My aim is to be able to address global challenges by finding innovative local solutions to the world’s problems. I want to utilise what I learn as a base for change that I want to bring back to Zimbabwe through a better understanding of the SDGs by utilising NGO’s and other high profile organisations for my country’s economic freedom. On a more intrinsic level, the ability to analyse situations more holistically, regarding the political, social and legal facets of any country, providing an opportunity to implement my solutions apportioned to the three facets cited above in society. Being a recipient of the UCF Foundation scholarship was a not only shock but extremely humbling as well, as current students are making an international tertiary education more accessible to prospective students from all walks of life – a truly amazing feat!

After finishing high school, my focus on what I wanted to achieve in life was crystal clear. I wanted to acquire the skill set necessary for a professional career geared towards achieving a cleaner environment, absolute tolerance for diversity of opinion, greater gender equality and eradicating poverty and hunger through advocacy for social and distributive justice. That was when I got to know about this new program starting at the university, which seemed really intriguing to me. Hence, today I am one happy and content student studying in what I believe. The ambience of the campus and the people involved in building it are all very helpful and sweet which made me feel right at home since the beginning. The scholarship I received to cover a part of the living expenses acted like an added cherry on top.

In October 2019 I started working as an intern with the UCF Foundation on the goal of making university education more accessible for everyone regardless of financial or geographical background. Being one of the pioneers of the bachelor program Global Responsibility and Leadership myself, I was eager and passionate to make my own study program more inclusive as well as providing more equal opportunities for students also for the Global South to participate in this unique study.  

From the beginning onwards, I was welcomed with open arms from the team and was able to quickly take over responsibility by working on the strategic plan for the upcoming years as well as dive into the creative work of organising fundraising activities for the foundation. My opinion was taken very seriously, which gave me the feeling of contributing and being a valuable part of UCFF´s journey. Moreover, every proactive input, next to the tasks I was trusted with,  has been welcomed and appreciated by everyone.  Further, I loved how independent I was able to divide my tasks and organising events.

My favourite parts were to organise a volunteer team that is motivated to contribute and assist UCFF in its mission as well as gaining experience through working on the content of the strategy document and designing a new logo for the foundation. Throughout time, I have developed new expertise and broadened my horizon by gaining insights and skills in the process of establishing and advancing a young foundation. Overall, I could not be more thankful for the opportunity and experience. I truly hope to stay an active part of UCFF throughout my final year of study in order to not leave this inspiring team and further work on making more scholarships available in the future.