Sachs Scholars Participate in University of Bristol Arts, Activism and Social Justice Summer School

August, 2022 – This Summer, six Sachs Scholars traveled to England to join scholars from the Fulbright Commission and other international students from the UK and around the world to participate in the University of Bristol’s “Arts, activism and social justice summer school”. Ganete Alemseged, Gbemisola Akala, Kereine Ngoungui-Malemba, Nyankat Doldol, Sabrene Mechergui and Sophie Teitler were selected to participate in the three-week program to study themes such as racism, social justice, and colonialism across multiple continents.

Talking to the scholars, there were a few favorite aspects amongst everyone. The friendships that people made during the trip had a lasting impact. When asked about what aspects of the course were most valuable, Sophie stated, “I was reminded about the value of human connection and listening to one another in order to get to know someone well.” Another scholar, Ganete expanded on how close the students became over the course of two weeks. “By the end, it felt like a family. People were crying when they had to go their separate ways.” Another important takeaway for scholars was personal growth. Kereine talked about the personal growth she experienced while in Bristol.

“One thing I took away from an instructor that I hope to never forget is to not work for just money. Money will come and go, but I choose to live a life that will be fruitful and help others in the process. I don’t want to spend my life chasing money and lose what really matters, people, experiences, and fulfillment. I am working on being productive and not shying away from my gifts.”

While friendships are valuable, our scholars also expanded on their biggest lessons. From feeling more aware of entering spaces and the history that lies there to rethinking the definition of activism, students learned more about themselves and their abilities to help others. When asked about her key takeaways from her trip, Nyankat said, “…To be a voice because I’m blessed with one, and no matter what I do, make sure I walk in the light of the voiceless.” Ganete also offered insight and talked about her new definition of activism.

“There was a guy who came and talked about ourselves and activism. We have to be better for ourselves to help our community. I’m always putting others first but sometimes it’s too much on me. I’ve learned it’s important to let me cool down so I can be a better leader. It was a refresh at the perfect moment. I can now say ‘my body needs this if I want to go out a be a great activist.’”

Similar to Ganete, Sabrene talked about connecting her life to the program. “Through this course, I was able to find the connection between history, self-reflection, and social justice. You can only start making a difference in your community once you’re comfortable in your own skin.”

The scholars also were intrigued by seeing social activism in the UK and learning that concepts that are usually thought to be US based are indeed global. Kereine gave us insight on what she learned in her courses.

“We learned about social justice in the form of how society kept statues of slave owners, and how there is still strife over keeping those statues. It’s shocking because you would think that there wouldn’t be people with that type of mindset who are determined to fight for statues of racist slave owners. It showed me that every country has its own social activism to do.”

Gbemisola also deepened her understanding of history during take a the program. “Another key way was the importance of knowing the full story. History is very whitewashed. I have made it a personal goal to ensure my consumption of knowledge is accurate.”

While all six students valued different parts of the course, there was one question that had a common answer. When asked if they would recommend other Sachs Scholars to participate in this course, the answer was an overwhelming yes! In the words of Nyankat, “YES YES YES YES YES A THOUSAND TIMES YES.” And if one scholar wasn’t enough, Kereine says, “GO FOR IT. DO NOT HESITATE!!” (She also mentioned it being the best three weeks of your life.)

We are so proud of our scholars and the work they do to grow as leaders, students, and activists within their community. We hope that their experience encourages other people to step out of their comfort zone and look for similar opportunities in the future.