The conversation involves an interview between Miriam and a second-year MBA student, Mary, discussing her experiences, aspirations, and connections to non-profits.
Mary expresses appreciation for Miriam's guidance in her academic journey.
Mary’s Background
Student Status: Mary is a second-year MBA student.
Origin: She is originally from Kuwait and completed high school there.
Connection to PSU:
Her sister attended Portland State University (PSU), which influenced Mary to attend.
Mary visited PSU before deciding to apply and felt a sense of belonging.
Educational Background:
Mary's sister studied biology.
Cultural Integration: Mary mentions how her experience at PSU has broadened her perspective and allowed her to connect with people from various countries.
Career Aspirations
Future Plans:
Mary plans to return to Kuwait after graduation but is considering applying for PhD programs in the US or UK.
She holds a degree in biochemistry and is undecided between continuing her studies in chemistry or management.
Mary expresses a desire to study management, possibly at NYU.
Concerns:
Mary discusses potential challenges regarding her studies and her parents' concerns about her safety.
She notes the emotional stress of uncertainty during these times.
Involvement in Nonprofits
Personal Motivation:
Mary is drawn to nonprofit work due to personal fulfillment and the desire to help the community.
She has a history of volunteering and has been involved in starting family organizations that help others.
Miriam’s Experience:
Miriam shares her experience of engaging in volunteer work immediately after college and its importance in her life.
She highlights the interesting connections formed through volunteering, contrasting this with her day job experiences.
Discussion on a Specific Nonprofit (Shula of Rwanda)
Background:
Miriam got involved with Shula of Rwanda after meeting Alexis at a conference held by Opportunity Collaboration, which focuses on social change through business connections.
Organization Focus:
Alexis is described as a magnetic personality with an impressive background who leads Shula of Rwanda.
The organization targets social challenges such as poverty and human rights.
Mission and Beneficiaries
Beneficiaries:
Primarily the organization serves children from broken families, focusing on supporting those with single parents.
The goal is to create an ecosystem that supports children's education.
Additional support is provided to families experiencing trauma, particularly related to the Rwandan genocide.
Defined Success:
Success for the organization is measured by the progression of children through educational levels: primary to secondary and beyond to college.
Miriam mentions connections being made for students to pursue medical education.
Challenges Faced by the Organization
Funding Issues:
Financial stability is a critical issue faced by Shula of Rwanda, with Alexis needing to secure more funding for growth.
Scaling Challenges:
Expanding organizational capacity requires strong processes, systems, and people.
Building a competent board of directors is seen as essential for supporting growth and fundraising efforts.
Strategic Goals
Current Goals:
Alexis's primary goal is to build a new school on a recently acquired property, aiming to house a primary school program for children, targeting to serve 400 students.
Strategic Planning:
There is an acknowledgment of the need for a formal strategic plan to guide the organization's growth systematically.
Future Aspirations
Mary's Aspirations:
Mary expresses a desire to participate in social entrepreneurship, highlighting the importance of effective leadership and strategic resource planning in achieving organizational goals.
She is encouraged to explore opportunities for engaging with social entrepreneurial networks to aid in her aspirations.
Resources and Networking
Recommendations Given to Mary:
MIT Solve: An accelerator for social entrepreneurs that provides financial and technical support.
Opportunity Collaboration: A global networking opportunity for social entrepreneurs that could offer valuable connections and mentorship.
Importance of Networking: Miriam emphasizes the value of meeting diverse individuals outside one’s immediate environment to advance one’s goals.
Conclusion
Final Thoughts:
The conversation concludes with encouragement for continued exploration and passion for contributing positively to the community through non-profit efforts.
Reflection on Challenges:
Both agree on the necessity of the right resources and connections in achieving their goals in the future.