In my transformative two summers with Laidlaw I have learnt a huge amount about ethical leadership in a global landscape. Lessons on being a global citizenship have shaped my perspective and will continue to guide my actions in the future.

My journey started with my research project on music score image registration which taught me great research skills and independence as well as crucial knowledge on image manipulation for my second summer's work. Undertaking research helped me forster the mindset of a global citizen who seeks to contribute meaningfully to the world. My work with the OECD for my LiA was a huge experience for me in terms of leadership. As international organisation it taught me a lot about working on a global scale, and with our focus on natural disasters in Southeast Asia, it showed me how important it was to train leaders who champion equity and support vulnerable communities.

Additionally, the scholarship retreat brought me closer to fellow scholars, emphasising the importance of global citizenship and collaboration. We shared experiences, learned from one another, and have forged connections that extend far beyond the confines of our program.

Throughout the program, ethical leadership has been a guiding principle. By understanding the responsibility we bear as individuals, we can make choices that benefit society at large. Ethical leadership is a commitment to being a role model, embodying the values we believe in, and advocating for positive change.

To me, being a global citizen means embracing the rich tapestry of our world. It involves understanding that our actions have a far-reaching impact and cultivating empathy for those in diverse corners of the globe. We must recognise the challenges faced by others and find the most effective ways to create tangible change and help those who need it the most.

Looking ahead, my commitment is to sustain the lessons learned on this journey. I want to take the skills I've learnt and hopefully apply them to support those communities most at risk from climate-change induced hazards. I want to participate in a global community to make change where it is needed the most.

This scholarship journey has shown me how to be a global citizen and advocate for ethical leadership. The experiences, relationships, and principles learned will serve as a foundation not just for my career but for my everyday life. I believe that we can shape a more resilient and compassionate world, and hope to play an active part in it in the future.