Student Assistant Zain Patel Shares His Experience Working with the 2023-2024 Mandela Washington Fellows
by Zain Patel, student assistant
Global Affairs Student Assistant Zain Patel spent his summer with the 2023 Mandela Washington Fellows as they explored, shared ideas and connected with the UC Davis, Davis and Sacramento communities. Below, he discusses his experience working with and getting to know the Fellows and explains how they inspired him through their passion for change and exemplary leadership, as we highlight some of the activities the cohort participated in during their fellowship this summer.
"My experience working with the Mandela Washington Fellows was an enriching and transformative journey that left a profound impact on both my personal and professional growth."
"As a member of the team responsible for organizing and supporting their fellowship program, I had the privilege of witnessing the incredible potential and passion of these young African leaders. Working with the Mandela Washington Fellows provided me with a unique opportunity to engage with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds across Africa."
"Each Fellow brought their distinct experiences, perspectives, and ideas, contributing to a rich tapestry of knowledge and understanding. Through meaningful interactions and discussions, I learned about the challenges and opportunities faced by their respective communities."
"Learning from the cohort fostered a profound sense of empathy and opened my eyes to the interconnectedness of global issues. The Fellows' stories and aspirations transcended borders, highlighting the universal desire for positive change and social impact."
"Interacting with the Mandela Washington Fellows offered a firsthand glimpse into their exceptional leadership qualities and unwavering determination."
"These young leaders have demonstrated remarkable resilience and tenacity. Listening to their stories of transformative change in their communities motivated me to be more proactive and steadfast in my own pursuits."
"My experience working with the Mandela Washington Fellows was an extraordinary journey that deepened my understanding of global issues, leadership, and the transformative potential of cross-cultural collaboration. Witnessing the Fellows' passion, resilience, and dedication to making a difference in their communities left an indelible mark on my heart."
"The conversations I had with the Fellows, both professional and personal, have inspired me to continue advocating for positive change and to be a catalyst for creating a more constructive and compassionate world.
"As I carry the lessons learned from this journey forward, I am committed to being an advocate for social impact and to fostering meaningful connections across borders. Thanks to this program, I know without a doubt I will not be alone in pursuit of this endeavor."
"Although I’m sad to see them leave, I am comforted by the fact that I now have friends all over the African continent, and I cannot wait to see what these exceptional leaders accomplish in their communities and countries."