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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.

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UNITED NATIONS ACADEMIC IMPACT AND MCN PROUDLY PRESENT SAQLAIN HAIDER, A MILLENNIUM FELLOW FOR THE CLASS OF 2024.

National University of Sciences & Technology | Islamabad, Pakistan | Advancing SDG 4, SDG 5, SDG 16, SDG 8, SDG 10 & UNAI 2, UNAI 3

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" I am excited to be a Millennium Fellow because it offers me a platform to translate my experiences and passions into tangible actions. Growing up in a region plagued by conflict, I witnessed how many youngsters were more focused on the war than on education. However, my experience studying at a university in another city opened my eyes to the transformative power of education. I saw young individuals collaborating, sharing ideas, and working together to alleviate the pain in their communities. This reinforced my belief in 'Peace through Education.' I believe that the Millennium Fellowship offers a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, amplify my impact, and contribute to the global dialogue on social justice, economic equality, and peace. I am working on honing my communications, leadership and conflict resolution skills which are crucial for effective peacebuilding and community empowerment. With the right resources and efforts, the Fellowship will equip me to not only contribute to impactful initiatives but also to inspire and lead others in creating sustainable change. Together, we can transform our shared vision for a just and peaceful world into reality. "

Millennium Fellowship Project: Roshni

Project Roshni is a dynamic community-based initiative aimed at empowering marginalized groups, focusing on youth, children, and women. The project aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by promoting Quality Education (SDG 4), Gender Equality (SDG 5), Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8), and Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10). The initiative operates through targeted interventions, such as: 1. Career Seminars for Marginalized Women: Providing knowledge and resources to enhance employability and financial independence. 2. Youth Empowerment Seminars: Engaging young individuals in skill-building workshops, leadership programs, and motivational sessions. 3. Child Empowerment Activities: Visiting schools and orphanages to foster creativity, confidence, and curiosity in children through interactive sessions and educational activities. The project actively collaborates with NGOs and seeks support from organizations like the Nustainable Office to secure funding and resources. It also includes donation campaigns to ensure sustainability and broader outreach. By addressing societal inequalities and creating opportunities for growth, Project Roshni strives to build a brighter and more inclusive future for marginalized communities.

About the Millennium Fellow

Born and raised in a war-torn region, Parachinar, Pakistan, Saqlain Haider grew up witnessing the harsh realities of war and violence, experiences that profoundly shaped their worldview and aspirations. Initially drawn to the allure of innovation and the opportunities presented by big tech companies, Saqlain envisioned a career in cutting- edge technologies. However, as they matured and observed the struggles within their community—particularly in Parachinar, where access to quality education and opportunities is limited—their priorities shifted. He realized that their true calling was not merely to build a successful career, but to contribute to something larger, something that could positively impact the lives of others. He was also a bright student academically. He secured the only seat allocated for FATA students in the engineering program at Islamia College Peshawar. Despite the odds, he continued his academic journey. He got admission to the National University of Science and Technology (NUST), one of Pakistan's premier institutions, a significant achievement in a region where few students manage to compete with peers from more privileged backgrounds.
Saqlain’s academic journey at the National University of Science and Technology (NUST) was marked by significant challenges. Financial difficulties make it hard for him to fully focus on their studies and extracurricular pursuits. However, things began to improve when he received a scholarship, alleviating much of the financial burden and enabling them to better engage in their academic and leadership development.
Now, Saqlain is actively involved in various initiatives, continuing to build on their leadership experiences while enhancing their skills in data analysis. They became a member of the Pakistan Youth Parliament and the Youth General Assembly, platforms where they advocate for issues close to their heart, such as education, peacebuilding, and social justice. They have also had the honor of being selected as a fellow in the Aspire Leaders Program and the Millennium Fellowship.
Today, Saqlain aspires to work with organizations dedicated to addressing global challenges, such as the United Nations or leading NGOs. They aim to use their background in economics and their data analysis skills to contribute to initiatives that promote social justice, economic equality, and lasting peace. After much self- reflection, Saqlain has come to realize that their true passions lie in data analytics,
peacebuilding, education, and economic development. Recognizing that he still has much to learn, Saqlain is seeking mentorship to help navigate this path. They are particularly interested in how to maximize their impact and support as they work towards their goals.

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