Starting my nonprofit Cycle Sustain in my sophomore year, I aimed to explore education and sustainability across cultures. By connecting with nonprofits through American Women for International Understanding (AWIU) and other volunteer experiences, I expanded Cycle Sustain to eight countries. Along the way, I was introduced to new languages such as Nepali and Swahili, improved my Spanish and Mandarin, and learned about diverse traditions from local communities.

Through AWIU, I collaborated with the Anasi Farmers Association in Kasese, Uganda, to launch a social entrepreneurship initiative. I helped start their retail business and expand their market in the United States, gaining insights into Uganda’s clothing customs, retail trends, and student life. My AWIU mentor Rita Das introduced me to her business Village Lift where I now lead the social entrepreneurship division. In this role, I support organizations in Uganda and beyond in creating businesses that reinvest profits into their communities.

The GIP Program offers the chance to hear stories I might not otherwise encounter, learn about global challenges, and draw inspiration for new projects. Just as Ms. Diederich introduced me to AWIU, I hope to expand my global impact and deepen my understanding of the world through this program.