Yoga Gives Back’s latest Ambassador Circle was a powerful reminder of what makes this community so unique: people around the world turning their yoga practice into direct action for women and children in India.
As we prepare for Global Gathering for India, our biggest campaign of the year, ambassadors came together to share why they support YGB, how they are called to give back to the source of yoga, and what kinds of events can help us reach this year’s goal:
100 fundraising events worldwide. $120,000 raised for women and children in India.
How Global Gathering Began
Kayoko shared the story of how Global Gathering for India began during COVID, when all in-person fundraising suddenly stopped. In that moment of uncertainty, Daphne Tse reached out to her global network, helping gather 80 artists and yoga teachers from 20 countries in just three weeks.
Together, they created a 12-hour online gathering that raised $100,000 in three days.That moment showed what this community can do when we say yes.Global Gathering is more than a campaign. It is a global movement of gratitude in action — a way for yoga teachers, studios, ambassadors, students, and supporters to give back to Mother India, the source of yoga.
Why Ambassadors Say Yes
Throughout the call, ambassadors shared deeply personal reasons for supporting YGB.
Some spoke about meeting YGB beneficiaries in India and being transformed by the experience. Others shared how the mission of giving back to India resonates with their own yoga practice and teaching. Again and again, the message was clear: people support YGB because they feel connected to the mission.
One ambassador shared that meeting YGB recipients was “one of the most transformative experiences” of her life. Another said, “If everybody could see them and meet them, everybody would be involved.” Another reflected that yoga has given her so much, and supporting YGB is a way to give back to where yoga came from.
This is the heart of Global Gathering: not just raising funds, but inviting people into a living circle of gratitude.
Event Tips from Ambassadors
Ambassadors also shared practical ideas for hosting successful Global Gathering events. The best events do not have to be complicated. They need to be meaningful, clear, and connected to the YGB mission.
Lead with Story
People give when they feel something. Share why YGB matters to you personally. Tell your community why giving back to India matters as part of yoga practice.
Keep the Format Simple
A Global Gathering event can be:
• A yoga class
• A sound bath
• A kirtan
• A workshop
• A women’s circle
• A film screening
• A studio open house
• A mini-gala
• A donation-based community gathering
Add a Short YGB Moment
Include a short talk, video, or personal reflection so people understand where the money goes and why it matters. YGB can provide videos, stories, impact statistics, and media materials.
Use a Silent Auction
Several ambassadors emphasized that silent auctions can raise much more than raffles. Raffles create energy, but silent auctions often bring in stronger donations.
Good auction items include:
• Private yoga sessions
• Private sound baths
• Massage or bodywork sessions
• Facial or spa treatments
• Restaurant gift cards
• Studio class packages
• Retreat stays
• Airbnb or vacation home weekends
• Local wellness services
• Yoga mats or props
• Clothing or jewelry
• YGB artisan items from India
The best items are local, relevant, and desirable to the people attending your event.
Build Local Partnerships
Ask studios, teachers, wellness practitioners, restaurants, small businesses, and local sponsors to contribute. A small group of committed people can create a powerful event.
Use Eventbrite or Local Event Listings
One ambassador shared that Eventbrite can help reach people outside your immediate network. It can be a simple way to make your event more visible locally.
Make the Impact Clear
Just $250 supports one girl’s education for one year. When people understand the direct impact, giving becomes personal.
Get Involved
This year, we are inviting ambassadors, studios, teachers, students, sponsors, and friends of YGB to help us reach 100 events worldwide and raise $120,000.
Host your Global Gathering fundraiser
Visit the Global Gathering page
Use the Global Gathering Media Kit
Watch the Ambassador Circle replay
Join the Next Ambassador Circle
Our next Ambassador Circle is open to current ambassadors and anyone interested in getting involved.
Learn how to host your own Global Gathering event, connect with the YGB community, and hear more about Yoga Without Borders.
May 13th at 5PM PST on ZOOM HERE
