Category: LEADERSHIP PROGRAMS

Embarking on a transformative journey towards global leadership is a dream for many. The Obama Foundation Scholars Program in the USA stands as a beacon, inviting emerging leaders from around the world to partake in a life-changing experience. In this article, we delve into the intricacies of this exceptional program, exploring its genesis, mission, partnership with Columbia University, eligibility criteria, fellowship details, and the significant impact it has had on previous scholars. Overview of the Obama Foundation Scholars Program The Genesis of the Program The Obama Foundation Scholars Program, initiated in 2018, has been a testament to the vision of empowering and inspiring individuals worldwide. This program brings together those who have demonstrated a commitment to addressing challenges in their communities, countries, and regions. Mission and Objectives The mission of the Obama Foundation is clear: to empower, inspire, and unite people globally to change the world. The Scholars Program, a vital component of this mission, aims to cultivate a generation of changemakers capable of confronting contemporary challenges wisely and effectively. Table: Benefits of the Obama Foundation Scholars Program Aspect Details Program Duration Nine months (Summer 2024 to Spring 2025) Financial Support Monthly stipend, covered tuition, and other fees Accommodation Furnished studio apartment within the University Insurance Coverage Medical, dental, and life insurance provided Travel Facilities Air travel to and from the home country Host Country The USA Host University University of Columbia Focus Areas Strengthening governance, environmental sustainability, access to healthcare, gender violence, women’s rights Eligibility Criteria Emerging leaders with significant contributions, leadership skills, and commitment to community service Application Process Apply through the official website of Columbia University, submit required documents, and adhere to the December 12, 2023, deadline Program Structure Skill-based, academic, and experiential learning, full-time residential program not mergeable with other degree programs Mission Empower, inspire, and unite people globally to change the world Global Impact 70 scholars from 54 countries contributing to education, civic engagement, and sustainable development Partnership with Columbia University Columbia Global and Columbia World Projects initiative, bridging research with global needs Cultivating Changemakers Building a generation of leaders capable of confronting contemporary challenges Return Commitment Scholars commit to working for the benefit of their communities after program completion Language Requirement Fluent in oral and written English Partnership with Columbia University Columbia Global and Columbia World Projects One distinctive aspect of the program is its collaboration with Columbia University. Sponsored by the University of Columbia, the program is part of Columbia Global and Columbia World Projects. These initiatives aim to bridge the gap between global needs and the research capabilities of the university, working on projects with clear objectives and dimensions. Transformative Learning Experience The program, spanning nine months from summer 2024 to spring 2025, offers a transformative learning experience. It combines skill-based, academic, and experiential learning, catering to leaders at a breakthrough moment in their careers who have already made significant contributions to their respective fields. Eligibility Criteria Emerging Leaders from Across the World The program seeks emerging leaders from diverse backgrounds, inviting individuals who have shown dedication to community service, inclusivity, courage, hope, imagination, accountability, integrity, strategy, and resilience. Significant Contributions to Fields Applicants must have a track record of significant contributions to their fields, showcasing leadership skills and a commitment to making a positive impact on their communities. Leadership Skills and Commitment Selected candidates are expected to commit to working for the benefit of their communities upon completing the program. The focus is on implementing the gained knowledge, skills, and networking for the betterment of society. Fellowship Details Full-Time Residential Program The fully-funded fellowship is a full-time residential program that runs independently of any degree program. Non-matriculated individuals from Columbia University are preferred applicants. Focus Areas and Challenges Addressed The program addresses key challenges such as strengthening governance, ensuring environmental sustainability, enhancing access to high-quality healthcare, curbing gender violence, and promoting women’s rights. Scholars engage in projects that have a lasting impact on these critical issues. Global Impact and Previous Scholars Since its inception, the program has welcomed 70 emerging leaders from 54 countries. These individuals have gone on to become leading practitioners in various fields, including education, civic and community engagement, and sustainable development. The Role of the Obama Foundation Empowering Changemakers Globally The Obama Foundation, through its Scholars Program, plays a pivotal role in empowering individuals to become changemakers. It envisions a world where people unite and move forward for a better future, changing history one positive step at a time. Building a Generation of Leaders The program aligns with the broader mission of building a generation of leaders capable of confronting the challenges of our time wisely. It emphasizes the importance of unity and forward progress for a better world. Columbia World Projects: Bridging Research and Global Needs Meaningful Connections and Initiatives Columbia World Projects, as a university-wide initiative, seeks to build meaningful connections between global needs and the research capabilities of Columbia University. Through specific projects, it aims to have a broader effect beyond the immediate scope of the initiatives. Broader Effects and Successful Practice The initiative focuses on translating research work into successful practice, ensuring that the impact extends beyond the projects themselves. By addressing global needs with clear objectives, the university contributes to positive change on a larger scale. Host Country and University The USA as the Host Country The program takes place in the United States, offering participants the chance to immerse themselves in the rich cultural and academic environment of the country. University of Columbia as the Host University The University of Columbia, renowned for its academic excellence, serves as the host institution for the Scholars Program. Participants benefit from the university’s resources and expertise throughout the nine-month journey. Program Duration and Benefits Nine-Month Transformative Journey The program spans nine months, from summer to spring, providing a comprehensive and transformative experience for participants. Monthly Stipend and Covered Expenses Participants receive a monthly stipend, and the program covers tuition and other fees. Additionally, scholars are provided with a furnished studio apartment within the