How it All Began

In 2024, from an apartment after her home was flooded by Hurricane Helene, Global Sprouts was born.

Founder Whitney Dueñas Richardson—a CHamoru and Dutch mom with a deep love for cultural connection—set out to create something meaningful for her family. After traveling to more than 30 countries and falling in love with the small towns and everyday traditions that make each place unique, she realized something important: what connects us isn’t just where we go, but how people live and share their stories.

When Whitney searched for ways to teach her daughter and sister about their own cultural roots, she found very few resources that felt engaging, accessible, or true to real-life experiences. So she created her own.

Global Sprouts began with Culture Kits designed to bring the world into the home through hands-on learning. The transition to a monthly screen-free magazine allows us to continue this mission in a simple format that excites children to receive mail!

Today, that mission continues through Passport to Play—a travel-inspired, screen-free activity magazine that helps children explore new cultures, build curiosity, and grow into kind humans.

From our hands-on Culture Kits to now our travel-inspired Passport to Play magazine, every product is designed to spark connection, imagination, and a deeper understanding of the world around them.

With 15 countries featured and counting, we’re just getting started on our journey to bring the world to your child—one adventure at a time.

Two Paths, One Goal: Screen-free time!

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Our Leadership Team

  • Whitney Duenas

    Founder

    Connect with her on LinkedIn.

  • Kaitlyn Ivancic

    Marketing Advisor

    Follow Kaitlyn on LinkedIn.

  • Veronica Drew

    Curriculum Advisor

    Follow Veronica on LinkedIn.

  • Financial Advisor

Social Responsibility

  • Every Child Deserves to Explore the World

    At Global Sprouts, we believe every child deserves the chance to experience the beauty of different cultures—no matter where they live or what they’re going through.

    That’s why a portion of every purchase helps us provide culture boxes and learning materials to underserved children, especially those who may not have the opportunity to travel or are facing difficult circumstances.

    Thanks to our growing community, we’ve already donated $1,500+ back into the community and we’re just getting started.

  • Together We Thrive

    We partner with real families, cultural ambassadors, and educators from around the world to ensure every activity, story, and experience is respectful, accurate, and meaningful.

    We’re committed to celebrating cultures with care and authenticity, highlighting underrepresented countries and communities, and teaching children to approach the world with curiosity and respect.

    Learn more about our cultural ambassador intiative here.