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Nancy Mba, one of the Talloires Network’s Steering Committee Student Representatives, attended the Open Society University Network’s Get Engaged Student Leadership Conference in June 2024. The Get Engaged Conference brings together students from across the globe to develop community leadership skills and collaborate on solutions to local and global challenges. Workshops focus on leadership, public speaking, networking, social media, community partnerships, fundraising, and more.

Nancy also received a Micro-Grant of $1000 to support her community engagement project.

Testimonial from Nancy:

The opportunity to represent the Talloires Network at the Get Engaged Conference was a truly meaningful experience. Engaging with university student leaders from across the OSUN network reinforced how deeply we all care about improving the lives of others and, more importantly, how we are actively taking steps to make a difference, regardless of where we are in the world. It was evident that young people globally are bold and united by a shared commitment to creating positive change in their communities.

A standout moment for me was during the closing ceremony when Chaya Huber, the program coordinator, dedicated a quote to me on stage. She referenced an inspiring quote from Jonathan Becker, Vice Chancellor of OSUN and Director of Bard College’s Center for Civic Engagement, highlighting how I embody the sense of civic engagement—through consistent, purposeful community engagement and leading from the heart. This has been an unforgettable affirmation of the work I am deeply passionate about, particularly my work with the Magnificent Smiles Foundation (MSmiles), where I collaborate with other young people, generous individuals, and organizations to empower children and teenagers from challenging backgrounds in Ghana through education, psychosocial support, and leadership programs, with an emphasis on mentorship.

I am also grateful to OSUN for the $1000 microgrant, which will go toward supporting our leadership program for the children we serve. Thank you to OSUN and the Talloires Network for believing in the power of young people.