By Tahira Sheriff
In a world brimming with challenges, the power of unity, collaboration, and shared purpose shines ever more brightly. Such is the saga of my journey through the Professional Fellowship Exchange Program organized by the US Department of State.
Over five weeks, I figured among 20 exceptional fellows from Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan who embarked on a journey in the United States that redefined the boundaries of possibility, fostering collaboration, innovation, and the exchange of ideas.
At the heart of this expedition lay an economic empowerment-focused program, nurtured by the Gaylord College of Journalism and Mass Communications at the University of Oklahoma. This initiative exemplified the potential of cross-cultural exchange and collaboration, facilitated by the support of the US Embassy of Sri Lanka.
At the core of this journey stood the Alengko Foundation, our vision devoted to extending emergency relief and enhancing livelihoods in rural Sri Lankan communities. Fueled by a passion for social work, my selection for this program aimed to broaden my perspective, uncover novel avenues of growth, and amplify and share the resounding impact story of my foundation.
Envisioning an endeavor of this magnitude required the guidance and dedication of exceptional mentors. Elanie Steyn, of the Gaylord College of Journalism and Mass Communications at the University of Oklahoma, and Jeff Moore, the Executive Director of the Ronnie K. Irani Center for the Creation of Economic Wealth, curated an experience that would forever shape my journey.
Their strategic placement led me to a partnership that felt serendipitous – Tulsa Area United Way. Here, guided by the insights of Brent Sadler, Vice President of Community Investments, the intricacies of non-profit operations and fundraising unfurled before me like a captivating narrative.
The resounding importance of selfless collaboration echoed through interactions with esteemed organizations like Good Will, Food Bank, the YWCA, and grassroots initiatives such as Iron Gate, Sand Springs Community Center, The Center, Tulsa Day Center, Women in Recovery, Just Hope, and so on: the list never seems to end.
Every step on this path was fortified by the generosity of hearts and minds. Alison Anthony, the President and CEO of Tulsa Area United Way, alongside Brent Sadler epitomized this spirit by opening the doors of Tulsa Area United Way to fellows like me for many years and sharing wisdom that transcended mere networking. Rather, it was a celebration of shared aspirations and a collective determination to ignite positive change within communities.
While my experience exceeded my expectations, some fellows faced differing circumstances. Their anticipated hosts did not always align with their professional criteria, leading to mixed expectations. In such situations, it’s crucial to embrace the broader essence of fellowships.
These experiences are designed to promote cross-cultural appreciation, immersing ourselves in one another’s values and traditions, and fostering connections that nurture not only our professional paths but also our souls. While a valuable host is an asset, the program’s core value lies beyond.
Unlike many other exchange programs, I was fortunate to both work and live closely with my hosts and fellow participants. This proximity not only fostered comfort but also allowed for a deeper connection with their cultures and traditions. The assurance of 19 likeminded souls to share the American chapter of my journey proved invaluable, enriching my experience beyond measure.
What began as an opportunity to enhance my nonprofit foundation evolved into something far more profound. Beyond the technical skills acquired and the expertise exchanged, the essence of this experience lay in the bonds woven within our diverse cohort. Each day of learning, discovery, and growth transformed strangers into family.
This program showcased the power of cross-cultural exchange and collaboration. For instance, my counterparts from India and Pakistan, once divided by stigmas and misconceptions, departed as close friends who celebrated each other’s nations and beliefs.
The barriers of generations were shattered by shared experiences, opening hearts and minds to new perspectives. Elanie Steyn’s promise of a unique experience became an understatement, as the bonds within our diverse group transformed us into a family.
As our journey converged with 172 fellows from 49 countries in a culminating week-long conference hosted by the US State Department in Washington, the magnitude of our shared journey was unmistakable. The camaraderie among the 20 of us, combined with the Oklahoma family we had built up, was to say the least palpable.
As our time culminated in Washington, the realization hit that the connections we forged transcended borders. Goodbyes were laden with a bittersweet sadness, knowing that the void left in our hearts was a testament to the depth of our newfound relationships.
Woven by shared values, beliefs, and aspirations to effect positive change in our respective nations united us, making it clear that we were not just fellows, but kindred spirits united by a common mission.
In retrospect, the Professional Fellowship Exchange Program transcended mere professional development. It bestowed upon us a tapestry of alliances that were committed to sculpting a brighter future. As I return to my work at the Alengko Foundation, I carry with me the lessons, memories, and friendships forged during those five remarkable weeks.
This program serves as a perpetual reminder that the most enduring change is forged through collaboration that transcends borders. Our shared odyssey extended far beyond networking – it rekindled my motivation, renewed my inspiration, and fortified my resolve to be the change I yearn to witness in this world.
As we each return to our corners of the globe, we do so armed with an unbreakable bond and a shared dream of a better tomorrow. The program’s impact will always remind me that collaboration knows no boundaries and that change is best achieved when we stand together.
Tahira Sheriff is the cofounder of Alengko Foundation in Sri Lanka. With a background in organizations like the United Nations and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, she founded the Alengko Foundation with the vision of fostering transformation and positivity among marginalized communities in rural Sri Lanka. Her belief in the power of kindness as a catalyst for change is a driving force in her work, her books, and her daily life.
Factum is an Asia Pacific-focused think tank on International Relations, Tech Cooperation, and Strategic Communications accessible via www.factum.lk.
The views expressed here are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect the organization’s.
