the creator of The Secrets of Being, a platform devoted to helping individuals reconnect with their true selves and live with purpose, authenticity, and compassion. Dawn is the host of The Secrets of Being podcast, where she brings together thought leaders, healers, and visionaries to share wisdom that uplifts and inspires.

Her work is rooted in the belief that we are all interconnected, often expressed through the African philosophy of Ubuntu—“I am because we are”—and the Zulu greeting sawubona—“I see you, you are valued.” Dawn’s mission is to help every soul feel seen, loved, and inspired to be the change they wish to see in the world.

Links:

https://desiretoinspirefoundation.org/

https://thesecretsofbeing.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dawn.witte1/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawn-airhart-witte-19910920/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesecretsofbeingpodcast/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thesecretsofbeing

Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B071WR5BY4?ccs_id=62d45259-927a-4a86-9bbb-2db1e245c827

Podcast : https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-secrets-of-being-podcast/id1716399716

To connect with Dave: davidrobertsmsw.com