My journey with One World Together started during my Master’s in Global Development at the University of Manchester. The vision Niki presented of a system that champions community-led projects and directly allocates unrestricted funding to them inspired me.
In a society where systemic injustices and socioeconomic inequality can create a sense of division, finding a platform that actively promotes transformative change creates a sense of hope. My academic and professional career goal is to comprehend and contribute to resolving the structural inequalities underpinning global social challenges.
I believe that every person should have access to equitable opportunities and the power lies within each of us to create these. Every citizen has the ability to effect meaningful change. Another component that I believe is very important is learning. This not only includes discussions of how the future could look like and how we would like it to be, but also questioning and challenging the status quo.
As a Youth board member, I had the privilege of working with a diverse group of brilliant young people from around the world.
Our combined efforts have led to advancing OWT’s mission, promoting youth engagement, coordinating community activities, and establishing the first OWT Student Union at the University of Manchester. The community building summit created just that space for knowledge exchange between the partner organisations and us.
To overcome current social, economic, and political inequities, active global citizens are essential. One World Togethers goals, initiatives, and partner organisations emphasise and showcase the significance of citizen engagement in creating a better future. Thus, another event that stood out for me was the talk the OWT Students Society hosted with Jon Alexander discussing the citizen story.
Over the next five years, I see One World Together growing in influence and scope and emerging as an ideal for trust-based funding systems. As OWT develops into a movement of global citizens, I envisage it utilising international learning exchanges, forging closer ties with local organisations around the world, and bringing about systemic change in creative ways.
My personal goal is to work in and with projects where I can use and refine my knowledge and expertise in community engagement, project management, advocacy, youth-led change, and education. I aspire to assume more substantial leadership positions, to aid in the overall decrease of social disparities.
When I’m not preoccupied, I enjoy a number of hobbies that relieve stress and stoke my curiosity. The top three activities on my list are reading, travelling, and being outside. Whether they are the vivid cultures and landscapes met in real life or the fascinating worlds found in novels, I think there is great pleasure in delving into new places. Every journey is an opportunity to engage with people and their experiences, broadening my outlook and comprehension of the world.
One thing about me that not many people are aware of is my intense fascination with equestrian therapy. I got the chance to help and instruct kids and young adults in this special kind of therapy—horseback riding—during my volunteer work. It enhances their emotional, mental, and physical health. In addition to being immensely fulfilling, this experience demonstrated the significant influence of non-traditional therapeutic approaches.
Written by Nele Engbrecht
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