Process So Far

Planning:

So far I have had meetings with my house fellow Olivia Williamson as well as our fellows Omar Knio and Revelyn Fernandez and here are the main ideas and planning thinking:

→ Different contexts different political and economic problems.

→ “Giving back” opportunities by being in a community of 100+.

→ Who I am and how can I make the most out of this?

→ Mission is to explore, compare, and contribute.

→ Impact idea: Impact on myself - understanding different contexts around the world & seeing learning as a long journey.

→ Grassroots/hands-on-the-ground experience vs. the speaker interviews and talks - similarities, differences, cultural norms.

! Reaching NGOs and speakers ahead of time to volunteer and arrange meetings.

Post-Baret-Speakers & Take Aways From Them:

18th of September

Alfred Bridi:

“Land of the Free and Home of the Brave? The Ever-Evolving Story of Immigration in the USA”

Context:

Immigration has long shaped the US, enriching its economy and culture while sparking debates on border security and citizenship. Alfred Bridi, a seasoned immigration attorney with Scale LLP, will discuss the future of immigration in the US. Bridi specializes in employment- and family-based immigration, advising on visas, naturalization, and compliance for global institutions. His diverse experience includes work with organizations like Doctors Without Borders and legal counsel for the Oscar-nominated film Capernaum. Fluent in multiple languages, he is a graduate of the University of Chicago Law School and a strong advocate for immigration justice globally.

Notes:

→ Turn disadvantage into advantage.

→ How I am better/ Why I am different/ How that makes me unique.

→ “...anticipate in the change but enjoy it”.

→ Worked for DWB.

→ Language & experience around the world: soft skills.

→ recognize your pattern.

→ How are you different from everyone else.

→ Excellency: craft & values.

→ Authencity - accepting who you are.

→ “displeasure with opinion”.

→ What is not enough?.

→ Reinventing GAP year with a global perspective: Beret Scholars.

→ Consume Information & seek-out the best self.

Wendy Kopp

“The Power of Giving: Education”

Context:

Despite the universal belief that democracy relies on well-educated citizens, access to education in America remains unequal, with some schools well-funded while others struggle. Organizations like Teach For America and Teach For All aim to close this gap. Wendy Kopp, CEO and Co-founder of Teach For All, will discuss ongoing efforts to improve educational access. Kopp, who founded Teach For America and led it for 24 years, has expanded her work globally through Teach For All. She is an author, holds honorary doctorates from 15 universities, and has received numerous awards for her contributions to education and social entrepreneurship.

Notes:

→ Analyze the needs and do good.

→ Fixate yourself on a plan/ aim and work really hard for it to make it happen.

→ “glue-ing”.

→ trying to solve deep-rooted issues .

23rd of September

Sameer Shafi Warraich

“Purpose-Driven Startups: Harnessing Positive Impact for Growth”

Context:

In the startup world, integrating positive impact into business models is essential for success, as purpose-driven missions enhance brand strength and consumer preference. Sameer Shafi Warraich, Principal Analytical Consultant and Startup Success Manager for Google's Project 2030, will discuss the importance of social impact in business and unconventional career paths. Warraich, who helps businesses achieve sustainable development goals, also serves on the board of the Squeaks Foundation, which provides scholarships for underprivileged female students in Pakistan. His career, blending data analytics and social impact, reflects his commitment to driving positive change.

Notes:

→ Social impact → education to make a positive change.

→ Educated women at home can multiply.

→ Set up focus groups/ mentor people.

→ Proof of Concept.

→ Focus on your own society and aim overcoming obstacles to help people.

What about the future?

I plan to reach out to speakers who may be interested in my project to request interviews, resources, and insights regarding the specific context of the region. While these speakers are likely to be very busy, I will ensure to ask key questions or observe how they respond to my cohorts’ questions during Q&A sessions. Simultaneously, I will focus on connecting with NGOs to explore volunteering opportunities and make a direct impact on the ground. By comparing my research with real-life applications, I aim to contribute meaningfully to helping those in need.

Ideal speakers:

→ Clay Morad (24th of September)

→ Daniel Bogre Udell (26th of September)

→ Michael Moe (26th of September)

→ Marquise Stillwell (3rd of October)

Next stop Mexico…