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Kehinde Adebiyi , fondly known as Kenny, is a proud alumnus of the inaugural Global Millennium Fellowship class of 2018. As Campus Director for the Lagos State University (LASU) cohort, he founded SDGsACT , the first SDGs campus club in Nigeria. Under his leadership, the club’s projects impacted over 2,000 people, and Kenny later expanded its reach to campuses nationwide, inspiring thousands of student leaders to advance the global goals. Kehinde Adebiyi speaking at a Global Health and Human Rights Conference After the Fellowship, Kenny’s contributions to youth development earned him a spot as a YouthLead Ambassador, supported by USAID. He led transformative campaigns for positive youth engagement while balancing his passion for science. Graduating as one of LASU’s top scholars with a historic GPA, Kenny’s achievements became a catalyst for the Fellowship’s growing popularity in Africa. He later joined the MCN team, serving as Program Coordinator for the Class of 2020 , where he co-led a cohort that implemented over 700 projects impacting 800,000+ lives across 20 nations during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Kenny has been recognized with multiple awards, including being named one of the 100 Beating Corona Heroes in Africa   and receiving the Rise Challenge Award. Now a PhD scholar at Indiana University, he continues to distinguish himself in public health and biotechnology research. As a Stier Fellow , he exemplifies global leadership in academia, science, and social impact. Kenny is also the author of Nature Pays Diligence , a motivational book that inspires students to achieve academic excellence and make meaningful contributions to their communities. Inspired by Kenny’s story? Apply to the Class of 2025 Millennium Fellowship  and begin your transformative journey today!

During my first semester as a freshman, I stumbled upon the application for the Millennium Fellowship Class of 2022. At the time, I had no idea what the Fellowship entailed, but I decided to apply anyway. Unfortunately, my application hit a roadblock: I couldn’t proceed because I hadn’t yet earned a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA). Disappointed, I let it go and moved on. Oladayo Jessica Olamide  Fast forward to 2024, I received another email about the Fellowship—this time directly to my personal inbox, as I’d subscribed to their updates. Now in my third year, with a CGPA in hand, I didn’t hesitate to reapply. I advanced past the first round and reached the second stage, which required a staff recommendation. While working on that, I noticed an opening for the Campus Director role. Confident in my leadership potential, I applied for that too. Months later, I was invited to a virtual interview for the Campus Director position. I’d nearly forgotten about it, but thankfully, my calendar reminder saved the day. The interview itself was chaotic: I felt unprepared, looked (in my own words) “homeless,” and winged my answers. I left it all in God’s hands. In August, while anxiously awaiting results, I checked my email after an exam and saw the news: I’d been admitted to the Millennium Fellowship! Overjoyed, I immediately shared the update—but there was no mention of the Campus Director role. I assumed my messy interview had cost me the position, even joking about it with friends. The Fellowship stretched my capabilities in ways I’d never imagined, becoming a transformative learning ground. Then, the next day, a bigger surprise arrived: an email confirming my role as Campus Co-Director for the Millennium Fellowship at Ladoke Akintola University of Technology . Cue me frantically deleting my initial celebratory post and replacing it with the real announcement. Gratitude doesn’t even begin to cover it. My Fellowship Experience Teaming up with my Campus Co-Director, we dove into planning mode. We mapped goals, gathered our cohort, and organized a launch session where we met the Fellows for the first time. The instant bond we formed reassured me this team would make the journey seamless. Our sessions were inspiring—filled with powerful stories and discussions. But challenges emerged: coordinating schedules, structuring projects, drafting proposals, facing rejections, and pushing until approvals finally came. Through it all, I grew. The Millennium Fellowship stretched my capabilities in ways I’d never imagined, becoming a transformative learning ground. The pinnacle? Successfully executing all our projects, graduating from the program, and being featured as a Millennium Spotlight on the Millennium Campus Network’s (MCN) Instagram page. That recognition was a heartfelt reminder of how far I’d come—and all I felt was gratitude. Advice to Future Fellows Just Apply : Don’t wait until you “fully understand” the Fellowship. Take the leap—you’ll learn as you go. Lead with Purpose : The Fellowship is about social impact. Bring a heart for service and a vision for change. Embrace Resilience : Rejections and challenges are part of the process. Keep pushing, learning, and adapting. Collaborate : The connections you make are invaluable. Engage deeply, share ideas, and build lasting relationships. Enjoy the Journey : Savor every moment—the sessions, teamwork, small wins, and even the hurdles. They all shape your story. The Millennium Fellowship changed my life. If you’re considering applying, do it. This journey might just be your stepping stone to something extraordinary Testimonial written by: Oladayo Jessica Olamide  Millennium Fellowship Class of 2024, Campus Director LAUTECH, Nigeria

From August to December 2024, Millennium Fellows across the globe drove transformative change in their communities through bold, locally rooted initiatives. Over the coming weeks, these Fellows will share their stories of impact, lessons learned, and the challenges they overcame during the Millennium Fellowship program. Fellows in Eldoret, Kenya share their work fostering S.T.E.M. Equity for Persons with Disabilities. "In 2024, Millennium Fellows at the University of Eldoret (UoE) in Kenya spearheaded a group project titled Differently Enabled , which focuses on mentoring learners with disabilities to pursue S.T.E.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) courses and careers. By raising community awareness, the project aims to dismantle stigma and stereotypes surrounding persons with disabilities (PWDs). In many African countries and beyond, societal norms often restrict PWDs to predefined career paths, limiting their potential. The misconception that PWDs cannot excel in S.T.E.M. fields perpetuates inequality, marginalization, and mental health challenges. Aligned with SDGs 4 (Quality Education), 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and 10 (Reduced Inequalities), the University of Eldoret cohort designed this project with the following objectives: Bridging the gap between disabled and abled individuals. Empowering PWDs to explore sustainable livelihood opportunities. Organizing workshops to sensitize communities and foster safer environments for PWDs. Creating inclusive spaces where PWDs feel valued in societal growth and development. To implement this initiative, the cohort visited the Eldoret School for the Hearing-Impaired, a public special education institution in Eldoret East, Kenya. Managed by local government authorities, the school offers the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) under the Ministry of Education. This project holds significant potential to promote inclusive education and sustainable livelihoods for People living with Disabilities. During their visit, the fellows met Tr. Joel, an enthusiastic math teacher and mentor who is deaf himself. A 2022 mathematics graduate from Kenyatta University in Nairobi, Tr. Joel exemplified the potential of PWDs in S.T.E.M. fields. Eldoret University Millennium Fellows with Tr. Joel The project’s second phase took place in October 2024, with the cohort mentoring Junior Secondary students through interactive sessions and co-curricular activities. The mentorship emphasized S.T.E.M. disciplines, with each fellow highlighting their motivations, the importance of S.T.E.M., career inspirations, and how students can defy limitations by pursuing these fields. During the sessions, the cohort learned sign language, gained insights into the students’ aspirations, and identified challenges faced by the deaf community. This knowledge will inform future follow-up programs to maximize impact. Key takeaways included: Teamwork and shared values : Collaboration between fellows, the university, and the school. Learning before serving : Engaging directly with PWDs to understand their needs rather than making assumptions. Contextualizing morality : Balancing societal norms with ethical action. Empowering youth : Providing tools and resources for PWDs to chart their own paths. Shared responsibilities : Leveraging individual strengths and leadership styles within the team. This project holds significant potential to promote inclusive education and sustainable livelihoods for PWDs. The University of Eldoret Millennium Fellowship cohort remains committed to expanding its impact through ongoing partnerships and mentorship beyond the Fellowship period."

Aya - it’s such an honor to meet you. Please tell us a bit about yourself “ My name is Aya Yousef, a 4th year architecture student at the American University of Beirut . I am passionate about Social Change and Social Activism. This year, I was named a Top 50 finalist for the 2021 Global student prize . I am Palestinian, but I grew up at the Burj el Barajne camp in Lebanon. I’m currently embarking on a Self - finding, Self-independence journey - trying to make sense of the world around me, take risks, and take care of myself - whether that’s emotionally, mentally or financially. ” Thank you for sharing that with us. Could you tell us a little bit about your time and experience as a Millennium Fellow? “ I was a Class of 2019 Millennium Fellow at AUB. I’ve always credited this experience as one of my first genuine opportunities to connect and network with International peers who were passionate about the same things I was. At the time, our university was the only campus selected in Lebanon - so there was that added pride. My whole cohort was very motivated, all of them eager to give back as much as they could within the short time that they’d been given. In hindsight, I would say the most important part of the Fellowship was this opportunity to connect, network and interact with thousands of other young people across the world . Sometimes networking is not even connecting 1:1 - it’s in hearing their perspectives in a breakout room, reading about their project ideas, and being motivated by that shared, familiar, hunger for change. You start to think more expansively about local challenges, and in a sense you learn a bit about yourself from this shared space. After graduation I started to build upon these personal skills and, I think, made myself an even more holistic person. So there certainly was a shift during and after the Fellowship - whether that’s psychologically or purely in terms of self improvement and up-skilling." That’s wonderful to hear. Can you tell us a bit about the SDG you focused on and your Millennium Fellowship Project? “Certainly, I led a project called “ Pales-Tech ” with another Millennium Fellow - Hany anan - who was also Palestinian. We both understood the pains and the hardships our people were going through, and how unfairly lack of resources and little exposure to opportunities was condemning young Palesitininians to lives of averageness. We both had found a way to escape this cycle but many others couldn't. We had to give back to our community. And so by focusing on the underprivileged youth and children in the camps, we provided technical training in the use of tech tools, such as wordpress. The point for us was to make young Palestinians realize that we can use technology to solve many problems in our lives and our societies. We hosted a series of workshops in different palesitnian camps in lebanon, and the final presentations were done at the American University of Beirut.” How did your experiences growing up shape you to want a life in Social Impact? It’s sad that society demands exceptionalism from us so we can live decent, average lives. “I was born in Burj-El-Barajneh, a refugee camp for Palestinians in Lebanon. Throughout my whole journey growing up, constantly shifting from one school to the other, I got to experience first hand what it was like to truly lack. Truly undignifying. In high school it dawned on me how fundamentally unequal this societal setup was. Though I excelled in my studies, for a long time I could not find any opportunities to further my education. This makes you wonder - what is wrong with us? And how can we work to bridge the gap? Though I’d eventually end up receiving 3 scholarships at some of the best universities in Lebanon - these observations stuck with me. In the end, I did get scholarships, but I’d also put in great personal effort. In a sense, I was the subject of a lucky break that many other kids around me simply couldn’t dream about getting. I t’s sad that society demands exceptionalism from us so we can live decent, average lives. Many children and young people don’t know that opportunities even exist, and even those that do are conditioned to believe opportunity belongs to others. Because I ended up experiencing this big, beautiful world, I always wanted to show the kids that a big beautiful world does exist, and it is within their reaches. I joined the outreach team for my school scholarship, and I also partnered with 2 other change makers to co-found “ ToRead ”, an online education program linking High School students with educational institutions and providing information about potential scholarships. I will never stop looking for better - for my people, and for all oppressed people around the world. That is humbling to hear. Are there any other projects you’ve been working on recently? ‘My family and friends have always known me as a multitasker. Since I graduated from the fellowship I've involved myself in many different projects. After the Beirut blast, we volunteered with social groups to help plan the recovery by surveying, analyzing and studying some buildings damaged by the explosion, and creating a series of architectural drawings that, hopefully, benefitted renovation efforts. One of the buildings we worked on has now been fully reconstructed. We also worked with a local NGO, D4C ( Design For Communities ) focusing on food insecurity by working on a rooftop gardening architectural design that would maximize planting and production, whether on rooftops, balconies, or even open spaces. I also worked on an augmented reality course with a young enterprise called Shabab Lab, where we prepared courses for high school students, teaching the basics of Augmented reality and how it can be used for social innovation. Incredible! Can you tell us a little bit about your nomination ins this year’s Global Student prize? “Totally incredible! I’m still speechless. When we do the work we do, it is mostly because we genuinely care about our communities - so we sacrifice time and energy to try make things better, without the expectation of an accolade, or even an affirmation. But sometimes that spotlight is important, if not for anything else, just as a reminder that what you’ve been doing matters, that it’s touching real lives and impacting real people. For me, the nomination was incredibly humbling. At that moment I felt that every minute we’d spent doing work for the benefit of others had been worth it. I think more importantly,I’m also happy that young people can look at us and think, it can be done. Lastly, any advice to young Leaders around the world? “I would say get involved! It’s easy and convenient to sit in silence and avoid responsibility. But we can’t afford to do that. Stand up and be counted. Interact with people. Let yourself become a true member of your community. And remember you can always play a part, no matter how small. Connect with Aya on LinkedIn and Instagram Share your Impact stories with us here: fellowship@mcnpartners.org

Haya Al-Kubati , an undergraduate medical student at the 21 September University of Medical and Applied Sciences in Sana’a-Yemen, is a passionate advocate for the SDGs. She is especially interested in good health and well-being, mental health awareness, and disease prevention. Haya gained an interest in volunteering and social activism as a young girl and has been involved in the work for 9 years. She has launched several social impact projects targeting young people in Yemen, including raising awareness on climate change to ongoing school children, and implementing Cancer awareness campaigns in her community. As Class of 2023 Millennium Fellows, Haya and her team conducted breast cancer self-examination exercises for more than 300 high school girls. She also volunteered with youth from 24+ countries as a member of the organizing committee of the International Volunteering Youth Forum . Haya is a Catalyst 2030 Yemen chapter member, a Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange program YES alumna, and a former youth member of the Yemeni Youth Volunteering Committee with the Yemeni Association of Reproductive Health where she has helped conduct more than 6 social action campaigns targeting youths, women and children. She is also a Yemen country ambassador with Awareness 360  (a global youth-led organization advancing sustainable development through youth empowerment ) and 2021 fellow of the year with Awareness 360. Haya is a Recipient of the title Arab Voice Ambassador 2022  by the Arab Youth Center in Abu Dhabi with her podcast Youth and Sustainability which introduces the SDGs to Yemeni youth and addresses youth challenges. Recently a 2023 Diana Award recipient. Following her Millennium Fellowship work, she was named a MENA regional focal point with the Sendai Stakeholder Children and Youth (DDR working group ). She spoke with Team MCN to share her Millennium Fellowship journey. Thank you for speaking with us Haya. Please introduce yourself and share what inspired you to begin social impact work? "Thank you for having me. My name is Haya. I started my Social Impact journey during my exchange year in the United States through the YES program when I was just 15 years old. I have since spent time volunteering on multiple grassroots initiatives, associations, and medical awareness teams. I have also launched my own social impact projects, including most recently as part of the Millennium Fellowship, and in the past through global youth-led organizations like Awareness 360. I have always felt as a young person growing up in Yemen, it is my responsibility to try my best to make my country a better place." "The lessons on setting core values for our projects and ensuring we centre these values in our work are things I will carry with me even as I graduate from the Fellowship."   Thank you for sharing. You were selected to the Millennium Fellowship in 2023 having shown incredible leadership potential. What has the experience meant for you? "It is difficult to explain. The Millennium Fellowship was an enriching journey for me. Last year I came across the Fellowship and immediately wanted to be part of it. I knew we needed to apply as a cohort to stand a chance, so I spent time going around the school, inviting and encouraging my schoolmates to apply. Eventually enough of us ended up submitting applications, and upon selection I was named Campus Director. Holding this role made me feel empowered, trusted, and inspired. I was able to coordinate training sessions, support Fellows on their projects, and generally create an environment where everyone felt like they were part of a small family . I value what this fellowship has offered me. I say to all students at my school looking to apply that the training will only be a semester-long, but the lessons learnt will last me a lifetime." Amazing. Please take a moment to Introduce your Millennium Fellowship project. What problem does your project try to solve? "Of course! My project " But first! Mental health " aims to shed light on the importance of mental health among medical students. We are focusing particularly on helping med students cope during the transition period from their academic training into clinical rotations. This is usually an exciting but tough time because it is very demanding and you get to see things that can be very traumatizing. Most healthcare practitioners are prone to mental health issues due to the demanding nature of this speciality. It is a noble profession, but it can sometimes carry much negative weight. I hope to help destigmatize seeking psychological support, and create spaces where we can normalize talking about the troubles we all collectively face. Our well-being has to come first before we can take care of others, hence my project name - 'But First! Mental health"  "I hope to help destigmatize seeking psychological support, and create spaces where we can normalize talking about the troubles we all collectively face." That's wonderful. All the best as you continue this mission. How did the Millennium Fellowship contribute to your achievements?  The Millennium Fellowship program has helped me learn about my leadership ability. Being in charge of an incredible cohort was a big honour and responsibility. It has also helped me understand the basics of social impact leadership . I appreciate that the curriculum focuses on teaching you how to build up your grassroots initiative, taking a social impact project from ideation to execution. The lessons on setting core values for our projects and ensuring we centre these values in our work are things I will carry with me even as I graduate from the Fellowship.   Connect with Haya on LinkedIn . Millennium Fellows and alumni, would you like to share your story with the community? Get in touch: ( alumni@mcnpartners.org )

Angela Zhong , an alumnus of the Millennium Fellowship, Class of 2021 attended the COP28 last fall. She is an undergraduate at Harvard studying economics and environmental science public policy. Angela is originally from Houston, Texas, and was inspired to get involved in climate work after facing several environmental health hazards and natural disasters. "This November marked my second anniversary in the international youth climate space! My first event was the Conference of Youth 16 ahead of COP26 in 2021. Being back at COP again in 2023 provides a pivotal setting to reflect on my engagement. In the past two years, I have been so fortunate to meet youth from around the world, advocate for the causes I believe in, and learn about various theories of change. I think that my experience, while accelerated by a gap year spent at many conference halls, is one that is universal to the youth who are participating in this year’s COP28. I could talk at length about the sheer learning that takes place by being in proximity of so many of the best minds on climate, or the immense struggle to demand institutional change during a crisis. I would highlight those as some of the key takeaways of being at the COP in general. But I would like to focus on something that this specific COP28 has imprinted on me: the sense of community that I am grateful for. I h ear that, a decade ago, youth participation at high-level conferences such as COPs was scarce. Today, “youthwashing” is still most definitely an issue. The polity of the Blue Zone where the negotiations that happen are still not representative of the constituencies that are supposedly served. I cannot count how many times I was invited to contribute to the conversation as the only person under 35 and for the sole purpose of justifying why young people’s presence is necessary. It is a frustrating and unfortunate reality. But even in these past two years, I have seen change. I have received faith and in turn have more faith that these heavy, heavy doors are cracking open wider. During my time in Dubai, I was fortunate enough to reconnect with old friends and newly connected with many leaders from around the world. I also met up with other youth who were attending for the first time and had no idea what to expect. I am somewhere in between those two ends, and I see a bit of myself in both of those versions.  Having been at COP three times now, I am more familiar with the language surrounding the types of strategies youth use to mobilize (direct actions, interventions, bilaterals, and more). I understand what it means to ask questions like, “What are you following?” and answer with terms such as “Article 6.2.” I even share my knowledge by participating in panels like this one, something that I was not comfortable with doing at the start.  But, flying over Glasgow as I draft this blog, I still vividly remember how overwhelming the experience was as a nineteen-year-old, making my first international solo trip and not knowing if this was even real.  After repeated confirmation, I can assure those who have not yet been that this world is real – a venue where youth gather, strategize, educate, inspire, and create change." Thank you Angela for sharing your COP28 experience with the community. Connect with Her on LinkedIn . Alumni, share your stories with us here: ( alumni@mcnpartners.org )

Thanks for taking the time to share your Millennium Fellowship story with the community. Could you tell us a little bit about yourself - who is Danielle Mikaelian? My name is Danielle Mikaelian . I was raised in Thousand Oaks, CA and attended public school before attending Columbia University in New York. Growing up, I learned that my family history was one of resilience. As a descendant of Armenian Genocide survivors who fled to the United States, I feel very privileged to be attending Harvard Law School. My ancestors could not have dreamed that I would have these types of opportunities after they lost everything.  Growing up, I was involved in Armenian organisations like the Society for Orphaned Armenian Relief and the Armenian Church Youth Organization . Upon coming to New York, I joined the Armenian Youth Federation’s New York chapter and became the president of Columbia University’s Armenian Society. I simultaneously became a leader on Columbia’s campus, serving on over ten university executive boards. One highlight was serving as Wellness Chair for the Office of University Life. In this role, I oversaw the university's mental health and wellness efforts, spearheading events like Succulent Study Break and Paint the Night. Beyond this, I served on the Columbia College Student Council Campus Life Committee. Upon graduation, I was recognised as Columbia’s 2021 Student of the Year in recognition of my campus contributions. I also received the Robert Harron Award, a King’s Crown Community Leadership and Excellence Award, and was a Multicultural Graduation Cord recipient. After graduating, I worked as a Government Affairs Intern for the Armenian National Committee of America’s Western Region. In this role, I primarily worked as an Armenian advocate for the Armenian community, corresponding with politicians to advocate for Armenian issues.  I am currently a third-year student at Harvard Law School, where I was named  “Most Involved” by my first year section.” I’ve served on the boards of numerous organisations at Harvard, from the Harvard Association of Law and Business to the Journal of Sports and Entertainment Law. After graduating, I will be working in corporate law at a large transactional law firm.  Thank you for sharing! Could you tell us about your future aspirations, how do you you plan to leverage the in leadership and social impact skills you are sharpening now in future?  I am currently a 3L at Harvard Law School. As a law student, I hope to use my words to drive positive change for different communities. I am particularly interested in promoting gender equality and remain committed to mentoring the next generation of students pursuing higher education. In this regard, I routinely speak at colleges across the country helping provide advice on navigating university admissions processes. As someone who had to teach myself how to navigate college and law school application processes, I recognise the importance of mentorship and enjoy passing on the knowledge I’ve gained through my educational journey.  Beyond this, I am particularly passionate about helping younger Armenians. As the descendant of orphaned Armenian Genocide survivors, I recognise that I have gained access to opportunities that my ancestors would have never dreamed of. Armenians are few in number at top educational institutions, and I have personally spoken to various Armenian organizations to help mentor the next generation. I also mentor younger students interested in pursuing law, speaking to clubs at schools like UCLA and Berkeley.  In addition, I hope to continue my work on gender equality. My Millennium Fellowship project revolved around gender equality. I am currently a 2024 Fellow at an organisation called Ms. JMshat, which is dedicated to the success of women in law school and the legal profession. As someone starting my career in corporate law, I recognise that female representation declines as associates spend more years within the legal profession and strive to make partner . Women now make up around 50% of law firm associates but only 27.76% of partners. I hope to help promote female representation in legal and  other industries as I continue my career.  That's incredible. Do you have any words of advice to can share specifically with Millennium Fellows but generally with young people worldwide who are equally passionate about change-making? First, you are never too young or inexperienced to evoke long-lasting change. Also, I would recommend that younger students find mentors who can support them and provide advice along the way. I’m part of a startup and entrepreneurship class at Harvard Business School this semester called FieldX, and one main takeaway is that most ideas don’t start in their final form. Any proposed ideas likely need to be reworked to some extent, and having mentors around you will help you tweak your ideas to the extent necessary.  The Millennium Fellowship centres on empathy, humility, and inclusion as guiding values. As you reflect on your leadership and journey, are there ways these values have helped shape the leader you are today? My leadership revolves around giving back and positively impacting any community I find myself in. As someone who has served in various leadership roles, I know it is essential to look beyond yourself and do what you can to improve the world for those around you. In this regard, I attempt to centre other voices while dedicating my time to helping others as they navigate their journeys. As busy as my school schedule can be, I actively mentor younger students, whether through taking the time to edit someone’s essay before they submit it to a school or hop on a call to provide insight into the law school application process.  Could you describe your Millennium Fellowship journey, how you found out about it, and what led you to apply? Are there any learnings from your time in the program that you still carry with you today? I joined the Millennium Fellowship as a student at Columbia University. As I mentioned, I've always been actively involved in advocacy work for the Armenian community. I was Columbia’s Armenian Society President at the time, reactivating and growing the organisation to over forty members. Joining the Millennium Fellowship helped me further my advocacy work and become part of a passionate community of changemakers.  The program solidified my desire to connect communities worldwide and pursue advocacy work. Often, programs are limited to a specific area or country. The Millennium Fellowship bridges these divides and allows young, dynamic individuals to connect with otherworldly, passionate changemakers. It’s an unparalleled program, and I’m grateful to have participated.  What was your Millennium Fellowship project? Could you tell us about the motivations behind launching it and how that vision has evolved since graduating in 2020? My Millennium Fellowship Project was the Wonder Woman Project, which highlighted the global disparities women face due to gender barriers. As an Armenian woman, I have always been particularly cognizant of gender barriers and have actively worked to spotlight them while proposing potential solutions. At Columbia, I founded and served as the Editor-in-Chief of the Columbia Women in Law and Politics Journal to highlight gender barriers in law. Through the Wonder Woman Project, I expanded the scope of my gender equality work and interviewed women worldwide about their challenges in advancing their careers.  My dedication to female success has not stopped there. As an Armenian woman, I am particularly cognizant of gender barriers. I am currently a 2024-2025 Ms. JD Fellow, attending events and speaking on panels about women’s legal status. I have also served on the Harvard Women’s Mentorship Committee and spoken to groups of female prelaw students at various undergraduate schools. That is powerful! Could you speak about the social impact work you are involved in now and share what are you looking forward to in the near future? My social impact work is focused on several different sectors. For one, I’m extremely passionate about the educational space and providing students with the knowledge to navigate any university environment successfully. As an undergraduate, I launched a nonprofit college admissions consulting initiative, helping students from minority and underserved backgrounds. I also run a “Student Advice Corner” column for The Armenian Report. I’ve done everything from Reddit AMAs to webinars on the admissions process, helping students receive advice that will help them navigate their educational journeys.  Today, I continue to spotlight women's experiences in the legal profession. For instance, I recently wrote a paper on the rise of female managing partners at law firms in the US. Ladtly, how has your challenging but important activism work shaped you? As the descendant of Armenian Genocide survivors, I am, first and foremost, an advocate for the Armenian people. I have become aware that I will always be one of the only Armenians in any environment I find myself in. My activism work has encouraged me to be resilient while doing my best to be a positive role model for members of my ethnic group. When people see the name “Danielle Mikaelian,” with the “Ian” last name ending that is emblematic of  being Armenian – I want them to think of someone who worked relentlessly to help the Armenian community while doing her best to be a positive role model to those around her.  Danielle Mikaelian is an Armenian advocate with a BA in English Literature from Columbia University. She is originally from Southern California. As a Millennium Fellow, she spearheaded The Wonder Woman Project. Today, Danielle is a third year at Harvard Law School. Danielle Mikaelian has occupied roles at Harvard, including Chief of Staff for the Harvard Association of Law and Business, Co-Managing Print Editor for the Journal of Sports and Entertainment Law, and Co-President of the Armenian Law Students Association. She is passionate about the written word and is a published poet. Beyond this, she writes a column for a publication called The Armenian Report called “Student Advice Corner”. She often speaks to undergraduate organizations to advise the next generation of law school applicants. Danielle Mikaelian plans to move to New York and work at a transactional law firm after graduating.  Connect on LinkedIN

Thank you for joining us today Audry. Can you begin by telling us a little bit about yourself and your background? "Of course, thank you. My name is Audry Chivanga , from Zimbabwe. Growing up, I witnessed several social problems in my community, from an incredibly poor healthcare system to widespread poverty. I think seeing these issues all around me as a little girl ignited something in me. From a young age I became obsessed with finding solutions to local problems. I studied in Harare and I finished my advanced level in 2021, and after that I was blessed to get a place at the African Leadership University in Rwanda under the Mastercard Foundation scholarship studying software engineering." I like to think that my personal triumph paved the way for many. Incredible. As a university student studying in Rwanda, what led you to apply to the Millennium Fellowship?   "As I had mentioned, I have been passionate about community upliftment but I never rooted my work in the Sustainable Development goals - that is to say I had heard about the SDGs but I could not tell you anything about them. So when I saw the Millennium Fellowship’s call for applications and what the program offers, I saw this as my chance to be theoretically empowered by learning about the SDG framework, and at the same time be practically engaged by implementing a social impact project. I decided to apply, get the skills, and be empowered to tackle my project and create meaningful impact. I wanted to understand the topic of social impact in general so that I knew the right direction to follow. Through the Millennium Fellowship, I feel more confident and empowered enough. As we learnt in the curriculum, there is a difference between being helpful and helping - I needed to learn these lessons so I could be the best leader for myself and my community." When I saw the Millennium Fellowship’s call for applications and what the program offers, I saw this as my chance to be theoretically empowered by learning about the SDG framework, and at the same time be practically engaged by implementing a social impact project. Do you mind telling us more about your project with Africa Innovative Network? Growing up in Zimbabwe, I used to see how rich our country was, mainly in youth, but at the same time, there were a lot of problems, like I mentioned earlier. What troubled me was that despite the youth being the largest and most energetic demographic group, all we could do about the issues ailing us was to complain. There was too little action. I realized there were very few true communities of support for those of us who were quietly passionate about making a change. That is when I got the idea of creating a platform where we could connect our different talents to our different potentials. This rapidly grew to become a community for us to innovate and have open discussions on how we can solve problems. In having these open discussions, the most prevalent, 'low hanging fruit' that sparked my interest was a problem many of us saw in our communities- long queues in African hospitals. One time I was at a health facility, and I witnessed the death of an African child in a queue right in front of me. This experience was shocking. After enrolling to study software engineering, I realized my skills might not be enough and a community might just be what I needed. The journey of creating change is more of a ‘we’ than ‘I’. The healthcare sector of my country, for example, requires a multi-stakeholder approach involving people of different expertise. The most important thing is for us to collaborate, stop complaining about the problems we see and start acting on them. So as a Millennium Fellow, I started the African innovative community to do this. Currently, we have a network of 200-250 young people from different African countries. The project started by asking questions like- What if we start making things happen here? What if we start collaborating? So now we evolved to encourage each other to solve local problems in their communities? For example, someone in search of a website developer can come on the platform and since it is a collaboration platform, people can contribute. This way, you don't have to build a solution for a whole problem alone. Our project has been recognized by the national newspaper of Zimbabwe, the Herald . The "African Innovative Community" was not just an initiative; it was the embodiment of a dream. A dream where African youths were armed with knowledge, innovation, and the tools to create change. Structured themes like "Innovative Monday" and "Futuristic Friday" were designed to mold a proactive and innovative mindset among its members. This initiative directly aligns with several of the SDGs including Quality Education (SDG 4), Gender Equality (SDG 5), Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8), and Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (SDG 9). By targeting these SDGs, the community is not only pushing for individual growth but is also contributing to a sustainable, inclusive, and empowered Africa for all. This is an amazing project! Can you tell us about your experience as a Millennium Fellow generally, how has the journey shaped you? I'm humbled to say that I experienced a real mindset change as a Fellow. In as much as I was always engaging with the community to try to solve problems, the Millennium Fellowship changed my perspective on identifying problems and the way I try to solve them. So these decisions improved me as a person. During the Fellowship, I learned about building human-centered solutions and involving community members in all decision-making processes. So it helped in changing my perspective. So it was my time to transform my mind to see solving problems differently. Thank you very much. So the next question I would like to ask is, what is your biggest advice to, prospective millennium fellows that want to apply for the next course? To prospective Millennium Fellows, I would say as they implement their projects, in as much as they want to impact many lives, they should know that it's not about the quantity but the quality. You can impact very few people and that impact will be felt significantly. So they should focus on the quality of the project more than the numbers they have. Be content with the quality of work you are pouring into your community. Connect with Audry on LinkedIn .

Millennium Fellowship alumnus Ernest Mugisha was named a 2022 Chegg Global Student Prize top 50 nominee. He speaks with us about his time as a Millennium Fellow and life as a student at the Rwanda Institute for Conservation Agriculture. Thank you for joining us Mugisha. Tell us a little bit about yourself. Thank you so much. My name is Ernest Mugisha, a Millennium Fellowship alumnus from the Rwandan Insitute of Conservation and Agriculture. I would describe myself as a leader, an optimist, a social entrepreneur and an industrious person passionate about social impact. Where did your interest and passion for social impact start stem from? I must connect my passion for social impact with my personal background. I was born and raised in a very remote Rwandan district, in an unstable area bordering Burundi and the DRC. Growing up we had very limited access to education, health care and other basic needs. We grappled with poverty and exclusion for as long as I remember. Seeing what that level of poverty does to your community shapes you as a child. Despite all this, I was lucky to be academically gifted, and always saw myself as being able to achieve something great for myself, my family, my friends and the wider community. In High School I felt deeply drawn to social impact work and started engaging in a lot of projects. I was constantly inspired by the Rwandese youth who were doing a lot of positive things around me - and it challenged me to also do the same. I started serving my country by launching multiple social impact initiatives, and I've never looked back since. After high school you enrolled in the Rwanda Insitute for Conservation Agriculture. Tell us about your time at RICA. RICA is a higher institution in Rwanda that's serving the new generation of innovators, entrepreneurs, and leaders in agriculture, with the aim of transforming the agricultural sector in our country, East Africa, and Africa at large. Being a student at RICA has been the biggest blessing in my life - although I did not initially plan to study here, nor to pursue a career in agriculture. I was interested in Computer science, awed by all the technological developments taking over the world and wanting to be a part of the tech revolution. But thinking about the small, heavily agricultural district I’d come from, I wondered whether that was my true calling. Right now, 70% per cent of the working population in Rwanda, and 60% of the African population depends on agriculture for its livelihood. Communities here depend on agriculture for our survival. My high school dream was to study at an American university, but RICA came in and offered me a full scholarship to learn more about agriculture and conservation. This was a mindblowing opportunity. Considering my background, I couldn’t pay for tuition fees at university, so the chance to study free of charge at one of the premier African universities was life-changing. As mentioned earlier, I’d also understood that the single most urgent and most pertinent need in Africa was to tackle starvation and make our continent hunger-free. RICA is a world-class university that has exposed me to people of diverse backgrounds from around the world. It is paperless and state-of-the-art, combining outstanding education, high-quality resources, and world-class faculty - making it one of the continent’s foremost institutions. Being here and seeing so many people from so many different places passionate about agricultural solutions has challenged and motivated me to work relentlessly for my country and continent. Among the many opportunities I learnt about while here was the Millennium Fellowship, which has played a pivotal role in my development as a social entrepreneur. Tell us about your time as a Millennium Fellow. How did that experience shape your personal journey? When I read about the Millennium Fellowship for the first time, I immediately wanted to be a part of it. The strong focus on social impact, leadership development, and partnership with the United Nations Academic Impact strongly appealed to me and my peers. As a Millennium Fellow, I got the platform to connect with a global community of youth leaders and to share my ideas with the world. The scale of our class made me feel that I was truly part of a movement. At out Global Town Hall ceremony, I had a chance to interact virtually for the first time with like-minded students from outside my country. Seeing young people in Nigeria, Hong Kong, the USA, and more celebrate together made me feel deeply inspired. Being able to hear from His Excellency Ban Ki-Moon , Sam Vaghar , and other social impact leaders was life-changing, and it only served to convince me that social entrepreneurship was my path. As a Fellow, I appreciated the strong focus on purpose-driven leadership in the curriculum, and the incredible network of outstanding undergraduates. During the Fellowship training sessions, I got to interrogate my purpose, find meaning in my work, understand my role as a young leader in advancing the SDGs, and came out a better social entrepreneur. Today I remain connected with my class of Millennium Fellows through our Alumni platform, and it makes me happy to see everything they’re doing around the world. Tell us a little bit more about your Fellowship project My project, Pangelassa revival is derived from a combination of two words. The first one is Pangea, and the second is Panthalassa. It refers to a new interconnected world, free of separation, exclusion, racism, and more. This project aims at solving the social exclusion in East African communities and providing social prosperity, particularly for refugees. We’re designing systems that make it easy to provide opportunities and donations to the elderly and the displaced by removing barriers. Organisations on the Pangelassa platform are offering employment priority to refugees in Rwanda, and members are donating to the needy directly. We are currently based in two districts and expanding into Kigali, having impacted 1,500+ people so far. In the next 3-5 years we hope to impact up to 5000 lives across Rwanda, Uganda, DRC and other East African nations. Watch full interview with Ernest below: Connect with Ernest Mugisha on LinkedIn

Ariel Zhao is a Class of 2021 Millennium Fellowship alum currently serving as a student liaison at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. In May 2024, Ariel helped organize an event titled "Youth Empowerment and Shaping the Future of Public Health and Sustainable Development" , a critical conversation on global health challenges, youth advocacy, and the Sustainable Development Goals. The session brought together a panel of experts, including MCN Executive Director Sam Vaghar ; and Dr. Awa Coll Seck , former minster of health in Senegal. Ariel wrote this article reflecting on the event and lessons learnt. "I recently spearheaded a virtual event bringing together young leaders, global health experts, and advocates to discuss the critical role of youth in tackling global health challenges .  This event, held on May 6th, focused on how young people can effectively contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The event aimed to ignite dialogue, inspire action, and build connections among a global audience. The event featured a panel discussion facilitated by Ariel Zhao and moderated by MCN Executive Director Sam Vaghar, with Dr. Awa Marie Coll Seck, former Minister of Health of Senegal, as the esteemed panelist. Dr. Coll Seck, renowned for her work in combating infectious diseases and strengthening health systems in Senegal, brought a wealth of experience to the conversation. Mr. Vaghar, a champion of youth leadership and the driving force behind the MCN's global network of empowered young leaders, offered a unique perspective on the power of collaboration and mentorship. The Birth of a Movement: Sam's Reflection on The Millennium Campus Network's journey It all began in a university dorm room.  Inspired by the work of Dr. Paul Farmer and Partners in Health, and Jeffrey Sachs' "The End of Poverty," a group of students, led by Sam Vaghar, recognized the immense challenges facing the world, but also the potential for young people to make a difference. This spark ignited the Millennium Campus Network (MCN), a now-thriving network of 268 universities across 38 countries, empowering young leaders to tackle the Sustainable Development Goals in their communities. MCN now provides a platform for young people to connect with each other, share ideas, and develop their leadership skills. The network offers a range of programs and resources to support young leaders, including mentorship opportunities, workshops, and funding for their projects. Fresh Perspectives, Authentic Leadership, and Sustainable Solutions: Reflecting on the panel The panel discussion delved into three key themes: Young Voices, Fresh Perspectives: The Need for Inclusion:  Dr. Coll Seck emphasized that young people are not just beneficiaries of global health initiatives, but crucial contributors. She highlighted the effectiveness of youth-led programs and the importance of a "bottom-up" approach to finding solutions. "Young people bring a fresh perspective, a connection to the realities on the ground," Dr. Coll Seck said, stressing the critical need to include young people in decision-making processes, ensuring their voices are heard and respected in the global health landscape. She shared the success story of her initiative, the Forum on Health Innovations in Africa, which brings together young leaders to network, learn, and collaborate on initiatives. This forum provides a platform for young people to connect, build relationships, and learn from each other and from seasoned experts in the field. Building Trust Through Authentic Leadership: Mentorship and Guidance:  While acknowledging the inspirational power of established leaders, Sam Vaghar, Executive Director of MCN, emphasized the need for authentic leadership and mentorship within young people's immediate surroundings. He highlighted the challenges young leaders face when seeking mentorship from established professionals, noting that many young people feel ignored or disregarded in their attempts to connect with experienced leaders. Dr. Coll Seck echoed this sentiment, stressing that genuine leaders should be accessible, actively listen to young people, and understand the challenges they are facing. She highlighted the importance of actively reaching out to young people, engaging them in meaningful ways, and recognizing their value as contributors to the larger effort. Empowering Sustainability: Community-Centered Solutions:  The discussion transitioned to the critical role of young people in driving sustainable practices within their communities. Dr. Coll Seck highlighted innovative approaches to addressing poverty, climate change, and other urgent issues. She emphasized the importance of understanding and addressing community needs as a core criterion for success, ensuring that innovations are truly valuable and relevant to the community. Dr. Coll Seck shared a compelling example of a young entrepreneur who addressed a real need in his community: He recognized that local farmers were struggling to preserve milk, resulting in significant waste and financial loss. He therefore leveraged his agricultural knowledge to create a system for collecting, sterilizing, and preserving milk, ultimately establishing a successful business that benefited both the farmers and the community. Mentorship, Opportunities, and Building a Global Network The discussion explored how to connect young leaders with opportunities and support their growth.   Ariel Ackermann asked Dr. Coll Seck for advice on how to help students who are passionate about public health find their start and confirm their career path. Dr. Coll Seck emphasized the importance of starting somewhere and being resilient, acknowledging that finding the right path can be a journey of exploration and experimentation. Dr. Coll Seck suggested that volunteering can be a valuable way for young people to gain experience, build connections, and open doors to new opportunities. Sam Vaghar on the other hand advocated for a two-pronged approach: building local leadership through peer mentorship and increasing awareness of global opportunities through platforms like the Millennium Fellowship. He emphasized the long-term return on investment in young people, highlighting the potential to shape the next half-century of impact by empowering them today. A Call to Action: Supporting Youth-Led Change This panel discussion provided valuable insights for young leaders seeking to make a positive impact on global health.  It highlighted the importance of community-centered approaches, strong collaborations, and effective communication. The message is clear: young people have a vital role to play in tackling global health challenges, but only by working together and building trust with those who are experienced in the field. The event concluded with a call to action, urging participants to engage in mentorship, support youth-led initiatives, and advocate for policies that promote inclusivity and empower young people to drive." Connect with Ariel on LinkedIN . Alumni, share your stories with us here: alumni@mcnpartners.org

'I dream of painting, and then I paint my dream.' - Vincent Van Gogh Blog By Jiyeong Ko and Minkyeong Bae "Jiyeong Ko and Minkyeong Bae are Millennium Fellows and Emerging Technologists from The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, collaborating as the driving force behind the TUNE initiative. Unified by concerns over plastic pollution and a fervour for sustainable fashion. Our blend of fashion expertise and technological acumen positions us uniquely to address environmental challenges in the fashion realm. Through innovative methods like hydro dipping, electroplating, and anodizing, we aim to transform the industry, offering eco-conscious alternatives to single-use plastics. Our shared passion propels us towards TUNE's mission: inspiring a shift towards sustainable fashion practices and nurturing a symbiotic bond between style and the environment. "Through innovative methods like hydro dipping, electroplating, and anodizing, we aim to transform the industry, offering eco-conscious alternatives to single-use plastics" Project TUNE Our Millennium Fellowship project aimed to promote sustainable alternatives to single-use plastics, highlighting their role in marine ecosystem preservation and to boost awareness of marine life. Through initiatives like elementary school sessions and interviews at Hong Kong Polytechnic University's School of Fashion and Textile, we engaged students and professionals. While effective in our outreach, we identified areas for improvement, such as expanding school engagement and incorporating interactive elements for a more impactful educational experience." Minkyeong Bae is a final-year Knitwear Design and Technology student at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University. Minkyeong is an adventurous, caring, and diligent person who continuously challenges herself to step outside her comfort zone. She enjoys bringing out positive energy among groups, and she would like to achieve her project with the help of other members. Throughout her project, she looks forward to educating the local community about fast fashion and sustainable consumption of garments based on virtual experience. Jiyeong Ko is a senior Fashion and Textile student at Hong Kong Polytechnic University. Jiyeong is a passionate student in Hong Kong, who has witnessed the devastating impact of plastic waste on the environment. Motivated by this firsthand experience, Jiyeong is dedicated to reducing plastic pollution. Through initiatives like beach clean-ups and educational campaigns, she strives to raise awareness and inspire sustainable practices. By actively engaging with her community and pursuing academic opportunities related to waste reduction, Jiyeong aims to create a positive impact and foster a cleaner, healthier environment for all. Experience as Emerging Technologist Millennium Fellows "As one of the Emerging Technologists, we got to meet and interact with hundreds of other young technologists from around the world. Within our cohort, there was a diverse group of Emerging Technologists, allowing for open discussions about the innovative fields each of us would like to pursue. Based on our long-standing interest in our school’s Industrial Center, we (Jiyeong and Minkyeong) decided to utilize its facilities to test our imaginations and ambitions. Electroplating, anodizing, and hydrodipping have been crucial approaches to demonstrate the visionary and meaningful aspects of our project. As Jiyeong served as Millennium Fellow and Minkyeong as the Campus Director, we boldly challenged ourselves. Given our design specialisms, we were able to strike a balance between the samples' aesthetic and practical needs. Notably, there were several opportunities specifically designated for Emerging Technologists (ET). Minkyeong had the privilege of leading one such session, a webinar delivered by TGT Fellows. It proved to be a valuable experience that enhanced my public speaking and communication skills. Addressing up to 500 fellows in a single session allowed me to fully develop and refine my soft skills." TUNE’s Inspiring Journey during Millennium Fellowship "The Millennium Fellowship provided us the courage to move forward and consistently encouraged us to think differently and on a larger scale. We were also grateful for our proactive cohort, which fostered collaboration and mutual assistance throughout the journey. We could sense the vibrant energy that formed a flourishing community of empowered youth. During moments of uncertainty about our initiative, we sought guidance from the Fellows, the Program Coordinator, and the group itself to foster our confidence as the changers. We would also like to highlight the School Industrial Center's crucial role in our project. During the sample development process, three staff members supported us in operating the machines with great care. Their assistance was invaluable, and we were able to contribute to the promotion of their environment. We conducted approximately three to four trial samplings, and in the final iteration, the samples emerged as clean and well-crafted. When we presented our progress weekly, the staff members expressed genuine delight and appeared truly satisfied with our work. It was gratifying to see them capturing photos for their own purposes and marketing initiatives, further motivating us to explore different designs for experimenting with additional hydro-dipping machines. In the upcoming semester, we focus on shaping a unique brand identity that aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 14, spotlighting marine life. We aim to craft a resonant brand persona that communicates effectively with our audience. To achieve this, our strategy includes developing a visually compelling identity, setting clear brand guidelines, and conducting thorough market research. Through these actions, we intend to maintain our project's momentum, consistently engaging our audience and reinforcing our dedication to environmental awareness and sustainability." Thank you Minkyeong and Jiyeong for sharing your experience. Connect with Minkyeong and Jiyeong on LinkedIn. Alumni, to share your story, reach out here: (alumni@mcnpartners.org).

"I am Grecia Tello Sosa, currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Business Innovation  at the University of Monterrey. I have a deep interest in social and sustainable entrepreneurship, and consider myself an advocate for various causes, including equal access to education, female empowerment, and the well-being of animals. I have been involved in social impact leadership for a few years. In 2022, I assumed the role of Logistics Coordinator for the Economical and Political Awareness Association (ACEyP). In this capacity, I helped organize conferences and podcast episodes where pertinent information on current events in Mexico and around the world were discussed. I also worked closely with Emprende Mujer, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing resources for female entrepreneurs. My involvement consisted in the creation of educational content aimed at empowering women in their entrepreneurial endeavors. In 2023 I was selected to the Millennium Fellowship as an Emerging Technologist. Guided by my passion for entrepreneurship and business, I embarked on a journey that would end up leading to profound personal transformation. With the support of the Fellowship, my cohort, and the school, I was able to lay the foundation for my new social business venture. It is centered on the production and commercialization of environmental monitoring systems and air quality sensors. These devices play a critical role in providing real-time data on air quality and environmental conditions. Applying to the Millennium Fellowship after being introduced to it by my degree program principal was the best decision I'd made up until that moment. The program provided a platform for collaboration and growth, enabling me to transform my initial business idea into a more comprehensive vision - drawing from the insights of my peers, faculty and the community. Through the program's training sessions, global webinars, and the valuable feedback from my teammates and campus directors, my project evolved. The strength of the team within the Fellowship has made me feel part of a safe space where I can openly discuss concerns, doubts, and the challenges encountered while developing my project. I knew by leveraging technological tools to offer reliable and relevant information on air contaminants, we could empower companies and governments to make informed decisions. I realized that my venture's mission had to be bigger and more meaningful, it had to extend beyond profits. I knew by leveraging technological tools to offer reliable and relevant information on air contaminants, we could empower companies and governments to make informed decisions, particularly in the context of climate action (SDG 13). Simultaneously, we sought to make air quality sensors accessible to individuals who prioritize their health. As of now, we have installed 25 monitoring systems across Nuevo León, contributing to the government's efforts to track air quality in various areas and assess its impact on public health. Additionally, our e-shop and educational blog are gradually taking shape, promising to be valuable resources for anyone interested in environmental sustainability and air quality improvement. The Millennium Fellowship has not only been a support group; it has evolved into a community where guidance and encouragement can be found. As I conclude this semester, I do so with a deep sense of gratitude and commitment to social and environmental causes. The experience has created in me a passion for supporting fellow Millennium Fellows and their inspiring projects, demonstrating the transformative power of entrepreneurship in sustainability and social impact. About me Grecia Tello Sosa is a senior business creation and innovation student at University of Monterrey in Monterrey, NL, Mexico. Grecia is interested in brand and product development, as well as sustainability. Through her project, she hopes to provide accurate information about environmental pollution in the area, so that the proper actions are taken. After graduation, she plans on working in a related field, continuing her education and starting a business. Connect on LinkedIn.

“Seeing the world through rainbow-tinted lenses instead of just pink and blue-tinted ones. It makes the world a little more colorful than before, a little kinder“ A Blog by Aaratrika Santra "Some people are driven by a desire to make a positive impact on society, while others may be driven by a sense of purpose or responsibility to make the world a better place and to make a difference. I didn’t start my project to make the world a better place or to make an impact. I started it after venturing into the journey of studying the gender spectrum and discovered the confusion and apprehension people have regarding the subject, and how lonesome things can get for those grappling with identity. Throughout the process of building my project, Project Alexis, in the Millennium Fellowship community, I learnt that there are other young people out there willing to help make a difference in the world. It showed me that I could be a part of something bigger than myself. Before the Fellowship, I had never imagined that something could come out of this, that this idea of mine could create change. The Millennium Fellowship helped in the transition from just a vision to a project. Gender dysphoria, more often than not, can lead to depression and anxiety. This world is not receptive. Even though I had never struggled with gender identity myself, I resonate with the feeling of being alone. We have all felt like we were spiraling and stranded. That is the beauty of humanity, one doesn’t need to be a part of a specific community to help others not to feel alone. Loneliness is something that all of us have dealt with at some point. Project Alexis is an attempt to provide a safe space for people battling mental health issues due to dysphoria. Sexual orientation and gender identity are integral aspects of our selves and should never lead to discrimination or abuse. In a world that may seem strange or has made them feel ostracized, self-acceptance is important. And only with acceptance can one focus on equality. How can one fight for equality or believe that they deserve equality, when one cannot accept themselves as they are? In this world which views everything through heteronormative lenses, misinformation and misconceptions are rampant. The baseline division which classifies something as masculine and feminine creates confusion and a sense of insecurity. Admittedly, the world has gone through changes and this issue has been noted and accepted; with more and more people now coming out of their shell and removing the lenses but it is far from being over. Misinformation about gender-identity is rampant which has created confusion and more questions than answers. health. Project Alexis is a way to provide correct information through articles, stories, art, craft, posters and many other ways to battle misinformation and help one feel comfortable in their own skin; it is about not making one feel alone and feel that there are others out there. There is a spectrum out there, colours of rainbow- not just pink and blue. This project began because of my conviction that the movement for gender equality can only be achieved by accepting one’s gender identity. Empowerment comes from self-acceptance, from a belief in oneself and one’s abilities. The project is a way to raise awareness, provide people correct information to understand and accept those with gender dysphoria, and a safe place to express themselves through forms of art like poems, stories, and paintings. Empowerment comes from self-acceptance, from a belief in oneself and one’s abilities. The Millennium Fellowship allowed me to actualize my project and gave me the foundation and exposure I needed. In the course of the semester, I have realized the power I have as a young person. In away it also gave me deep faith in my generation - seeing a movement of thousands of hopeful and motivated peers does that. The Millennium Fellowship has played a very important role in 'awakening' my inner drive and turning it into reality. It helped me begin my exploration of SDG 5, pushing for the inclusion of all genders, beyond the binary, with special emphasis on providing help to those battling mental health issues on account of dysphoria. This was the starting point of my journey toward social impact, leadership, and community development. I am grateful to the program for setting me on the road of social impact and making me a part of something bigger." About Me Aaratrika Santra is a third-year student studying Computer Science and Engineering at XIM University. A Data Science and Analytics enthusiast, she is very interested in the power of data in this increasingly data-driven world and how it can be harnessed. She is passionate about forgoing labels and reducing boundaries, hoping for a world that is kinder to those they consider different. She juggles the relationship of being a whimsical writer with the cold logic of science. Her journey of social impact started with Project Alexis. Project Alexis is a way to offer a silent shoulder to rest and a helping hand for those who feel different. Sexual orientation and gender identity are integral aspects of ourselves and should never lead to discrimination or abuse. She firmly believes that only with acceptance can one focus on equality. Thank you Aaratrika for sharing your project. Alumni, if you'd like to share your story with the community, email Team MCN here: alumni@mcnpartners.org

Ariel Ackermann joined MCN as the Regional Manager for Europe in Feb 2024 after spending 5 years facilitating experiential learning and professional development among MIT’s undergraduate students. Her career has woven together her passions for supporting refugees and immigrants, empowering young people, and working toward social justice, intercultural relationships, and sustainable development. She sat down to talk with MCN about her vision for the Millennium Fellowship’s growth in Europe. 1) What is your vision for young leaders on campuses across the globe? "I dream of a global movement of young leaders who feel connected – to their universities, to their identities, to their communities, and to each other – even across timezones, spotty internet access, and the forces that divide us." 2) Why do you think European students should participate in the Millennium Fellowship? "Across Europe, there are so many brilliant and pragmatic young leaders, and university is the perfect time to clarify your values and skills, but without the support of your peers and experience practising effective leadership, it’s easy for those discoveries to evaporate in the hustle of launching your career. When you build a network of peers on your campus through the Millennium Fellowship, you gain thought partners and accountability buddies, and you might just make some lasting relationships to add to your own personal board of directors as you build the foundation of your career. 3) I know you have a background in career advising – how can participating in the Millennium Fellowship boost the career prospects of fellows with potential employers? That’s right, before joining MCN, I worked at a top-ranked university, guiding students early on in their careers. To help students prepare for work after university, I would often ask employers what they are looking for in new hires. Again and again, international recruiters share that they are less attached to the precise degree that a person has, and more interested in learning how the candidate has taken the initiative to put their learnings into practice (keep in mind that in some European countries, like Germany, your degree of study may still be very important to employers!). The Millennium Fellowship is an amazing way for you to develop a project that you are passionate about and that brings together your skills and values. After all, we all know that we do our best work when we’re intrinsically interested and motivated! There are many other skills used and built in the Millennium Fellowship that you can showcase for employers in an application or interview, as well. Some that come to mind are collaborating with people from varied backgrounds, the ability to lead a professional project in English, managing a project from start to finish, solving problems in the moment, and many others. [Side note from my background in career advising: your MF experience will give you many examples to use in a STAR method for behavioural interviews!] But, as I noted in the beginning, skills aren’t the only thing to set you apart in a competitive job market. Employers can teach skills needed to do a job well, but the best employees stand out because of their attitude and values. When you participate in the Millennium Fellowship, you won’t simply build a strong network, tackle one of the Sustainable Development Goals, gain a certificate from the United Nations – you will also imbue your work with MCN’s core values of empathy, humility, and inclusion – the values that will help you succeed throughout your career. 4) Which SDG (Sustainable Development Goal) speaks to you most? I love this question because it allows me to indulge in idealism for a bit. All SDGs are interconnected and intersectional, and they’re all important; it’s invigorating to imagine a world where we have achieved them (we have work to do). For me, the concept that “a rising tide raises all boats” is true when it comes to the SDGs: progress on any one individual SDG will have ripple effects to make progress on the others. From that perspective, I always think we can make the most impact if we think about what is at the intersection of our passions, our skills, what is needed in the world, and what can fulfil our own needs (the beautiful Japanese concept ikigai can help you think through this for yourself). I have always been an environmentalist at heart and in practice, and I get the most energy from working towards sustainability. It satisfies my practical impulse to fix and improve things, intersects with my awe of nature and gardening, and also in my conviction that a connected and healthy community is essential for social progress. If I was applying as a Millennium Fellow, there’s a good chance I would be working on a project to build a permaculture garden to create an inclusive space for refugees and immigrants, people with disabilities, different generations, and the queer community. Oh, and I’d probably lead weekly singing around the campfire and mending circles as part of the project! 5) How will you be working with universities in Europe to build the next generation of global leaders via your role with MCN? I plan to connect with leaders at European universities at every level: from the president, to professors, to staff, and students. One thing I love about MCN is that not only students benefit from the experience, but universities also get a boost by joining a network of 250+ other campuses who support young leadership and global engagement. MCN makes internationalization – a priority for many European universities – easy to accomplish through the Millennium Fellowship, which requires very little effort on the part of universities but can support existing goals of providing an international, connected education for undergraduates. I’m excited to talk with educators and learners at every level of European universities. Feel free to reach out to me at aackermann@mcnpartners.org to explore how the Millennium Fellowship can grow on your campus. 6) What advice would you give to a European student who is passionate about social change but unsure where to start? This answer may seem obvious, but apply to the Millennium Fellowship! The curriculum will guide you and your colleagues as you engage with the foundations of social impact leadership. You don’t need previous experience to start (one reason I think the fellowship is particularly great for students early on in their career), just a vision for how you can affect change on your campus or community! Connect with Ariel on LinkedIn.

"I am Delafrique Deogratias a Class of 2023 Millennium Fellow pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in pharmaceutical sciences from the Mbarara University of Science and Technology in Uganda. I like to call myself an innovator and a passionate SDG 3 advocate whose journey has been fueled by an unwavering passion for herbal product formulation and research. This enthusiasm has driven me to explore the vast potential of herbal remedies and their positive impact on the health and well-being of humans. For years I have been at the forefront of campaigning to transform the healthcare system by championing the integration of herbal and complementary medicines. I aim to ensure that patients have access to effective, safe, and affordable treatment options. Before joining the Millennium Fellowship Delafrique I was already involved in campus leadership, serving as President of the Association of Mbarara University Pharmaceutical Science Students and University Guild Council Chairperson. But this Fellowship experience changed my leadership approach entirely. iN 2023, I was selected as a Millennium Fellow and Campus Director for the Mbarara University cohort, an experience which has helped build my leadership skills, ability to organize, and increased my passion for social impact work. As a Campus Director not only did I run my own Fellowship project, I also supported other members of my cohort as they implemented their diverse initiatives. I was challenged and inspired everyday to demonstrate strong leadership skills and foster a positive environment for my cohort members. I wanted to create a feeling that we were all a family of people passionate about making a difference. This Fellowship allowed me to engage in continuous learning in the niche area of social impact leadership and afforded me an opportunity for professional development while enhancing my personal and professional skills. The training focused on fundamental learning areas such as setting SMART goals and objectives, project management, communication, and problem-solving. I also established deep and valuable connections with other Millennium Fellows around the region. The Students Innovation Award The project I ran as my Millennium Fellowship project became very successful. I ran an initiative to create an innovative Antiseptic Herbal Wound Spray. This was a herbal formulation derived from locally sourced raw medicinal plants, including Bidens Pilosa (Black Jack) and Aloe vera. This innovative formula is proven to help with wound management particularly for minor cuts, burns, and bruises, providing a natural and accessible alternative for patients unable to afford expensive first-aid care. As a result of my work on this initiative, I was blessed to earn recognition from various healthcare players in Uganda, including a prestigious 'Heroes in Health Award' in the 'Students Innovation Award; category. I hope the story of our Millennium Fellowship project, the VEP Antiseptic Herbal Wound Spray serves as an inspiration for young healthcare innovators. It illustrates the transformative power of combining traditional wisdom with modern solutions. Legacy of Sustainability As I graduate from the Millennium Fellowship, I intend to create a lasting legacy by ensuring the sustainability of my projects even beyond the Fellowship period. I am currently spearheading research into the development of grape powder which we hope can be used to help some cancer patients counteract kidney damage. This project aims to explore whether grape powder can help in safeguarding the delicate balance of patient health during and after therapy. In conclusion, I hope the story of our Millennium Fellowship project, the VEP Antiseptic Herbal Wound Spray serves as an inspiration for young healthcare innovators. It illustrates the transformative power of combining traditional wisdom with modern solutions. This creates a harmonious synergy that paves the way for a healthier, and sustainable future. Thank you Deogratius and all Millennium Fellows who continue to make a difference worldwide. Connect with Deogratius on Linkedin.

“We do not need magic to change the world; we carry all the power we need inside ourselves already. We have the power to imagine better.” - JK Rowling Thank you for speaking with us today. Kindly introduce yourself and share a little bit about your Millennium Fellowship project. "My name is Sean Alexander, a graduating business administration student from Scheller College of Business at the Georgia Institute of Technology. I am super passionate about the intersection of business, technology, and policy and enacting change through partnerships. That’s why during the Millennium Fellowship I focused on SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals to help utilize partnerships to create an SDG hackathon. My project “ImpactHack" is the first of its kind SDG Hackathon focused on bringing together policy and technology, both computer science and engineering. We had over 200 students signed up from 13 countries including South Korea, China, Greece, Nigeria, Zambia, India, Bangladesh, Canada, and Kenya with students in the US from Georgia Institute of Technology, Harvard, MIT, UC Berkeley, Cornell, Duke, Emory, Purdue, and more. We have students excited to combine both their policy and technology interests into one hackathon, one solution. With financial support from our campus partners, the Georgia Institute of Technology Sustainable-X Program, the School of Public Policy, the Ray C. Anderson Center of Sustainable Business, and the Georgia Tech Parents Fund, we were able to make the event happen seamlessly! We had over 16 submissions across our tracks where we invited agencies, nonprofits, corporations, and other organizations to sponsor a track within areas of gender equality, sustainability, urban planning, education, and more! We even had Teach for America help sponsor a track." That's spectacular, congratulations on your impact. The Emerging Technologist vertical within the Millennium Fellowship was launched last year. How was your experience as an Emerging Technologist? "It was a great experience getting to have the resources, programming, and support from both the main program and the tech vertical. Jasmine, the community manager, has been phenomenal with being able to support and her willingness to work with us in potentially shaping the program for the students. It’s exciting to know that the Millennium fellowship has recognized and is empowering technologists to be able to create a social impact. "It’s exciting to know that the Millennium fellowship has recognized and is empowering technologists to be able to create a social impact." What problem does your project try to solve, and how does it do that? I was able to partner with Startup Exchange, the largest student-led nonprofit entrepreneurial network and incubator in the United States Southeast, to help solve a few problems. One is connecting students, innovators, nonprofits, agencies, corporations, and all stakeholders into the conversation of building solutions. We were able to do this by intentionally designing the event to invite these stakeholders together to create impact together, similar to the 17 Rooms Initiative. Secondly, we worked to introduce interdisciplinary teams and concepts between technology and policy. We acknowledge that solutions for the future require multiple disciplines and that by bringing students of various backgrounds together, not only did we get students excited to create solutions but also energized to work with students from different backgrounds to amplify their impact and potential solutions. I wanted to create the concept of innovation for the future and social impact by bringing policy and technology students together. We understand that solutions for global challenges have to be interdisciplinary and have to include stakeholders from all across. We were able to not only have a great event, but also gain support from our partners to continue this in the future! "We now have more students interested in interdisciplinary solutions and who understand that policy and technology innovation goes hand in hand when it comes to building solutions for the future." We had a group of three first-year students create Algasphere, a CAD 3D designed and printed solution meant to help collect algae in fish farms to prevent algae pollution and harm. It was amazing to see young students not just passionate about social change and applying what they learned in class, but also actually developing the solution in real life. We partnered with the MILL, Georgia Tech’s Material Science and Engineering Makerspace to allow them to 3D print their prototype!" What were the biggest challenges you faced in implementing your project, and how did you overcome them? "The biggest challenge was coordinating everything. I was blessed to have the support and partnership with Startup Exchange (SX) to help host the hackathon with me (I’m one of the executive co-directors of SX). I had a wonderful team coordinating over 200 students both online and in-person, plus workshops, over 10 different track submissions, about 15 judges with hybrid judging, meals for 3 days and t-shirts for the weekend. It was challenging to make such a quality event, from logistics to marketing and design all the way to fundraising and finances. By properly working with and leading the team, we were able to make the event a success!" Amazing. And lastly, how did being a Millennium Fellow contribute to your achievements as far as your project goes? "The fellowship helped me understand how to frame the work we did and challenged us to understand how to better bring people together to make this happen and truly have an impact towards the sustainable development goals." We are already working to develop a committee of students, campus partners, and other stakeholders to help build out next year’s hackathon. All of our campus partners have recommitted to hosting next year’s hackathon." Connect with Sean on LinkedIn. Millennium Fellowship Alumni, you can also share your story with the community. Reach out here: (alumni@mcnpartners.org)

Aakarshi Srivastava and Anubhava Singla, Millennium Fellows from the University of Delhi South Campus, were selected to join the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development and the World Investment Forum as speakers. This year, the UNCTAD World Investment Forum prioritized sustainable development investment to address global challenges. The two Millennium Fellows had the opportunity to network with world leaders and representatives from various organizations around the world. Speaking about her experience at the UNCTAD and World Investment Forum, Aakarshi stated, “It was a privilege to rub shoulders with world leaders. The conversations and sessions around the social impact sector inspired me the most. ” For Anubhava, the conference was, “a unique and enriching experience, where I interacted with policymakers, academics, and other youth delegates. I learned from their experiences.” "Empowering change begins at the roots of society - Aakarshi" At the conference, Aakarshi Srivastava had the opportunity to meet world leaders who inspired her to dedicate herself to creating social impact. The United Nations Secretary General's Youth Climate Advisor, Joice Mendez, inspired Aakarshi with her work and involvement in the social impact space. "I had the privilege of meeting several world leaders, including the United Nations Secretary General's Climate Advisor. Her optimism and the encouragement she expressed left a lasting impact on my commitment to the field of social impact. During our conversation, I discussed both the Millennium Fellowship and my project. She was delighted to learn about my initiative .In fact, she recently did a webinar for my project.” Aakarshi's passion is to advocate for public policy and social impact. She believes her journey in the realm of public policy reflects her unwavering commitment to addressing pressing global challenges. Aakarshi says she has had a deep desire to help reshape her world into a better place for all with impactful leadership since she was a young girl. “I believe that I am incredibly passionate, ambitious, and disciplined, with a strong desire to be a positive change-maker in the world.” Millennium Fellowship Impact: A Transformative Influence Intending to increase awareness about the social impact space among youth, Aakarshi founded her Millennium Fellowship project “The Conscious Capstone,” a web platform that provides opportunities for individuals engaged in the social impact space to share their experiences and access more information about it. She aims to make the social impact space more accessible for youths. “As a university student, I noticed that a lot of people in my community don't know about social impact space and the opportunities that lie in this domain. I realized the problem lies in a lack of awareness. So we tried to raise awareness and help youth access opportunities and learn more about the social impact space through our platform, The Conscious Capstone.” “The Millennium Fellowship has empowered me with knowledge in the domain of social impact. The necessary tools that the Fellowship provides, and the inspiration from the global webinar speakers has made me believe that I can change the status quo as well.” Aakarshi says she believes the unique exposure and training opportunities provided by the fellowship have helped shape her project more profoundly. The valuable network and inspiration Aakarshi gained from interacting with others in the program, has helped Aakarshi in her journey. “It is always inspiring to learn about social impact from the leaders around the world and in your community; the challenges that they overcome and their achievements. The Millennium Fellowship has given me a network of people who are trying to achieve similar goals. This collaborative environment within the fellowship helped us to make contributions to each other's projects. Being the campus director for my cohort was a cherry on the cake, as it helped me hone my leadership abilities. At the end of the day, these bonds that I have created within my cohort and around the world have given me much-needed motivation and inspiration.” Expressing her wish to continue working on her project, she is looking forward to addressing more pain points by leveraging the idea of innovative simplicity. Aakarshi says, "I want to continue working on my project after the Fellowship and try to establish it as a credible source of inspiration for those looking to make a difference. My goal is to encourage more people to pursue impactful and meaningful careers, and I'm eager to see more youth engage in social impact initiatives. I'm committed to assisting in any way I can to help any individual make an impact.” Anubhava Singla's Reflections: “Real Impact cannot be measured tangibly, it lies in giving voice to the ideas and opinions of individuals dedicatedly working in the social impact space.” Anubhava Singla, a Millennium Fellow from the University of Delhi passionate about sustainability and development economics, also attended the UNCTAD World Youth Form. Sharing his reflections from the conference, Anubhava says: “I was excited to learn about energy transition at the conference. Many people are dependent on non-renewable energy resources for their daily income. When meeting energy stakeholders at the conference, I tried to convey why just transition should form an integral part of the complete energy transition process and through my project, I also hope to contribute to it.” Anubhava started his Millennium Fellowship project “Vriksh” (Trees) which emphasizes the benefits of tree plantation in India. “I hope to explore the role of NGOs, the government, and the private sector in increasing forest cover in India. I recognize how ambitious this project is, but as young leaders ambition is all we have. My project is divided into two halves. First I have written a research paper that explores the problem and the reason behind it. Secondly, I hope to build upon this research and try to address the information gap between the government and the NGOs/ Companies. Inspiring Millennium Fellowship Experiences: Reflecting on his time in the Millennium Fellowship, Anubhava shared how the program contributed to his growth as a leader by fostering introspection and providing valuable learning experiences from other young leaders. “During our bi-weekly training sessions, the Fellowship curriculum invited us to think about what we have done and how we could make our projects better. Even though this was only a small part of the whole experience, it really stayed with me and because of that, I could say the Millennium Fellowship has been an inspiring experience for me. It has also provided me with the credibility that my project needed and helped me to form meaningful connections in the social impact space." Get in touch with Anubhava on LinkedIn. Get in touch with Aakarshi on LinkedIn. Millennium Fellows and alumni, want to share your story with the community? Email us here: fellowship@mcnpartners.org

By: Melody Nguyen, Class of 2023 Millennium Fellow and Emerging Technologist "Can any young woman make it to the United Nations?" It's a question I have always asked myself, and the answer is a resounding yes. Any young woman can make it to the United Nations, starting with a spark of curiosity about the world around us and the confidence in herself to take action. I'm Melody Nguyen, a sophomore at Pace University Pforzheimer Honors student currently studying Digital Marketing and Business Analytics in New York City. I have hopes to see a future where young women in underdeveloped countries have equal access to educational resources as other women in more developed countries. This vision has led me to embark on my UN Fellowship project focusing on creating open-source learning materials for students in communities disproportionately affected by economic inequalities. My Role: Guiding the Next Generation: I am currently leading as a UN Millennium Fellowship Campus Director, guiding a cohort of 15 Pace University Student Founders who are part of the Millennium Fellowship, a United Nations-sponsored global network of over 4,000 undergraduates pursuing careers in sustainable development. My Journey My interest in social activism ignited during my junior year of high school when I immersed myself in my AP World History class. Learning about different cultures, the history of revolutions, historical figures, and the struggle of certain groups of people throughout history sparked the journey that led me to where I am today. Being part of my high school Model United Nations (MUN) team, I realized economic inequality restricts young girls in the least-developed countries. Amid the 2019 pandemic, I saw the world as a bigger place than just one person or one nation where if we all come together to solve a global problem we create change. This was when I decided a platform was needed to help other women living in less ideal environments. It was amazing to see that there are so many wonderful young women and men who do care at my school. Throughout the summer, the Women Empowerment Organization was formed with a network of 50 activists working to build a social media platform to connect people and share our experiences. This was where I learned to develop video content and experienced the invaluable skills of managing the club as President. As it happened, this experience shaped my decision to major in Marketing Analytics in college. Last summer, I had the opportunity to intern at Stanford University’s SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory where I helped develop a website to bring awareness, accessibility, and implementation of renewable energy. Within the Millennium Fellowship, I'm forging connections between my current work and the Santa Teresa High School’s Women Empower Organization to cultivate leadership opportunities for the next generation. Inspiration often springs from the most unexpected places, and for me, it came from the pages of history, the clubs at my high school, and the collaborative spirit of my college campus My Experience at the United Nations: On September 22, 2023, I was privileged to be invited as a delegate to the United Nations SDG Action Weekend and the Brookings' 17 Rooms Session in New York City. It was an incredible experience to be recognized as a youth leader by the Millennium Campus Network (MCN) and to have the opportunity to speak among diverse global stakeholders at the U.N. SDG Pavilion Following the U.N.’s SDG midpoint summit, we explored how the 17 Rooms approach empowers communities worldwide to take the SDGs into their own hands. While in the beautiful indoor garden, I finally got to meet mentors, Abby Canels and Noha Khalqi, who support and inspire college students advocating for sustainable development. The space filled with pride and hope as Noha spoke of MCN's mission for young activists. As eloquently stated in the opening session by Winnie Byanyima, Executive Director of UNAIDS, "It is about leaders in every space doing what they can do to change the world, to save the planet." Her words excite and encourage me to be part of that change. I have listened to numerous personal stories from passionate and intelligent women such as Hawaii Youth Activist Celeste Connors and U.N.’s Biodiversity Expert Di Zhang, who have shown me that any and all efforts we make are worthwhile if we can help each other in the long run. It is opportunities like these that empower students like me to take our goals to a global scale. Discovering the Millennium Fellowship: I connected with the Millennium Fellowship through my college campus' special program coordinator, Dr. Sue Maxam. She is the sweetest and most supportive woman I have ever spoken to. As soon as I saw “United Nations,” I couldn't resist writing my application. I'd always dreamt of witnessing first-hand how global leaders worked together. After encouragement from my caring Professor Chris Ramos, a round of applications, and an interview, I was selected as Campus Director and Emerging Technologist for my project. My goal is to create an online learning program where teachers and students can connect remotely to share experiences. Developing a website that offers virtual tutoring, mentorship, academic guidance, and career services for women worldwide. If you're interested in making a difference through the Women Empowerment project, consider contributing to our Educational Equity Fundraiser, where every donation directly benefits these programs. Your support would be greatly appreciated and invaluable to our cause! Connecting with Fellow Millennium Alums: On September 18, 2023, I had the honor to attend the United Nations General Assembly for the SDG Action Weekend. There, I had the opportunity to do an Instagram takeover, explore the UN Headquarters, and interview amazing leaders such as Africa’s People Empowering People Director, Melvine Wajiri. Guided by the question, "What is one word of encouragement you would give to aspiring young leaders?" I received immense enthusiasm with answers like taking action into our own hands, being open-minded, and utilizing the technology we have around us. Inspiration often springs from the most unexpected places, and for me, it came from the pages of history, the clubs at my high school, and the collaborative spirit of my college campus. I've seen education and technology break barriers for young women. My experience at the SDG Action Weekend strengthened my commitment, and with the support of the Millennium Network, I look forward to inspiring positive change. Together, we can create a future where every young woman, regardless of her background, thrives with access to quality education. Melody Nguyen is a Class of 2023 Millennium Fellow from Pace University, USA. She is also an Emerging Technologist and serves as Campus Director of her Fellowship cohort. Connect with her on LinkedIn.

This year we asked Millennium Fellowship alumni to share what SDG 17 (Partnership for the Goals) means to them. Over the next 4 weeks, Alumni will unpack what partnerships they leveraged to make their Social Impact work successful. They'll explore partnerships with their schools, peers, and communities, then share recommendations on how young people can create and navigate meaningful partnerships to create social change in their communities. "The 2022 Millennium Fellowship has broadened my views on how I perceive the world. By expanding my project and utilizing multiple partnerships, I gained a better understanding of how to bring people from across the university together in collaboration in which we share interests like mental health advocacy. The fellowship has not only helped me expand my network, it also provided me with a chance to learn from others. I’m passionate about facilitating collaboration and an inclusive workplace where members feel a sense of purpose and belonging. In this article, I describe how my journey presents the dynamics and mechanics of effective partnership from four perspectives: partnership with the school system, teammates, community, and peers." - Ariel Zhao, New York University Partnership with School: My journey with the Millennium Fellowship began in December 2020, when New York City was abnormally silent during the Covid-19 pandemic. I found out about the Millennium Fellowship Program in the New York University newsletter and was compelled to apply after reading about Fellows' projects and their work in advancing the SDGs. However, I have to admit that I was a little uncertain of the feasibility for me to expand the project to a scale with the current resources. With a passion for working with youth and mental health, I would like to create a community-based project to increase awareness of mental health conditions among adolescents. In a world that is constantly evolving, forcing many children to grow up fast, I am eager to create a comfortable zone for adolescents to have open discussions on mental health and get access to the support they need. With the help of my NYU advisor, I got recommendation letters and successfully submitted my application on time. Fortunately, in early August 2021, I was informed that my application was accepted. I was thrilled to start planning the recruitment of teammates. I reached out to my advisor Dr. de Leon to see if she could help me spread the word among the Silver School of Social Work. Dr. de Leon posted the news on multiple social media platforms which efficiently reached a large group of students. Without the help of Dr.de Leon, it would have been hard for me to reach like-minded individuals within my major. As an international student, I cherish diversity and hope to engage students of different backgrounds. I value creativity and brainstorming within a team and believe it would be a great opportunity for everyone to learn. To achieve that goal, I reached out to the Departments of Psychology, Global Public Health, Applied Psych and CAMS (Child and Adolescent Mental Studies) and reached out to mental health-related clubs on campus. It wasn’t an easy task in the beginning, since I needed to schedule meetings with all supervisors and most were unavailable. With much effort, I eventually recruited enough teammates to start the project. One recommendation is that it would help super-motivated students to have better practices with a specific advisory panel that manages and shares resources on campus. Partnership with Teammates : In order to ensure a safe and accepting space for all the members to feel included and clear in their roles, I hosted seminars within the group once per week. I believe in encouraging teammates to utilize their strengths, so I make a list of roles with the skills needed and clear expectations for them to choose from. For example, teammates can choose different positions for each workshop that they participate in. We have positions such as lecturers, who are responsible for creating presenting content; we have a student administrator who manages emails, meetings and social media; we also have leaders to focus on other administrative work such as recording, managing breakout rooms, etc. Creating a spontaneous and creative work environment makes me feel like my teammates are more committed and motivated to their roles. From my experience, I realized that not only does it take effort to recruit people that would fit the expectations for the project, managing this partnership with teammates is also very crucial and challenging sometimes We communicate regularly through group chats and have discussions to reach compromise when tackling disagreements or other types of challenging situations. I believe transparent communication and empathetic leadership skills are key in regard to maintaining partnerships with team members. Partnership with Community: As the founder of the initiative, my fundamental role was outreach to potential community partners and negotiating a collaboration agreement with their supervisors. At first, I contacted a previous learning center where I tutored. After my call with the director, we had a mutual agreement to collaborate for our first workshop on “social media’s effect on body dysmorphia.” Even though I was able to find a partner in the community, I faced lots of challenges along the way while looking for partnerships. This might be something that I hope to get more assistance with. We partnered with the same learning centre for two workshops in total. In addition to our media workshop, we hosted a second one on positive psychology. By designing flyers, PowerPoint presentations, and improving communication, we reached double the audience for the second workshop compared to the previous one. I love that we work towards one goal as a whole team and consistently push the progress forward. As an undergraduate student, I lacked the resources to persuade community partners that collaborating would be mutually beneficial. Partnership with Peers: Talking about how we decided on the topics, we conducted short anonymous surveys with peers. Since our peers are all undergraduate students, we would let them reflect on how they felt at adolescent age and what struggles they saw most often in themselves and in their peers. This experience reveals that partnership with peers can contribute a more macro perspective on shared advocacy and community service. It helps us dive deeper into the market of target audiences. One concern was about predictability, in which the answers from college students might not correctly reveal the thoughts of today’s adolescents. The data was not right for the targeted demographics, since we are aiming for pre-college students, but we ended up researching among college peers. Society evolves faster than we expected, so I would most likely choose to research adolescents instead to convey a more accurate tendency in the future. Author: Ariel Zhao. Ariel is a Class of 2021 Millennium Fellowship alumnus and student at New York University pursuing a B.S. in Social Work. As a Fellow, Ariel and her team ran 'ENGAGE', a community-based project spreading awareness about adolescent mental health conditions in New York. Learn more.

Onyinye Omenugha is a Nnamdi Azikiwe University law school graduate, currently studying to join the Nigerian bar. She describes herself as a social innovator, a passionate SDG 4 advocate, and a committed changemaker. Her social impact work has earned widespread recognition, including the National Changemaker’s award from the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Networks, 30 Under 30 Rising Stars of the Legal Profession in Nigeria, 25 Under 25 Awards in Education, SuperWoman Under 30 Awards and Leadership Icon of the year award. She has also been recognised as a Queen's Commonwealth Trust Young Leader, a Theirworld Global Youth Ambassador, and most recently, a Princess Diana Awardee. This award is established in honour of Princess Diana to recognise young people working to develop and inspire positive change in communities worldwide. ‘I hope to inspire other young people, particularly Millennium Fellows, to make them see all that is possible when they passionately pursue their visions’. Onyinye shares that she has been interested in social activism since she was a young girl. "I've always been that girl. My first act of activism happened when I was about 11. I studied at a remote community primary school in my village which did not have a culture of recognising and rewarding outstanding students. When I graduated and moved to a missionary secondary school, I realised how much positive reinforcement meant to young people who showcase potential for excellence in academics, sports and more. It was clear to me that students generally perform better when they feel seen and appreciated. So during my school break, I returned to my primary school and worked with teachers and students to establish an award-giving day, a tradition that continues till today. I’ll always remember how proud this minor act of initiative made me feel.” At Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Onyinye served in multiple leadership positions, including as Zonal Director of the Law Association Students of Nigeria. While serving in this role, she had an experience which she says set her down the path of SDG 4-centred, social impact work. “As Zonal Director I coordinated projects for law students and hosted regional conventions where key players in the legal industry mentored university students. While doing this work, I met a law student with a disability who confided in me all the challenges he faced in law school, ranging from lack of resources, discrimination, lack of opportunities, and more. We appointed him as the first zonal representative for law students with disabilities, enabling him to advocate for other differently-abled undergraduates. But I still felt that I needed to do more. Around that time I learned about the Millennium Fellowship. Something about the social impact training and support in implementing a community impact project deeply resonated, so I applied and created the Fellowship project, ‘LawsanAid’.” Through Lawsanaid, Onyinye and her team work to ensure law and aspiring law students with disabilities in Africa enjoy quality education in line with the UN SDG 4. They provide support in law school applications, advocacy for inclusivity, and tuition scholarships. The initiative has since been registered in Nigeria as ‘Law Students with Disabilities Aid’. “What we’ve been able to achieve since the Millennium Fellowship is beyond my wildest dreams. The training and mentorship I received during the Fellowship were crucial, from the social impact speakers, my incredible cohort and program alumni. We convened a continental network of Lawsanaid ambassadors across Africa, from Ghana, Zambia, Morocco, Kenya and more, all of who are helping advance our mission of making law schools equal access areas for students with disabilities. We also collected data on law students with disabilities across various campuses, organised competitions and training, and hosted webinars, seminars, and more. We also provide free legal lessons to students in the network as they prepare for their final exams (Called JAMB in Nigeria)." Asked about her proudest achievement through the Millennium Fellowship project 'Lawsanaid', Onyinye pinpoints two which are particularly close to her heart; “Over the last two years, we had to learn the ropes when it came to fundraising because we knew the most major challenge differently-abled students were facing was a lack of resources to take themselves through law school. We’ve since been lucky to secure several modest grants, enabling us to pay one student’s entire law school fees and provide them with a reasonable stipend. We’ve also secured a sponsor who supports another student through his studies.” As a result of this work, Lawsanaid won the Global SDG innovative challenge hosted by the Dubai Government last year. Onyinye sees this as just the beginning of a long career in social impact. “I am thankful to the Millennium Fellowship because if it wasn’t for the platform it provided me, none of this would have been possible. As a Fellowship applicant, I was challenged to create a Project idea, think critically about my SMART goals and formulate an actual plan. During the program, the open-door style of leadership inspired me. There was a lot of support from the network, and interacting with the leadership and other campus directors helped me sharpen my leadership and organising skills. Overall, just being within an ecosystem of youth change-makers helps spur you to action. Fast-forward two years and now we are present in multiple countries, solving a niche problem, and helping young disabled Africans apply for and go through law school. After receiving the Diana Award, Onyinye hopes their work will continue expanding and supporting differently-abled students in need. “This work is far from over. According to the WHO, out of 8 billion people in the world, 1.3 billion people experience a significant disability. The question now is what will we do as young people to make this the most inclusive generation? I hope to be at the forefront of that conversation. Connect with Onyinye on LinkedIn. Alumni, share updates on your project and career with the community. Email: (alumni@mcnpartners.org)

Last month, a delegation of 15 Millennium Fellows attended the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Youth Forum at the United Nations in New York. The Forum was co-organized by the ECOSOC president, the Department of Economic and Social Affairs, and the UN Youth Envoy to provide a platform for young people to dialogue with United Nations member states and share their views on how to make the world a fairer, more sustainable place for this generation and the next. Millennium Fellows at the forum engaged policymakers, government representatives, youth leaders, and more global players in the public and private sectors. MCN and UNAI also co-hosted a virtual side event at the ECOSOC Youth Forum 2023. The event, titled "Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17) between undergraduates working on Social Impact and Universities," was co-moderated by the UN's Gabrielle Vardeleon and MCN's Dr Abigail Canales Ibarra. Young leaders attending the side event resolved that supporting student leaders who are committed to creating social impact with the SDGs can benefit universities and society as a whole. By fostering a culture of social responsibility, attracting and retaining students, building partnerships and collaborations like the Millennium Fellowship, and addressing societal challenges, universities can play a key role in creating a more just and sustainable world. Partnerships between undergraduates working on social impact and their universities (SDG 17) can be incredibly valuable for achieving the SDGs. By leveraging the resources, expertise, and support of universities, students can more effectively implement their projects and make a greater impact on communities worldwide. We extend our gratitude to all Millennium Fellowship alumni present in New York for the Youth Forum, including Ariel Zhao, Lulu Okeke, Claudia Cabral, Ian McPherson, Sean Schrader, Aissatou Gningue, Charlie Zong, Suzanna (Siyu) Chen, Sanjay Sudarsan, Sarosh Nagar. Three of them have shared their reflections and learnings from the Forum below: Ariel Zhao: New York University '23 || Harvard '27 "I had the privilege of attending the ECOSOC Youth Forum at the UN Headquarters from 25-27 April 2023 as a delegate of the Millennium Campus Network. The forum addressed intergenerational equity's vital role in social equity and sustainable decision-making. It stressed the need for governments to enhance youth participation and establish consultation mechanisms and global standards. Secretary-General Guterres emphasized youth engagement in UN decision-making and advocated a standing UN youth town hall process for diverse and representative participation. One of my key takeaways from the forum is the importance of incorporating perspectives from different generations in the process of achieving social equity. Examining the roles of social and intergenerational equity is critical in influencing human well-being and achieving more sustainable decision-making. It is essential to involve youth in decision-making processes to ensure their voices and perspectives are heard, as they will be the ones to inherit and shape the future. As a Millennium Fellowship Alumnus, I had the opportunity to discuss my project aimed at strengthening SDG 3 "Good Health and Well-being." I aim to serve Chinese-American youth ages 15-18 in NY through evidence-based psychoeducational workshops designed for early mental health education intervention. With a culturally informed and community-based approach, we equip clients with strategies to thrive in this vulnerable developmental stage. The forum allowed me to share my project with fellow youth leaders, member states, and global leaders and gain valuable feedback and insights. I am immensely grateful to MCN for their steadfast support and guidance throughout my journey. In addition to providing invaluable platforms for broadening our global perspectives and acquiring comprehensive knowledge, I am particularly grateful for MCN’s concern for us as individuals and their efforts to connect us with multiple invaluable networks and partners. I am truly grateful for the resources and opportunities that MCN has facilitated for us, which have been instrumental in our personal and professional growth." Sarosh Nagar: Harvard University '24 "On April 25th, I had the distinct pleasure of attending the 2023 United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Youth Forum at the invitation of ECOSOC President Her Excellency Lachezara Stoeva. Alongside a delegation of 14 other brilliant Millennium Fellows and Sam and Abby from the Millennium Campus Network (MC), I had the opportunity to attend the summit, speak on key policy topics, and meet brilliant young leaders from across the world who are running organizations, building devices, and more to help the world achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. At the Summit, I focused on SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. My fellowship project is a nonprofit I founded called the Emerging Technology Group (ETG) (formerly Emerging Technology Initiative, featured in a previous Millennium Fellow feature here.) We work across 5 continents with more than 10 partners to leverage technology for social good, using technological tools to conduct original research, develop policy recommendations, build inventions, and more to leverage technology for good, with our work presented to the White House and more. At the ECOSOC Youth Forum, I had two key privileges. First, I had the opportunity to discuss ETG’s work with a global audience, especially through United Nations Academic Impact (UNAI) and MCN’s side event where we discussed how to use technology in non-traditional ways for the social good. However, even more importantly, I had the opportunity to listen and learn. Many of my fellow Millennium Fellows had wonderful projects focused on science and technology." Abigail Canales: Partnerships Manager, MCN "The SDGs are intended to be achieved by 2030 and beyond, and young people will be the ones living with the consequences of today's political decisions for many years to come. Therefore, it is important to involve young people in the policy-making process to ensure that their perspectives and concerns are taken into account and that policies are designed to have a lasting impact. Let's speak up even if our voices tremble! I lack the words to express the admiration I have for the Millennium Fellowship alumni who were part of this incredible experience. Despite the difficulties around the world, they are the ones who not only create hopes for a more just and equitable future for all but also take action to achieve it. Every day, the destinies of nations and the fate of our planet are shaped by the decisions made by politicians and leaders. These choices carry profound implications for the present and future generations, particularly impacting the lives of young people who will inherit the world we leave behind. Sadly, in many instances, the voices of these young individuals are disregarded, their perspectives overlooked, and their concerns neglected. The need to include and engage young people in decision-making processes cannot be overstated. They are the ones who will bear the long-term consequences of political actions, environmental policies, and social reforms. Their perspectives, innovative ideas, and passion for a better future hold immense value and should be recognized as invaluable resources for building sustainable and inclusive societies. It is disheartening when decisions are made without adequate input from those who are most affected by them. The exclusion of young people from the decision-making table not only undermines the principles of democracy and inclusivity but also denies them the opportunity to contribute their unique insights, experiences, and aspirations. By actively involving the youth in political decision-making, we create a platform for their voices to be heard and their concerns to be addressed. This inclusive approach fosters a sense of ownership and empowerment, encouraging them to actively participate in shaping their own future. When young people are given the opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue and collaborate with decision-makers, the outcomes reflect a broader range of perspectives and priorities that better represent the diverse needs of society as a whole. Inclusion is not just a matter of justice and fairness; it is a strategic imperative for a more sustainable, equitable, and prosperous world. By embracing the perspectives and insights of young people, we can pave the way for a future that better represents the needs and aspirations of all generations, fostering a society where every voice truly matters. The ECOSOC Youth Forum was a positive step in this direction."