ABOUT THE MILLENNIUM FELLOWSHIP - CLASS OF 2024
United Nations Academic Impact and MCN are proud to partner on the Millennium Fellowship. This year, 52,000+ young leaders applied to join the Class of 2024 on 6,000+ campuses across 170 nations. 280+ campuses worldwide (just 5%) were selected to host the 4,000+ Millennium Fellows.
UNITED NATIONS ACADEMIC IMPACT AND MCN PROUDLY PRESENT FIDHA FARSHANA, A MILLENNIUM FELLOW FOR THE CLASS OF 2024.
Christ (Deemed To Be University) Delhi NCR Campus | Ghaziabad, India | Advancing SDG 10, SDG 5, SDG 10, SDG 16 & UNAI 6
" Being from a small district called Wayanad in Kerala, my biggest dreams have always included the International Court of justice and the United Nations. I believe that my journey—from my school days to securing a seat at one of the most prestigious colleges in the capital city—has brought me closer to the life I once dreamed of. United Nations and such opportunities were once just words I spoke in speeches, but throughout my life, I have been deeply committed to helping and reaching out to others, always striving to be kind to every being.
I served in the National Cadet Corps and earned the rank of Lance Corporal, and later participated in the National Service Scheme, completing 1,200 hours of service. Now, having the chance to serve the world professionally is a wonderful opportunity. I can speak up for those who cannot advocate for themselves. I am pursuing a career I have dreamed of since fourth grade. If I have remained dedicated to my dreams for this long, I believe I still have much more to accomplish and many miles to go before I rest, as Robert Frost said. Moreover, I am passionate about what I do; even without monetary rewards, I would still love to continue this work with all my heart.i am loving what I am doing "
Millennium Fellowship Project: Chhayy And Women Self Help Groups Kerala Kudumbasree Model
Empowering Communities: Chay (C-H-H-A-Y) Platform and Self-Help Group Development KERALA KUDUMBASREE MODEL
Project Description:
This project is a dual-initiative effort aimed at addressing significant societal challenges aligned with Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions).
Chay (C-H-H-A-Y-) Platform:
Chay, meaning 'shade' or 'tea' in the creator's native language, is a digital storytelling platform designed to provide a safe and inclusive space for individuals to share their personal experiences of overcoming societal inequalities. The platform enables users to engage in non-judgmental, supportive conversations while fostering healing, empowerment, and community connection. It combats issues such as pretty privilege, nepotism, and discrimination based on caste, color, religion, or region. Since its launch, Chay has garnered significant engagement, with users actively sharing their stories and finding solidarity within the community. Future plans include expanding its reach, hosting workshops, and collaborating with mental health professionals to offer more resources.
Self-Help Groups (SHGs) Development: KERALA KUDUMBASREE MODEL This initiative focuses on enhancing the efficiency and impact of Self-Help Groups across India, inspired by the success of the Kudumbashree model in Kerala. The study identifies systemic inefficiencies in SHGs operating in states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Delhi, caused by lack of awareness, insufficient government support, and cultural barriers. The project proposes a scalable three-tier SHG structure (modeled after Kudumbashree), integrating financial inclusion, capacity building, safety measures, and government welfare schemes. This initiative aims to empower women economically, socially, and politically, creating sustainable livelihoods and fostering gender equity.
Together, these projects aim to bridge societal gaps, empower marginalized groups, and create a sustainable model for inclusive growth. By combining grassroots initiatives and technology-driven solutions, this project works toward a more equitable and just society
About the Millennium Fellow
Fidha Farshana is a highly passionate law student from Kerala, the southernmost state in India. Having completed her schooling in Kerala, she moved to Delhi, the capital city, for her higher education. She is currently pursuing a BBA LLB (Hons) degree at CHRIST (Deemed to be University) in Delhi NCR.
From a young age, Fidha has demonstrated a strong sense of responsibility and commitment to combating discrimination. Her courage and actions have always matched her words, leading her to aspire to become a lawyer who upholds ethical and moral values. She believes that the greatest skill is to be kind and empathetic towards all beings and to advocate for those who cannot speak for themselves.
Fidha has always had well-considered political opinions, analyzing each issue logically and attentively. She is now thrilled to have the opportunity to serve the world through the Millennium Fellowships, focusing on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for justice, equality, and equity to all sectors of people in the society
