Inspiring Learner with a Mission to Mentor Boris Delgadillo Romero ’23

Scholar from Bolivia

My UWCSEA experience has been an emotional and academic rollercoaster that has left an indelible mark on me. One of the biggest challenges was the language barrier when I first arrived. It was very difficult for me to understand what others were saying, and I often couldn’t express myself in English. I decided to keep going, and my friends, peers, mentors, and teachers all supported me. It was a beautiful moment when I realised that I could finally listen in English and understand what was being said to me. I cried tears of joy!

One of my favourite classes was IB English as the class helped me overcome my language challenges in a fun and welcoming atmosphere. I was also grateful to participate in activities that reconnected me with my passion for art and creativity like animation, digital art, and film clubs. My community service at the SGM Murni Child Care Center was also a rewarding and memorable experience. It taught me the value of giving my time and effort to help others, and seeing the children’s smiles made my day many times.

One of the best feelings I have had is being able to offer help to those who have gone through the same situation as me. I have worked hard to help create an environment where everyone feels safe and appreciated. I also made a sincere friendship with another student from India. He was a key player in helping me learn English, and despite language and cultural differences, we found a way to understand each other and built a strong friendship. It has shown me that nationality, race, or ethnicity do not matter when there is a real connection between people.

My two years at UWCSEA have been invaluable, and I am eager to share all that I have learned when I return to my country. I want to help many other young people to be part of this movement and unite the world in ways that transcend cultural barriers. Next year I head to the United States for university where I will study computing and film. I also plan to develop mentoring and support groups for young people, which I hope to expand throughout my home country. Thank you for investing in my education and my future. I will be eternally grateful and will always remember this generosity.

Growing Leader, Future Changemaker

Patricia Segeja ’23

Scholar from Tanzania

UWCSEA has helped shape my character and broadened my worldview. I have made long-lasting friendships with students from all over the world, and these friendships have opened my eyes to different cultures and ways of life. UWCSEA’s rigorous academic curriculum also challenged me to think critically and approach problems from different angles, making me a more analytical and creative thinker. The focus on service and leadership taught me the importance of giving back to the community and taking on responsibility.

One of the most meaningful experiences was my involvement in planning the 2022 TEDX event as the Chair of the Speakers Committee. This role taught me valuable skills in event planning, public speaking, and leadership. Volunteering and participating in Culturama as a dance leader and plaza show coordinator also allowed me to learn more about other cultures in-depth. As an East African student, I have also tried to promote awareness and appreciation for the culture and traditions of my home country, especially through my friendships. My friendships have taught me the importance of building relationships with people from different backgrounds, and how it enriches one’s life and perspectives.

I believe that the UWCSEA experience has equipped me with the knowledge, skills, and perspective necessary to make a difference in my home country. I dream of becoming a successful leader with the means, influence, and power to bring about meaningful change in Tanzania. Through my experiences at UWCSEA, I have learned the value of teamwork, communication, and critical thinking - skills that will undoubtedly help me achieve my goals.

I cannot express enough my gratitude towards those who supported my scholarship. In my own language, I would like to say “Asante sana”, which means thank you very much. This experience has had a profound impact on me. Thank you again for believing in me and for giving me the chance to pursue my dreams.

Resilient Peacemaker, UWC Mission Champion

Sofija Gribovski ’23

Scholar from Macedonia

UWCSEA became my second home, my second UWC. Due to COVID regulations, I was unable to stay for a full two years at UWC Changshu China. When I finally learned I could transfer to UWCSEA, I was truly grateful.

My initial difficulties at UWCSEA are perhaps obvious: catching up with course content, meeting teachers, and making brand new friends while juggling university applications. My motivation and gratitude for a second chance at UWC pushed me to establish myself as a worthy member of the community. I was able to make friends with fellow scholars as well as day students, and provide new perspectives in many classes. For example, my exposure to Eastern/Chinese philosophy at UWC Changshu helped me share my own experiences from China. I was also a philosophy tutor for my boarding house peers, and participated in the ‘Write for Rights’ campaign where I fought some major injustices in the world today. This summer I will go back to Macedonia and volunteer with my UWC National Committee. The UWC system, national committee and connections I have made are irreplaceable, and I would love to provide these opportunities for others in my home country. Macedonia is a country with a troubled past, and the Balkan region is one of high tension, but at UWCSEA I was able to meet my Balkan neighbours and love them as a family. I hope in some way to push that family feeling onto a larger scale. Next year, I head to the USA on a Davis Scholarship where I will study international politics, linguistics, and education. My dream is to work in translation or diplomacy for an international organisation like the United Nations. Thank you for supporting me and giving this stranded student a second chance at UWC, and a chance of witnessing the beauty of Singapore and Southeast Asia. I’m immensely grateful for the support I received both from UWCSEA and UWC Changshu and I will always remain grateful.